Australia is on the cusp of an incredible energy shift, that will create thousands of jobs in renewable energy, revitalise regional economies and cut polluting greenhouse gas emissions.
It’s absolutely essential that regional communities are empowered to be part of the shift to renewable energy.
And we need a plan to make that happen. That’s why we’re calling on the federal government to fund Local Energy Hubs today!
Regional communities need accurate information and opportunities to be involved with local renewable energy projects, transmission projects, learn how to electrify their homes and businesses, and more.
A network of 50 Local Energy Hubs could provide this information by employing trusted, local people.
Experts in all aspects of the shift to renewable energy would be housed at these hubs, ready to answer the questions without an agenda, and to assist locals whether they’d like to buy an electric vehicle, help set up a community-owned renewable energy project or have a say about the large scale renewable energy developments in their region.
We want the energy transformation to create local jobs and opportunities, and unite communities.
Sign the petition and call on the Federal Government to support Local Energy Hubs!
This joint campaign is being run with our allies RE-Alliance, Yes to Renewables/Friends of the Earth and the Australian Conservation Foundation.
By signing on you will join a network of renewable energy champions who want to see more power in the hands of communities.
What is a Local Energy Hub?
- A physical drop-in centre, staffed by well-networked, respected local people. Their role is to demystify the energy transition, bolster local engagement in transition projects, and independently facilitate constructive interactions between energy developers and the community.
- The hubs deliver programs that are needed for their region. For example: supporting community-led energy projects or helping households and businesses reduce their energy bills.
- Funded by government and independent from industry
- Supported by a national coordinating body to enable knowledge sharing, collaboration and coordination between hubs
Why do we need Local Energy Hubs?
- Lack of accessible and credible national communications strategy on the energy transformation from the Federal Government.
- Local expertise for local people – having well resourced Hubs in regional areas can provide the very needed information that is accessible to everyday people.
- Ensure the benefits from our energy transformation are shared. Local, trusted hubs will enable high-quality and context-appropriate communication about the initiatives that benefit the local community, as well as the broader benefits of transition. The national coordination body will help to ensure community benefits are consistent across state jurisdictions.
- Address local needs and opportunities. Regions have different needs and opportunities. Hubs can realise this by delivering targeted programs and projects that people want.
In collaboration with
