Travelling by public transport in Melbourne has become even better for the environment following the unveiling of Victoria’s first ‘wind powered’ tram.
In partnership with renewable energy company Pacific Hydro and the Brumby Government, Yarra Trams has secured green electricity from Victorian wind farms to power the tram.
Public Transport Minister Lynne Kosky commended Yarra Trams on their commitment to renewable energy.
“Using any public transport is a great way for people to do their bit for the environment and reduce congestion on our roads,” Ms Kosky said.
“Now Melburnians can feel even better about doing their bit for the environment when they use this tram.
“Now Melburnians can feel even better about doing their bit for the environment when they use this tram."
“Every time a passenger hops aboard they will be reminded of the benefits of renewable energy and their role in helping the environment.”
Ms Kosky said the Brumby Government is investing in public transport to make it even more environmentally friendly.
“We were the first state to introduce a new standard of Euro 4 Clean Diesel buses and Melbourne will be first city in Australia to trial a hybrid electric bus this year,” she said.
The Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Gavin Jennings, said making greater use of renewable energy is an important part of meeting the challenges posed by global warming.
“It’s great to see Yarra Trams leading by example and making the switch to GreenPower,” Mr Jennings said.
“Victoria leads Australia in the take-up of renewable energy, with 265,000 Victorian households and businesses now buying GreenPower.
“The Brumby Government currently buys more than 10 per cent GreenPower, and this will increase to 25 per cent by 2010.
“We are determined to increase the proportion of our electricity supplied through renewable resources from four per cent to 10 per cent by 2016 – we’re working to make this happen through our Victorian Renewable Energy Target.”
The wind tram will be in service between St Kilda Beach and East Brunswick and can carry 180 people removing the equivalent of 150 cars off the road.