With its rich industrial heritage, infrastructure and skilled workers, the Hunter region is poised to unlock the environmental and economic benefits of the net zero transformation. The key to this opportunity will be the decarbonisation of existing industry: replacing traditional energy systems with renewables to reduce both emissions and costs.
The Net Zero Economy Authority is committed to championing the hard work of businesses, individuals and communities contributing to the net zero economy in our priority regions. The work of Hunter Water(Opens in a new tab/window) is an example of one of many organisations playing a role in setting the region up for success as it transitions.
A more sustainable future
As the operator of major infrastructure in the region, Hunter Water has a central role to play in this decarbonisation challenge. The state-owned corporation, which provides drinking water, wastewater and recycled water services to more than 600,000 people in homes and businesses across the Lower Hunter, has set a carbon reduction target of net zero emissions by 2035.
For an operation that has historically relied on emissions-intensive energy, there are clear imperatives for the move to net zero.
“Our operations emit around 70,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year, and fossil fuel-based energy consumption represents 70% of our carbon footprint,” says Managing Director Darren Cleary.
To reduce its emissions, the corporation – first established in 1892 as the Hunter District Water Supply and Sewerage Board – recently invested more than $15 million as part of its Onsite Renewable Energy Program, with renewable energy systems now in operation at 15 sites across its network.
“Electricity is one of our major expenses, accounting for up to 10% of our operating costs,” says Mr Cleary.
“Generating electricity from solar energy is one of a number of opportunities that can help reduce these costs and carbon emissions.”
The Onsite Renewable Energy Program is just one part of Hunter Water’s journey towards net zero. The corporation’s multiple initiatives include:
- reducing operational energy consumption through energy-efficient pumping and aeration systems
- small scale hydro generation
- investigating a more sustainable, lower-emissions fleet of vehicles
- exploring the option of generating electricity from biosolids and using this renewable energy source to help power treatment plants
- supporting the ARC Training Centre for Transformation of Australia’s Biosolids Resource
- purchasing electricity from renewable energy sources.
A region focused on its people
For Hunter Water, it is crucial that its phased move to net zero has the backing of local communities.
“The people of the Lower Hunter have told us that reducing our carbon emissions is important to them,” says Mr Cleary.
“Hunter Water is the trusted provider of high-quality water and wastewater services for our community. We are creating a sustainable water future for all, and we offer a diverse range of career opportunities, including engineering and technical jobs, trade positions, and a variety of professional services and leadership roles.”
Find out more about what is happening in the Hunter and how the Authority is supporting the transition at Community transition plans.