Yarra wins Energy Efficiency Council award for Climate Safe Rooms pilot

Yarra City Council is proud to announce that we have received an Energy Efficiency Council Award in the Energy Management Government Program Leadership Award category for our Climate Safe Rooms and Yarra Home Energy Upgrades pilot programs. 

The Energy Efficiency Council Awards are Australia's highest profile honours dedicated to excellence in energy efficiency, electrification and demand flexibility. 

In 2024–25 these two pilot programs supported 54 low-income and at-risk households through 174 subsidised energy upgrade activities, such as solar, reverse cycle heating and cooling, insulation and draughtproofing. 

The upgrades supported concession card holders with intersecting health, welfare and support needs to improve thermal comfort, climate resilience and energy efficiency, while helping residents better manage energy bills and extreme weather.

These programs were designed to reach people often left behind by mainstream upgrade programs, including renters, apartment residents, community housing tenants and people experiencing financial hardship. By combining financial subsidies and tailored support, these programs helped residents overcome barriers and access the benefits of more comfortable, energy-efficient homes.

This recognition reflects Council’s commitment to climate justice and to creating a more climate-safe, sustainable and equitable Yarra. We thank our partners, delivery providers and participating residents for helping make these pilots a success. 

The Yarra Home Energy Upgrades program has continued to support over forty additional at-risk residents through 2025-26, and we look forward to its continuing success.