Local government in NSW took a turn for the greener today, announcing a landmark deal that will see 25 councils supplied by three NSW solar farms. The $180 million agreement, brokered by the Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (SSROC), is set to deliver over 214 gigawatt hours of electricity per year to participating councils across the state.
Under the agreement, electricity retailer ZEN Energy will supply renewable energy to councils representing over 3 million people – almost 38% of NSW’s population. Nineteen councils have committed to 100% renewable energy, with an overall 83% of the participating councils’ total electricity supply covered by renewable energy from the Moree, Hillston and Nevertire solar farms, all located within NSW.
Commencing in 2022, the solar farms will power 300 major council facilities, more than 210,000 streetlights and more than 3000 small council sites. The agreement runs to 2026 with an option to extend to 2030.
The foundation for a brighter and cleaner future
The milestone collaboration between councils represents one step closer to NSW’s net-zero goals, according to Minister for Local Government Wendy Tuckerman.
“It is fantastic to see SSROC working with one of the nation’s leading renewable energy companies, ZEN Energy,” Mrs Tuckerman said.
“Councils working together in this way shows just what all levels of Government can achieve in aiming for net-zero emissions and energy security. This huge investment in NSW will be the foundation of a brighter and cleaner future.”
Cr John Faker, Burwood Mayor and SSROC President said, “By buying as a group, councils have got a great renewable energy deal at the same cost or at a lower cost than their existing contracts for traditional black power. This is a major win for the environment at a time when the world’s focus is on taking solid steps to address climate change. It is a huge demonstration of the commitment of councils to serving their communities, minimising their carbon emissions and growing the economy of NSW.”
SSROC CEO, Helen Sloan said, “SSROC has been leading the market in advocating for shorter term, lower risk renewable energy supply agreements for councils that can be negotiated at competitive supply rates. This innovative, lower risk, deal lasts for 4.5 years and can be extended for up to 4 more years by participating councils. The approach taken proves that councils can secure competitive pricing and meet their renewable energy targets without having to enter into a long-term agreement.”
ZEN Energy CEO, Anthony Garnaut said, “The ZEN team would like to thank SSROC for the privilege of supplying renewable electricity to the council group through this critical decade for climate action. We look forward to working with all participating councils and their constituents to build the zero-carbon future.”
The participating councils are: Bayside, Burwood, Campbelltown, Canada Bay, Canterbury, Bankstown, Fairfield, Georges River, Hornsby, Hunters Hill, Inner West, Ku-ring-gai, Lane Cove, Liverpool, Mosman, North Sydney, Parramatta, Port Stephens, Randwick, Ryde, Singleton, Sutherland, Tamworth, Waverley, Willoughby and Woollahra.
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