Setting Moore of an example

Sustainability consultant Michael Mobbs says he is surprised to hear Clover Moore is building a garage with two air conditioners.

Mr Mobbs, who has consulted with the City of Sydney on environmental projects, said there were better options for cooling the Lord Mayor’s property.

He said a good design should negate the need for air conditioners.

“[With] a good design … you can get a five to ten degree reduction inside the house,” he said.

“If you insulate the roof and the walls, you shouldn’t in Sydney need an air conditioner … you’ve got to have some good insulation, combined with skylights, and some blinds and some bushes to keep the sun off the western wall.”

Mr Mobbs said two air conditions would be the equivalent of having two cars.

“To offset that with green power would take quite a bit,” he said.

“So if Clover’s putting in two air conditioners … there must be a reason for that, I’m very surprised to hear it.”

The Lord Mayor’s plans were brought to light by the Nichols Street Community Group in Surry Hills.

Group spokesperson Brian Noad said Cr Moore should be setting a sustainability example.

“It includes two air conditioning condensers – the residents thought that given her high profile it would be appropriate for her to use skylights or try get solar panels,” he said.

“I have nothing personally against her at all … but the residents believe that she should set an example.”

A spokesperson for the Lord Mayor said the property had extensive green cover including many street trees to help with cooling and act as a carbon sink.

“The air-conditioning units replace old inefficient models, with 100 percent green power purchased,” the spokesperson said.

“The Lord Mayor [also] has a rain water tank to water the garden, with water efficient showerheads and taps.”