A project that will inform decisions about how urban planners and home owners can make the most of opportunities to use solar power has been launched by Federal Minister for Urban Infrastructure and Cities, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP.
In addition to the Australian Government's contribution of $430,000, the Australian PV Institute, University of New South Wales and nine councils will also contribute a total of $462,000 towards delivering the project.
"The Energy Data for Smart Decision Making project will combine mapping with data on solar exposure, energy generation and consumption from precincts across Australia into an open modelling platform," Mr Fletcher said.
"Being developed under the Australian Government's Smart Cities and Suburbs Program, the platform will benefit end users by allowing them to calculate their solar power potential and make informed decisions on investment in solar power generation.
"This project is an example of how the program encourages collaboration between local governments, research organisations and the private sector to deliver a solution that can be applied locally and shared around the country."
Minister Fletcher said the Australian Government’s $50 million Smart Cities and Suburbs Program has already seen $27.7 million allocated to 49 projects, with the second round of funding set to deliver further innovative smart technology solutions to urban challenges.
"I am looking forward to opening the next round of the program soon and encourage local councils to propose collaborative smart city projects that will improve the liveability, productivity and sustainability of our cities, suburbs and towns."
For more information about the Smart Cities and Suburbs Program click here.