Canberra Stadium 'going green'

Canberra Stadium will go green next year as part of the government's response to climate change.

"Energy generation technology capable of generating up to 55 kW of emissions-free energy will be installed at the stadium, showcasing the potential of these technologies to the hundreds of thousands of Canberrans who frequent the venue over the course of the year and setting an example to other large venues around town," ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope said.

The stadium's system will be capable of producing 220,000 hours of electricity from 4000 daylight hours a year.

"Emissions from energy use make up about 70% of ACT greenhouse gas emissions. Placing renewable energy generators at prominent ACT locations will highlight the government's support for renewable energy and help the community understand the potential for cleaner and greener generation in their own backyards and in their own lives," said Stanhope.

"Weathering the Change - the ACT's Climate Change Strategy 2007-2025 - earmarked $1 million for the installation and showcasing of progressive and innovative renewable energy technologies around the city.

"This installation, the first to be funded from the $1 million, will consist of three wind towers and about 200 photovoltaic panels. The final cost of the investment is yet to be determined and more details will be made available early next year.

"Placed on the existing eastern and western grandstands, the facilities are expected to generate enough clean power to run the stadium floodlights and reduce the overall energy needs of the complex by about 18%," he said.