Up to $1M is available from the Renewable Communities Program to support the implementation of community-scale renewable energy generation.
Renewable Communities Program
The Renewable Communities Program (RCP) will provide funding to support the delivery of implementation ready community led renewable energy project(s).
Background
Victoria’s energy sector is undergoing a significant transformation and community groups are participating by establishing grass roots projects that adopt new energy technologies and business models. Renewable energy can deliver many benefits for Victorian communities, including local jobs and economic benefits as well as driving positive and social outcomes and assisting Victorians to control their energy costs.
The Renewable Communities Program (RCP) is overseen by the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change and administered by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP).
In recognition of the capacity and capability constraints often faced by community renewable energy groups successful applicants will also be offered the services of a mentor to assist in the delivery of their project.
Funding
Funding (of up to $1 million) will be provided to project(s) that:
- will increase the uptake of renewable energy generation;
- consider energy justice and social benefit;
- promote community participation; and
- reduce greenhouse emissions.
Eligible Projects
The Renewable Communities Program (RCP) will fund the implementation of new community renewable energy projects that:
- delivers the majority of benefits to the participating community;
- utilises technology that is commercially-ready renewable energy or new energy generation technology;
- is located in Victoria; and
- will be completed by December 2020.
Eligible Applicants
Eligible organisations must:
- operate in Victoria;
- be a not-for-profit organisation or an established community energy co-operative;
- be able to demonstrate that the organisation has at least three years operating history; and
- have an Australian Business Number (ABN).
Matched funding is not required; however, applicants must have secured or have a plan to secure a cash contribution towards the project (minimum of 10%). Applications with higher funding contributions will be viewed favourably. In-kind contributions cannot exceed 15% of the budget.
For the purposes of the RCP a not-for-profit organisation is defined as an organisation that:
- registered in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001;
- incorporated as an association under the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012;
- incorporated as a co-operative under the Co-operatives National Law Application Act 2013 or National Co-operatives Law (Victoria) 2014;
- a ‘Council’ within the meaning of the Local Government Act 1989; or
- a committee of management incorporated under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978.
Timing
Applications close 1 October 2018.
