MEDIA STATEMENT
Up to $67,700 in grant funding is now available for Indi community groups for small-scale renewable energy projects to improve energy efficiency, lower energy use, save money and reduce emissions.
The Independent Member for Indi Helen Haines has called for not-for-profit community organisations to submit their expressions of interest for the new Powering Communities Program grants before 5.00pm Friday 2 July 2021.
Grants of between $5,000 – $12,000 are available for not-for-profit, community organisations for projects for small-scale renewable energy projects, including to:
- Upgrade equipment to reduce energy consumption
- Invest in energy monitoring and management systems
- Invest in on-site renewable energy and solar-connected batteries
- Undertake energy management activities and assessments.
This can include purchasing and installing solar PV or batteries, upgrading air conditioning, hot water systems, LED lighting, cooktops and refrigerators, and conducting energy audits. Up to 12 projects will be funded.
Dr Haines encouraged all community groups to check out the eligibility criteria and consider applying.
“Electricity bills can be one of the biggest costs for community groups, particularly when winter comes around,” she said.
“These grants can pay for solar panels on the footy club, new LED lighting in the community hall or Rotary club, or a battery for your local kindergarten.
“Many community groups want to reduce energy use, but don’t have the funds to take the next step.
“These grants will them a boost and mean they can spend less on power and more on meeting the needs of their communities.”
Expressions of interest can be lodged by visiting /resources/grants and completing the online form.
Expressions of interest will be assessed by a grants consultative committee in mid-July 2021. Successful applicants will then be invited to make a full application for funding.