THE Southern Gateway Centre at Bulli Tops will benefit from an announcement by the Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Greg Combet today.

The Minister has announced over $42 million in grants to improve energy efficiency across community buildings and facilities.

Improving energy efficiency is a central element of the Federal Government’s Clean Energy Future plan, to help boost productivity in our economy and move Australia towards a low- carbon future.

“The 63 successful round one recipients of the Community Energy Efficiency Program will co-fund projects to improve energy efficiency in community buildings such as museums, indoor sports and aquatic centres, art galleries and libraries,” Mr Combet said.

“A program like this, which will enable local government and community groups to improve energy efficiency, is made possible by the carbon price.”

Mr Combet congratulated the Community Energy Efficiency Program recipients during a visit to Brisbane today.

Wollongong City Council will receive $150,000 towards a $300,000 an efficient lighting retrofit project for the Southern Gateway Centre. The funding will allow an upgrade of internal and outdoor lighting in the Southern Gateway Centre at the summit of Bulli Pass.

Applications were assessed by an independent committee on the potential to improve energy efficiency, encourage and demonstrate energy management, value for money, project management and design.

The $200 million Community Energy Efficiency Program has multiple rounds. An announcement on round two will be made later this year.