Fed Gov predicts $1b renewable boom, backed by RELA

Australian landholders could earn $1 billion from the renewable energy transition in the next five years, with support from the Federal Government and RELA.

The Federal Government is supporting RELA Australia to deliver its Assess 2.0 project online tool, which empowers landowners to make informed decisions about their land’s renewable energy potential.

Developed by RELA, a leading marketplace platform, the Assess 2.0 project will be accessible to landholders free of charge.

According to the Federal Government, the tool offers independent, detailed assessments of a property’s renewable energy capabilities, helping landowners determine fair remuneration for hosting renewable projects.

This initiative addresses a significant issue identified by the Dyer Community Engagement Review—landholders often lack the information needed to gauge the value of their land’s renewable potential or assess the credibility of developers.

RELA’s platform will integrate comprehensive data from diverse sources to enhance benchmarking, allowing users to incorporate their own farm plans and preferred exclusion zones into the assessment.

By providing accurate insights, RELA aims to equip landholders with the knowledge needed to navigate negotiations with developers confidently.

“The renewable transition can unlock new wealth and opportunities for farmers now, and for generations to come,” Chris Bowen, Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy said.

“To ensure this happens equitably we want landholders to have access to the best possible data to make informed decisions about who they negotiate with, and the potential of their land.”

“The Albanese Government is committed to striking the right balance between supporting the renewables rollout and farming, through genuine community engagement and long-term local benefits.”

The tool’s development is backed by $500,000 in funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).

ARENA CEO Darren Miller said the project would help strengthen landholder participation in the energy transition.

“Landholders play a crucial role in the energy transition. RELA’s Assess 2.0 platform will provide them with independent, accessible insights that help them assess the potential of renewable energy projects and negotiate agreements that work for them and their communities,” Miller said.

RELA’s CEO Michael Katz said this funding will allow the company to further assist landowners in the renewable energy transition by giving them a front-row seat at the negotiating table with developers.

“The $500,000 ARENA grant directly supports the development of RELA Assess 2.0, contributing to the overall $1.2 million Project budget,” Katz said.

“Landowners are at the centre of our platform, giving them access to the information they need to negotiate fair and equitable outcomes with the developer of their choice to ensure any project on their land delivers not just the best financial return but also a contractual agreement that meets the needs of their family, business and farm production system to continue their vital work as primary producers.”

RELA’s Chief of Product, Stuart Gourley, said RELA Assess laid the foundation for landowners to understand the renewable energy potential of their properties, which is a first in the market.

“With Assess 2.0, we’re taking this to the next level by incorporating more data layers, automating assessments and introducing farm plan mapping technology. This will help landowners make faster, more informed decisions while ensuring their land use priorities are reflected from the outset,” Gourley said.

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