The New South Wales Government has unveiled a new educational initiative targeting businesses and local councils within Renewable Energy Zones (REZs).
The program, launched on July 17, 2024, aims to empower these entities to reduce costs and contribute to net zero targets through informed renewable energy procurement.
The Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo) has joined forces with the Business Renewables Centre Australia (BRC-A) to spearhead this initiative.
Alexandra Hall, EnergyCo Community Benefits and Regional Development Director said power purchase agreements are a great way for local councils and businesses to lock in energy price stability, save money and source more electricity directly from renewables.
“They’re good for these organisations, they’re good for local employment and investment, and they’re good for the environment,” Hall said.
“This new program aims to make sure councils and businesses in our Renewable Energy Zones have the knowledge and the practical tools to secure the best power purchase agreement for their needs.”
The program focuses on educating participants about the benefits and processes of purchasing electricity directly from renewable energy generators, such as solar and wind farms, as well as from energy retailers with renewable generation capabilities.
Central to the program is the concept of renewable energy power purchase agreements (PPAs), which offer businesses and councils access to long-term, reliable renewable energy supplies.
Through a series of workshops and information sessions, participants will gain comprehensive knowledge about the financial and environmental advantages of PPAs, the intricacies of the PPA process, and strategies for identifying and securing optimal agreements.
Jackie McKeon, program director of Business Renewables Centre Australia said the Business Renewables Council is thrilled to be working with EnergyCo to raise the literacy level about power purchase agreements for organisations around NSW.
“Through our years of experience supporting some of Australia’s most high-profile companies and councils we understand how our PPA training can empower participants to think differently about their energy options,” he said.
The initiative has already begun with information sessions in the Central-West Orana REZ, with plans to expand to the Hunter-Central Coast and New England REZs in the coming months.
Businesses and councils in these regions are encouraged to register their interest in the program through EnergyCo.
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