The project, which was completed late last year, was made possible through the support of a $4,470 grant from the NSW Government’s Climate Change Fund.

The hot water system is part of the Community Savers stream of the State Government’s Climate Change Fund to help community organisations save water, power, carbon pollution and money on bills.

The project will help Cuddlepie save more than five tonnes of carbon pollution a year.

“With this funding, we are really making a difference in our community,” Cuddlepie spokesperson Tony Pike said.

“Not only are we saving energy, we are saving money on our bills and are able to show to the wider community how they can save energy as well”.

Last year Cuddlepie were able to install water saving devices and a new tank using a Federal Community Water Grant. The centre also refurbished its outdoor play space with the eco-friendly theme of native gardens and bush rocks.

“As a community based education centre, we have a commitment to doing whatever we can to protect our environment, and leading the children by example,” Tony said.

The Cuddlepie Early Childhood Learning Centre project was one of 247 to receive a share of $5.9 million under the NSW Climate Change Fund Public Facilities Program Community Savers stream.

Together they will save 125 million litres of water and 4560 tonnes of carbon pollution a year.

For more information about funding and ways to save water and energy around the home and community, visit the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW) website at www.environment.nsw.gov.au or call the Environment Line on 1300 361 967.