For immediate release - Wednesday 6 November 2024
Farmers, retired coal workers and local government representatives have travelled to Canberra to explain why Local Energy Hubs are urgently needed in their communities.
The group briefed politicians at an event hosted by the Federal Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi MP and the Federal Member Indi, Helen Haines MP today.
Media can access images from today’s briefing here.
Local Energy Hubs are a proposed network of outreach centres staffed by locals to assist communities navigating renewable energy and transmission projects, while helping local households, businesses and farms to lower their energy bills and electrify.
For media inquiries please contact Kitty Walker kitty@re-alliance.org.au 0438 900 117
Retired coal engineer from Wollongong, Darryl Best said Local Energy Hubs were needed in the Illawarra.
“I’ve worked all my life in coal mines. I don't regret that I worked in it, but I do regret the effect it's had on the climate. We need to move away from fossil fuels, but in a way where there are new industries and jobs that people can be proud of. We need Local Energy Hubs in the Illawarra so people can access factual information about renewables, both in this area and how we fit into the national plan.” he said.
Glenbrae farmer and local councillor David Clark said his community was no stranger to renewable energy projects.
“Having multiple renewable energy and transmission projects in your community is not easy, it’s messy, there’s a lot of things to consider and not everyone will get everything they want. Firstly everyone needs to have access to factual information. From there a community can work together to put its best foot forward because I've seen how small communities can benefit from these projects. That’s what Local Energy Hubs are about and I think it could really help us.”
Narrabri farmer and founder of Geni.Energy Sally Hunter said she was excited to see a future where Local Energy Hubs could support regional communities across the country, like Geni.Energy has in Narrabri.
“I think the Local Energy Hubs initiative is really important and I think it’s a government responsibility. Fill a shop front in a local town. All of our towns have empty shops in the main street. Be a friendly face that people can come and ask their questions - make it practical for people - and help to break down some of the barriers around renewables,” she said.
Matthew Parton, Director of Stromlo Energy said industry supported the concept of Local Energy Hubs in regional communities.
“The best renewable energy companies know that deep engagement, listening, and co-designing local benefits is a win-win. Local Energy Hubs can help ensure people feel informed and confident to participate in, and make the most of, the huge opportunities that can come from the clean energy shift.”
Dan Repacholi MP, Federal Member for Hunter said: “Local Energy Hubs would help ensure communities have the facts about local projects, and with the world undergoing a switch to more renewable energy, it's important to have somewhere that people can get accurate and unbiased information and support.”
Helen Haines MP, Federal Member for Indi said: “The creation of a network of Local Energy Hubs would assist regional towns, industry and organisations to access reliable information about Australia’s energy transformation and support genuine regional development and community benefit.”
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RE-Alliance, Community Power Agency and Yes2Renewables have been working together to call on the federal government to fund Local Energy Hubs for regional communities in the upcoming Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook.
Contact details:
Kitty Walker kitty@re-alliance.org.au 0438 900 117