Bringing more clean energy to hepburn

The Victorian Government is helping boost the use of renewable energy technologies in the Hepburn Shire to reduce electricity costs, create local jobs and support clean power.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio and Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas today announced that the Hepburn Community Wind Park Co-operative will receive funding as part of round five of the New Energy Jobs Fund.

The group will receive $70,000 to develop and deliver a data management program that will support financing for other mid-scale renewable projects. It’ll be an added boost for the Hepburn Shire’s zero-net energy target by 2025 and zero-net emissions target by 2030.

The Hepburn Wind plan is among 13 community-owned renewable energy projects to be funded across the state – with more than $1 million allocated – and all aligned with the Regional Renewable Energy Roadmaps that were released in May.

Hepburn Wind has also submitted the planning permit for the a proposed 7.44MW solar farm and 10MWh battery storage project.

The roadmaps were developed by local community groups and set out individual – though complementary – strategies to help specific regions take advantage of renewable energy.

Funding has been awarded to those renewable energy projects that best promote community participation, allow access to the benefits of renewable energy for all and increase renewable energy generation in Victoria.

Some of the other successful projects a small-scale solar farm in Bendigo, a community battery in Yackandandah and a solar electricity system for the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club.

These projects will provide local employment opportunities, encourage meaningful community participation and contribute to Victoria’s 2050 net-zero emissions target.

For a full list of successful recipients or more information on the Fund, visit energy.vic.gov.au/new-energy-technologies.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
"These grants will give local communities the opportunity to harness clean energy technology to reduce emissions, build a local renewable energy economy and create local jobs."

"The Victorian Renewable Energy Target of 50 per cent by 2030 is making Victoria the best place to locate and grow a low-carbon business."

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
"We’re empowering local businesses and communities to do their bit for the environment by coming up with renewable energy projects that will not only reduce emissions, but create local jobs as well."

"Hepburn Wind’s program is a positive step forward that will help future projects be financially stable – leading to greater long-term security."

Quote attributable to Taryn Lane, General Manager at Hepburn Wind
"As always, our aim is to make our community more sustainable and resilient, while growing awareness about the need to cut emissions and build clean energy. We hope that this new project will demonstrate how communities can work towards these changes."