Eleven community renewable energy projects across Australia have been recognised in the first-ever Climate Council Choice Awards, highlighting the positive impact of these initiatives on local communities.
These projects are transforming regions by reducing power bills, enhancing energy security, empowering First Nations communities, and boosting regional skills.
Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie emphasised the broad benefits of renewable energy, stating: “These awards show that renewables are delivering for everyday Aussies — cleaner power, lower bills, and stronger communities are just some of the brilliant benefits of a national renewable power system.”
McKenzie also noted the importance of inclusive growth in the renewable energy sector: “From rooftops to the grid, it’s essential every community shares in the social, economic, and environmental benefits of renewable energy from the sun and wind, backed by storage.”
Renewable power currently accounts for approximately 40 per cent of the energy in Australia’s main grid, with strong public support for further expansion.
A significant majority, around two-thirds, of Australians in both urban and rural areas favour renewable power projects, including those within their own communities.
Looking ahead, McKenzie stressed the need for continued commitment to renewable energy development.
“The next term of government takes us to 2030, when we need to have cut climate pollution from coal, oil, and gas by 75 per cent.
“Coal is rapidly on the way out, and we can replace it with more clean, affordable, and reliable renewable power.”
McKenzie also highlighted the economic and environmental advantages of investing in renewable projects: “To protect Australians from the worst effects of climate change and address cost of living pressures, whoever forms the next government must maintain momentum by supporting and investing in more projects like the 11 we have awarded.
“This will enable more Australians to access the benefits of the energy transition, and secure a safer future [for] us all.”
The Climate Council has provided community case studies showcasing the real-world impacts of these renewable projects.
For instance, the Bomen Solar Farm has created opportunities for women in the solar industry, as seen with Naomie Falconer, a Mechanical Supervisor in Solar, who progressed from a labourer to a supervisor through the Women in Solar program.
Ben Hinkelmann, a beekeeper at the Bomen Solar Farm, has observed the positive environmental effects of the project, noting that the area remains in bloom despite dry conditions.
In Grong Grong, Gemma Meier, a farmer hosting the Haystacks Solar Garden, values the community and social benefits of the project.
Elizabeth Gay Campbell, a pensioner in Riverina, has been able to access the advantages of solar energy through subsidised shares in the solar garden.
Hepburn Energy has supported the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre by providing a solar array and heat pump system, which warms showers for rough sleepers.
Zane Conroy, a local business owner in Ballarat, has been involved with Hepburn projects since their inception.
The New England Solar Farm, hosted by grazier Simon Wood in Uralla, has provided additional protection for grass and a passive income for his property.
Tara Toomey, a small business owner and community leader in Uralla, has received support from ACEN for the Season of New England festival.
In Denmark, Nicole Hodgson, a shareholder and community leader, has been involved in community organisations that have benefited from the Denmark Community Windfarm’s sustainability fund.
Totally Renewable Yackandandah (TRY) has assisted local farmer Cheryl Graham in making her home more sustainable through no-interest loans for solar and state subsidies for electrification.
