The Liberal Nationals Government is supporting community groups across Cowper to help them increase energy efficiency and reduce emissions, with $66,663 awarded across eight projects in the electorate.

The grants from the Powering Communities Program will enable the not-for-profit groups to cut their power bills and carbon emissions while supporting local jobs.

Announcing the grant outcomes today, Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said that lowering the energy costs of community groups would have positive effects both locally and nationally.

“This funding of between $5,000 and $12,000 to community groups from all the 151 federal electorates of Australia will allow them to spend more on their essential activities,” Minister Taylor said.

“At the same time as these groups are providing increased assistance to their local communities, they will be playing a part in our national efforts to reduce emissions.

“Local jobs will be created through the energy-efficiency measures undertaken by the successful funding applicants under the program.

“These include installing solar panels or a battery, replacing lighting with LEDs, conducting an energy audit and upgrading air conditioners, hot water systems or a refrigerator with more efficient models.”

Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said this would help local community groups reduce their power bills and emissions while also supporting local jobs.

“We know that travel expenses and energy bills are often one of the biggest overheads for volunteer organisations, so I’m certain that these grants will be a welcome boost,” Mr Conaghan said.

“Groups like The Kempsey Showground Association, Telegraph Point Community Association and Coffs Harbour Creative Arts group are the lifeblood of our community. The more they can save on running costs, the more they can spend to support the people of the Mid North Coast.”

The eight successful grant applications in Cowper are: