Grantus Blog - Unlocking Community Power

Unlocking Community Power

The 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program

Living and working in regional Victoria, I’ve seen firsthand how our landscape is evolving—from construction and resource extraction to the ongoing shift towards renewable energy. I remember when the Challicum Hills Wind Farm, one of our region’s first, was commissioned back in 2003. Here’s a photo I took in 2005 that captures the transition taking place almost 20 years ago—it even won ‘Best Picture’ in the ‘Engineering and Environment’ category!

Grantus photo of wind farm
Grantus winning photo award

Today, the push towards renewable energy isn’t just about technology or cost savings—it’s becoming deeply personal for many communities. It’s about people—our neighbours, friends, and families—and the impact these changes have on their lives. That’s why initiatives like the 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program are so critical. They offer a chance to bridge the gap, empower communities, and turn what might feel like a challenge into an opportunity for resilience and growth.

Let’s take a closer look at this exciting opportunity for those passionate about sustainable energy and community resilience. The 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program offers an exceptional chance for government organisations, businesses, and community groups to step up and empower their regions with shared energy storage.

The program is all about funding the deployment of neighbourhood batteries, which are essential for storing renewable energy and improving grid reliability. These batteries allow communities to store excess solar energy during the day and use it during peak hours, making the most of renewable resources and cutting down on energy costs.

Imagine a community that generates its own power, stores it, and uses it when needed most. With the right planning and community engagement, this vision can become a reality, turning renewable energy into a local asset.

This program aligns with key themes such as building regional capacity and enhancing climate change resilience. By installing neighbourhood batteries, communities can reduce their reliance on the central grid, increase self-sufficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable future. It’s a practical step toward the kind of public value that Grantus is always advocating for.

The Yarra Energy Foundation (YEF) in Victoria piloted a neighbourhood battery project in their community, showcasing the tangible benefits these initiatives bring. Beyond the energy savings, it fostered a sense of community ownership and pride. The program reduced local energy costs and provided a buffer during peak demand periods, proving that small-scale, community-focused solutions can have a big impact.

Consider Getting Involved

If your organisation is eligible and wants to support its community, this is a great opportunity to consider. The grants are going to be competitive, so having a clear vision and strong community support will be essential. Focus on the dual benefits of enhancing energy resilience and fostering community spirit. Remember, it’s not just about the technology—it’s about empowering people and creating lasting public value. There’s growing evidence to support the need to support your community’s future.

Picture of Simon Coutts

Simon Coutts

Simon is the CEO and Founder of Grantus, a trusted advisor in strategic funding, complex problem solving, and stakeholder management, driving growth and public benefit for organisations dedicated to making a lasting impact.

The Solution: Elevating Energy Awareness in Local Councils: Essential Training for New Councillors

To bridge the knowledge gap, Grantus, in partnership with Proud Mary Consulting is offering specialised workshops for new and returning councillors. This training will cover:

  • The fundamentals of the National Energy Market (NEM) and regional transmission plans.
  • The role of councils in energy projects and planning processes.
  • Strategies for effective advocacy and community engagement.
  • Practical insights into navigating stakeholder relationships and regulatory frameworks.

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Energy Governance

The role of local councils in energy transition is more critical than ever. By investing in targeted training, councils can not only comply with governance requirements but also seize opportunities to lead their communities towards a sustainable, prosperous future.

Ready to Empower Your Council?

Don’t miss this opportunity to equip your councillors with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Contact me, Simon Coutts, to learn more about our upcoming workshops and how we can support your council in navigating the energy transition.

Let’s build a brighter, more sustainable future—together.

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