The Andrews government launched Victoria’s first guide for community-owned renewable energy projects which comes in the lead up to the release of its Renewable Energy Action Plan.

Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio launched the guide at the Hepburn Wind’s annual general Meeting in Daylesford — Australia’s first community-owned wind farm.

“The renewable energy industry provides opportunities to grow Victoria’s economy, create new jobs and preserve our environment,” said Minister for Energy, Lily D’Ambrosio.

“We’ve restarted renewable energy in Victoria, and now we’re committed to making our state the industry leader. That includes supporting community-owned projects including wind, solar and small-scale hydro.”

Friends of the Earth and community energy advocate Embark welcome the release of the community energy guide and say it demonstrates an ‘all hands on deck’ approach to growing renewables in the state.

“The Andrews government’s support for the community energy sector demonstrates an ‘all hands on deck’ approach to meet Victorian Renewable Energy Targets,” said Leigh Ewbank, Friends of the Earth’s renewable energy spokesperson.

“Government, industry, community and householders all have a role to play when it comes to growing renewable energy in Victoria and tackling climate change.”

Community energy advocate Embark says the new guide demonstrates the Andrews governments commitment to the emerging community energy sector.

“This guide will be a valuable resource for communities who want to lead the transition to a clean energy future,” said Embark spokesperson Taryn Lane.

“The Andrews government is proactively addressing many of the barriers the Victorian community energy sector faces. We look forward to the government building on this step to help unlock community solar and wind projects.”

The Andrews government will release a Renewable Energy Action Plan in weeks. The plan will set Victorian Renewable Energy Targets for 2020 and 2025.

In September, the Premier announced a baseline Victorian Renewable Energy Target of at least 20 per cent by 2020. Friends of the Earth and Embark expect the government to adopt more ambition in the final targets.

“There are enough shovel-ready wind farms and active communities to smash the baseline target of 20 per cent renewable by 2020,” said Leigh Ewbank.

“Ambitious Victorian Renewable Energy Targets will create jobs, unleash investment, and help tackle climate change. It’s something all political parties can support.”

Coalition 4 Community Energy Workshops

Members of the Coalition for Community Energy – Embark, Moreland Energy Foundation, the Alternative Technology Association and the Community Power Agency – will facilitate nine workshops on community energy across the state. Click here for more information.

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