MASH (the campaign for More Australian Solar Homes) was one of six community groups and individuals from around the state to be recognised by Environment Victoria on Wednesday night for their outstanding contribution to protecting our state’s unique environment.
MASH “repowering central Victoria”
“The 2018 Community Environment Recognition Award recipients are all leaders in their communities,” said Mark Wakeham, CEO of Environment Victoria. “We wanted to recognise MASH for repowering central Victoria with over one thousand solar installations and for their dynamic community engagement,” said Mark.
Over 20,000 panels installed
MASH, the community solar bulk-buy for households in central Victoria, was launched in mid 2014 as an initiative of the Hub Foundation, founded by Neil and Heather Barrett and Mark Carter, with the first installations taking place in September 2014. Since then, MASH has taken orders for over 1,150 solar systems with around 20,000 panels installed.
MASH cuts emissions and bills
Around 8,400 tonnes of CO2 emissions are being cut each year by MASH households, equivalent to around 1700 fewer cars on the road. MASH households, as a group, are saving around $1M off their electricity bills each year. In addition, MASH is creating local jobs with three local installation companies currently working full-time on MASH installations, as well as around six local people working on a part-time or casual basis on project management and administration.
Over $70,000 raised for community groups and schools
“MASH has raised over $70,000 for free solar for community groups and schools since we started, said Jo Kaptein, manager of the MASH community solar bulk-buy. “We’re delighted to have been recognised by Environment Victoria. We couldn’t have achievement these results without the support of so many people and organisations. Thank you to everyone who’s been part of our story.”
MASH is in central Victoria – and extending to the Mallee
The MASH solar bulk-buy is available in the Mount Alexander Shire, Macedon Ranges Shire and City of Greater Bendigo. MASH’s sister bulk-buy – the Hepburn Solar Bulk-Buy – is available in the Hepburn Shire. MASH will shortly be launched in new regions across central Victoria starting with Swan Hill.
MASH is now hosted by the not-for-profit Central Victorian Greenhouse Alliance.
For more information about MASH and to request a quote, visit mash.org.au. Alternatively call 1300 466 274.
Notes:
The list of the six community groups and individuals recognised by Environment Victoria in their 2018 awards can be viewed here:
Local environmental leaders applauded at the 2018 Community Environment Awards