Zero Emission Neighbourhoods (ZEN) is a $6 million Victorian Government funding grant program, designed to shape the future of sustainable residential development in Victoria.
Zero Emission Neighbourhoods will showcase innovative water, waste, transport and energy solutions, such as local renewable energy supply, sustainable master planning and design, onsite recycled water and smart meters to help manage energy usage.
Four to six zero emission communities will be developed over four years. Zero Emission Neighbourhoods is supported by the Victorian Government Sustainability Fund, managed by Sustainability Victoria.
Zero Emission Neighbourhoods Funding availability
Funding of $6 million has been committed to the program over four years to support the development of four to six prototype zero emissions communities. Out of the total funding,
- $5 million has been allocated to capital funding for infrastructure projects
- $0.3 million to scoping projects, feasibility studies and business cases
- $0.2 million to independent research (Research Stream).
Sustainability Victoria is accepting Zero Emission Neighbourhoods proposals from project proponents from 17 June 2009. There is no indication of a closing date at this stage.
Firstly, you should contact Sustainability Victoria to discuss the initial Zero Emission Neighbourhoods project proposal.Sustainability Victoria will then assist you in determining whether your project may be considered for funding under the Zero Emission Neighbourhoods program. We encourage developers, councils and all interested parties to approach us with project proposals.
If your project is aligned with the aims of the Zero Emission Neighbourhoods program, we will support you in setting up an Opportunity Assessment Workshop (with Sustainability Victoria and relevant local stakeholders). The aim of the Workshop is to bring together key stakeholders, exchange and brainstorm ideas, identify potential barriers, opportunities, and next steps forward.
The diagram below provides an overview on how Zero Emission Neighbourhoods project proponents can get involved in the program:
If you would like assistance with this grant then please feel free to contact us.