Greener Apartments Program

What is the Greener Apartments Program?

The Greener Apartments Program is a free Council initiative to assist apartment buildings and strata schemes to reduce their energy and water use and save money. By joining the program, you receive free, independent expert advice and support to help lower running costs and live in a building that operates more efficiently.

Council will work with buildings to identify opportunities to reduce:

  • Operating costs
  • Common area energy use
  • Gas use
  • Water use
  • Greenhouse gas emissions 


Why get involved?

Buildings will receive:

  • A free energy and water efficiency assessment performed by an industry specialist
  • Information on how to install electric vehicle charging stations, solar panels, and more
  • A detailed report clearly illustrating the financial case for upgrades, including rebates available
  • A free follow-up call and implementation support

Please note: To implement any sustainability upgrades in an apartment block, the Owners Corporation must pass a resolution. The 2020 Sustainability Infrastructure amendments to the NSW Strata Schemes Management Act requires that at least 50% of the votes cast (based upon unit entitlement) are supportive the resolution (i.e., at least 50% are not against the resolution).

Who should apply?

We are looking for all apartment buildings committed to reducing their energy and water use and saving on operating costs. We encourage applications from all style of buildings, from small blocks through to large blocks with high energy bills and large communal facilities such as pools, gyms and underground car parks.

How to apply

Complete the Greener Apartments Program application form

Project process:

1.      Interested residents submit the Greener Apartments Program application form.

2.      Council provides the Demonstration of Commitment document to the applicant, requiring the majority of Strata Committee members to agree to be part of the program.

3.      Council organises and funds the energy and water assessment conducted by an industry specialist.

4.      Building management or Strata Committee reviews energy and water saving options and determines potential implementation.

5.      Council may request feedback from participants to create case studies to support other buildings interested in energy and water efficiency upgrades.

Additional Resources

Resident shares Solar for Strata story

Hear from a local resident about how they increased the capital value of their apartments by getting solar.

Watch another video to see how a Lane Cove apartment is saving more than $1,800 a quarter in common area costs.

City Futures Research Centre – How to implement sustainable retrofits in your strata scheme from UNSW Built Environment.

How to make positive change around your apartment building - This brochure provides a brief overview of opportunities for sustainability upgrades available for apartment buildings and how to go about making these changes.

Australian Government - Guide to renovating or buying a sustainable apartment.

Alternative Technology Association - Renters guides to sustainability (Homes and apartments).

Facilities Management Association of Australia (FMA) Good Practice Guide for Facilities Managers  - helps Facilities Managers to maintain and sustain their buildings.

 

Back to top