A program in Victoria is providing incentives for Traditional Owners to increase clean energy capability and leadership as part of the First Peoples Adoption of Renewable Energy Program.
The Victorian government this month announced $960,000 in clean energy grants for Traditional Owner Corporations to deliver renewable energy projects to benefit their communities.
Energy and Resources Minister Lily D’Ambrosio says the government is “working with Traditional Owners to enable them to shape how clean energy is developed in their communities”, and to help them protect their country while helping to deliver clean power and jobs.
Projects could include installing solar panels, developing feasibility studies, and undertaking business cases for future community-owned renewable energy generation.
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Victorian Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Gabrielle Williams said the government was “proud to be helping Traditional Owners harness new renewable energy opportunities and share in the jobs and cost saving benefits”.
In September, Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation, trading as DJAARA, launched a solar-battery project supported by the state government, as well as the Nyuawi Mutjeka renewable energy strategy.
DJAARA installed a 32.4-kilowatt solar system and 14 kilowatt-hour battery on the Dja Dja Wurrung Corporate and Community Centre, supported through Victoria’s Traditional Owner Renewable Energy Program (TOREP).
Applications for the grants announced this month of up to $50,000 will be available to both Registered Aboriginal Parties and non-formally recognised Traditional Owner Corporations.
Submissions close 28 April with approvals announced in June. More information and applications are available online.
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