Government agencies are being pressed to achieve the Government's goal of a 10 per cent cut in their energy consumption.
Fuel and Energy Minister Geoff Gallop said today that the Government's Energy Conservation Unit (ECU) was working with Energy Managers appointed by the various agencies to achieve this.
"The Government must cut its own use of energy to set an example for the private sector," Dr Gallop said.
"Total cost of Government consumption is around $90 million, excluding Transperth.
"The top 20 energy consuming agencies have been asked to develop performance indicators and report progress in their annual reports.
"Total consumption for the 1990/91 year will serve as the baseline and outcomes for the first full year of operation will be included in the Energy Policy and Planning Bureau's annual report for 1992."
To assist agencies in their task, the Government approved a $700,000 capital investment fund in March of this year. Funds advanced for energy audits and energy efficient equipment are repaid from savings generated.
"Some agencies have already made significant achievements or are planning energy saving programs," Dr Gallop said.
"The Ministry of Education has begun a Statewide program commencing with schools in the North-West where consumption is high.
"Savings of up to $1 million from schools in this area are anticipated.
"The Main Roads Department has installed automatic control systems on heating and cooling equipment that are returning savings of $3,000 per month.
"A pay-back period of two years was forecast for these control devices but this will likely be achieved within 18 months."
Dr Gallop said energy audits had been carried out by the Museum and Transperth and an audit was currently in progress at the Superdrome. Actions recommended by the auditors were expected to be implemented soon.
Many other agencies were also preparing for audits or retro-fitting investments.
An additional incentive to State and local government agencies was an awards scheme with a $40,000 prize pool provided by the Energy Conservation Unit and the Renewable Energy Advisory Council.
