Several NSW regions have taken another step towards replacing a 150-year-old model of centralised energy production with community-owned renewable power.Two projects aimed at helping rural communities access their own affordable sustainable energy, Farming the Sun and New England Wind, have been granted funding to further develop projects for solar and windfarms.
Member for Tamworth, Kevin Anderson, announced the State Government funding packages totalling$85,000 on behalf of Minister for the Environment and Heritage, Robyn Parker, at the New Energy Forum held in Tamworth. Around 70 people were in attendance for the public launch.
Mr Anderson reiterated the NSW Government’s commitment to achieving 20% renewable energy for electricity by 2020 and said: “There is an opportunity for NSW to lead on community renewable energy.With this NSW Government funding, communities are able to work together to own and control their energy future, addressing environmental sustainability and energy self-sufficiency.”
Outgoing Independent Member for New England, Tony Windsor, a strong advocate of renewable energy in the regions, told the Forum that “wind, solar and bio-gas energy are a no-brainer for rural development,being good for the economy and the environment”.
Farming the Sun received $35,000 from the Office of Environment and Heritage to further site and feasibility studies for five solar farms planned for the State’s Northern Inland and North Coast regions. The Earth Welfare Foundation and Starfish Enterprises itself have committed funding for a further two solar farms, making seven in total.
New England Wind received $50,000 for site negotiations, feasibility modelling and a comprehensive community engagement and education program.”Renewable energy is affordable, sustainable and strengthens rural communities and economies,” said Projects Director, Adam Blakester.
“The price of solar power technology today is 1/100th of what it was 30 years ago. When combined with a community ownership model, solar power is more competitive than buying ‘black power’ off the grid formany medium-large electricity users,” added Blakester.
Mayor John Coulton of Gwydir Shire Council spoke at the launch regarding their signing on to the project to conduct a feasibility study for a community owned solar farm.“We are a fiercely independent local government and community,” said Mayor Coulton. “We see the potential for community-owned solar farms as another way we can strengthen our sustainability.”Mr Blakester said the next step is keep identifying medium-large electricity users in the region who are interested to assess the feasibility of locating a community solar farm on their site. Expressions of interest are also invited from community members willing to consider supporting and investing.
For more information see the project websites – www.newenglandwind.coop and www.farmingthesun.net
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