The City of Greater Dandenong is taking a bold step towards a greener future with the installation of a state-of-the-art heating and cooling system at the new Keysborough South Community Hub.
Due to open later this year, the Hub will feature cutting-edge climate control technology that significantly reduces its environmental impact.
At the heart of this innovation is a high-efficiency air-cooled propane (R290) heat pump that will provide centralised heating and cooling. This pioneering system is believed to be among the first of its kind in Australia.
The Hub will utilise CO2 heat pumps for domestic hot water replacing traditional natural gas-powered systems. By opting for natural refrigerants like propane and CO2 instead of conventional high-GWP synthetic refrigerants, the facility will lower its global warming potential (GWP) from around 1500 to only three.
Mayor of the City of Greater Dandenong, Cr Jim Memeti said the installation was a major milestone in Council’s sustainability journey.
“This is a game-changer for our city.
“The Keysborough South Community Hub is set to be a leading example of how we can create buildings that are energy-efficient, environmentally responsible and future-focused. Our community told us they wanted an innovative and sustainable facility and we’re delivering on that vision.”
The initiative aligns with the City of Greater Dandenong’s goal to be one of Australia’s most sustainable cities by 2030. Council hopes this project will inspire other municipalities and industries to follow suit.
Sustainability has been built into every aspect of the Hub’s design. Other recent milestones include the installation of 260 solar panels, 60,000 litres of rainwater storage for on-site reuse and a vast 100,000-litre underground stormwater system beneath the car park to regulate drainage and protect the local environment.
Once completed in 2025 the Keysborough South Community Hub will provide high-quality services, programs and meeting spaces for the community – offering not just a place to gather, but a model for sustainability in the built environment.
For more information visit our Keysborough South Community Hub webpage.
