The Andrews Labor Government is supporting community-owned renewable energy projects, driving down energy bills and reducing emissions to combat climate change.
Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards MP and Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio attended the start of construction of a solar-battery project to make Newstead 100 per cent renewable and announced $1.15 million for 15 new Victorian renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.
Supported by a $1.1 million grant from the Labor Government, the community-led Renewable Newstead Energy Project is a 3-megawatt (MW) solar farm and 5-megawatt-hour (MWh) battery system that will generate enough electricity to transition Newstead to 100 per cent renewable energy.
The community group Newstead 2021 Inc has spearheaded the project, made possible through unprecedented collaboration with Powercor and retailer Flow Power.
“Congratulations to the Newstead community who have led this incredible project, and will soon see their town running on 100 per cent renewable energy," Ms Edwards said.
With construction set to be complete by July 2023, a retail offer will be made available for Newstead residents through Flow Power, offering 100 per cent clean energy and power bill reductions of up to 30 per cent. Flow Power will reinvest a portion of profits back into the community for further renewable energy projects.
The volunteer group overcame significant challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, grid constraints, market changes, weather events, and international supply chain issues to break ground on the project.
The Andrews Labor Government has committed a further $1.15 million to Victorian renewable energy and energy efficiency projects through the latest round of the New Energy Jobs Fund (NEJF). The funding will support 15 new projects, boosting energy security, attracting private investment and creating jobs.
A total of $20 million has been provided through the NJEF, which was designed to support community-based projects that create long-term sustainable jobs, increase the uptake of renewable energy, slash greenhouse gas emissions and drive innovation in emerging energy technologies.
For more, visit: https://www.energy.vic.gov.au/grants/new-energy-jobs-fund.
