Grants of between $5,000 and $12,000 can be applied for with up to 12 projects approved in each electorate.
The program will assist not-for-profit community organisations to:
- upgrade equipment to reduce energy consumption
- undertake energy management activities and assessments, such as energy systems assessments and feasibility studies
- invest in energy monitoring and management systems
- invest in on-site renewable energy and solar-connected batteries.
The grant amount will be up to 100% of eligible project expenditure.
Eligibility
To be eligible you must:
- be invited to apply by your MP (after you submit an EOI)
- have an Australian business number (ABN)
- You must also be one of the following incorporated entities:
- an incorporated not for profit organisation (including incorporated associations; non-distributing co-operatives; companies limited by a guarantee; Indigenous corporations; or religious organisations incorporated under legislation)
- an incorporated trustee on behalf of a trust with responsibility for a community asset or property
Eligible Projects
The program funds projects to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy use. The following projects are a guide to types of suitable projects:
- energy generation projects including solar photovoltaic panels and battery storage
- new split system air conditioners to replace some older types of units
- solar and heat pump bathroom and kitchen hot water heaters to replace older units
- replacement of non-LED lighting with LED lighting
- control upgrades for air conditioning and lighting (eg timers, sensors or digital controllers)
- appliance replacements including induction cooktops and commercial refrigeration
- other activities including energy audits and installing metering equipment
Section 5.1 of the grant opportunity guidelines for more information about eligible activities.
Further information
Be sure to check out the 7 minute Information Video and the key documents (especially the Grant Opportunity Guidelines, Factsheet and Frequently Asked Questions)
NOTE: The “sample application form” gives an indication of the information that will be required IF your organisation is invited to submit. This is DIFFERENT to the single page Expression of Interest form you need to submit initially.
Need assistance for project ideas or gathering quotes?
Projects that are already costed include:
- 6kw Solar Panel system, with inverter and remote monitoring system for $11,700, including installation by a reputable local installer
- Energy Efficient Kitchen Appliances upgrade, which includes a quality Smeg Induction Cooktop and modern, 4-star+ energy efficient Fridge (and/or stand alone Freezer) starting from $4,000. Installation costs for the Induction Cooktop is extra and may require the installation of a dedicated 30A power point.
- Spilt system Reverse Cycle Spilt System (Air Conditioners), from $1,500, including installation by a reputable local installer
- Replacement of existing non-LED with LED lighting. Pricing is dependent on the number of lights and type of lighting. JCP will fully discuss your requirements.
- Energy audit on a community hall or building from $500
NOTE: Junee Community Power can either put you in direct contact with recommended suppliers and installers OR they can provide full assistance with gathering appropriate quotes in your organisation’s name and even help with preparing the Expression of Interest form for the Powering Communities Program.
contact junee community power »
Submit an Expression of Interest
A simple single page Expression of Interest, along with supporting documentation eg plans and pricing, needs to be lodged with the office of our local MP (Member for Riverina, The Hon. Michael McCormack). These can be submitted to his electorate office or via email.
Expressions of Interest close 5pm, July 16, 2021
download powering communities program expression of interest form – riverina »
In consultation with their community, each MP must identify potential applicants and projects in their electorate and invite them to apply for a grant. Expressions of Interest will be assessed by our local MP and an independent panel for consideration of receiving a formal invite to submit a full application for the Powering Communities Program. Federal Members of Parliament have until 6 September 2021 to nominate community groups that will be invited to apply.