The following comes from the Renewable Newstead website. Their launch is today, 2nd December.

Solar photovoltaic (PV) prize marks Newstead’s energy project launch

One lucky Newstead district householder will win a solar-powered energy-generating system, worth almost $3000, when the town’s new major energy project is launched on December 2.

The 1.5kW solar photovoltaic system is the prize in a draw open to those who register before then or at the launch to have their homes assessed for energy efficiency by the town’s new community engagement officer, Jayson Burhop.

The prize has been donated by Central Victoria Solar City to mark the town’s official launch of Renewable Newstead, Taking Charge of Local Energy.

Aimed at helping households and businesses cut their energy bills, Renewable Newstead, will also examine the feasibility of running the town on renewable energy.

Geoff Park, who has been working on the project with a team of Newstead residents, said the launch will formalise the project. Geoff welcomed everyone in Newstead and the surrounding district to attend.

“At the launch we’ll explain the project and how we’ll firstly encourage people to cut their power bills and also the next steps involved in looking at whether it’s feasible to have the town run on renewable energy. We’ll show a short film featuring Newstead households talking about their power bills. Jayson will also explain what he does when he assesses houses for energy efficiency, the survey that follows and how this is a vital part of our project. Jayson’s goal is to complete energy assessments on 200 homes in the next 12 months. We’ll also draw the prize for the solar PV system and announce details of a Dec 8 bus trip to a solar park which is open to everybody. Importantly we’ll also ask those present to endorse the appointment of a steering committee to guide the project. We welcome all Newstead home owners, renters, business people and interested parties to come along.”

The evening, to run from 6-8pm at the Newstead Community Centre, will include supper and children’s entertainment.

For further details about the launch or the project, check http://renewable.newstead.vic.au or contact Geoff Park, ph 0418 138632

To enter the draw for the prize 1.5kW solar PV system (excl.installation costs), register to have a home energy assessment with Jayson Burhop, ph 5476 2275 or 0467 519001 or email Jayson at newstead@centralvictoriasolarcity.com.au.

To be in the running to win the solar PV system, you must have registered for a home energy assessment before Dec 2 or at the launch that night. Home-owners, renters and businesses are eligible to register.