Program to increase access to renewable energy in Newcastle

City of Newcastle wants to make it easier for Novocastrians to save on energy costs while also helping reduce the ongoing impacts of climate change.

Expressions of interest are being sought from service providers to deliver a 'bulk buy' community renewables program for homeowners, landlords and small businesses, through the supply and installation of solar panels, batteries and electric vehicle chargers.

Executive Director Planning and Environment, Michelle Bisson, said the bulk buy scheme is the next initiative in City of Newcastle's Empowering Newcastle program.

"We're working with residents, businesses, schools, and community groups to switch to renewable energy, electrify, and create a net zero future," Ms Bisson said.

"Almost half of Newcastle's community emissions are from non-renewable electricity so increasing renewable energy uptake in households and businesses will lead to a significant reduction in emissions, while providing economic and social benefits.

"Just under 30 per cent of residential buildings in Newcastle have solar, which is the lowest uptake of all councils in the Hunter and below the state average of 35 percent.

"Studies have shown there are several barriers to switching to renewables, including people finding it too expensive and too complicated.

“Progressing renewable energy uptake is a key priority in our Community Strategic Plan and a major part of the Newcastle Environment Strategy, which aims to support the transition of the Newcastle local government area to net zero emissions by 2040.

"This bulk buy program will help Novocastrians access products and suppliers that have been carefully vetted, while educating them on the long-term financial benefits of solar, batteries and virtual power plants, which allows participants to earn money by exporting their excess energy to the grid during peak demand periods.”

Expressions of Interest for service providers interested in participating in the Newcastle Community Renewable Energy Bulk Buy Program are now open until 2pm Tuesday 19 November 2024.

City of Newcastle is hoping to launch the program in the first half of 2025 after the selection of suitable service providers to participate in the program.