AFTER THE VIRUS - IN S.E.QUEENSLAND

Community Owned Renewable Energy generation (CORE)

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GUEST: Mark Tranter - Renew (Toowoomba)

Introduction:

It is well accepted  that alternative energy generation has an important role to play in reducing climate destabilising greenhouse gas emissions and providing low-carbon emissions employment.

In Queensland, in recent years, the state government has been supportive of large-scale renewables such as solar electric/photovoltaic farms and other solar electric installations. Over 40 large scale projects have been started in Queensland since 2015, producing 6000 jobs in the process and providing increasing amounts of greenhouse gas emission free electricity.

All of this is great news and we hope that these trends continue, but there has been far less publicity about another important type of alternative energy generation: and that is community owned renewable energy (CORE). On this episode of the ‘After the Virus’ podcast, Mark Tranter of Renew (Toowoomba) discusses some CORE options for the S.E. Queensland region.

Episode notes: 

  • Community owned electricity generation projects can provide an opportunity for local citizens to contribute to lower power bills for community facilities and make an income off of their community investment in renewable power.
  • Smaller scale, distributed energy grids may be better able to support innovatory local business start-ups , and local industry and employment generation. For example, in powering digital media data hubs which in turn can increase connectivity effectiveness in local areas.
  • The value of developing membership hubs which can educate the local community on the benefits of different kinds of community generation and advise business accordingly.
  • Initiatives mentioned: smart grid technologies, enabling renters and body corporates to use locally sourced power; the potential of virtual power stations, virtual net metering, the Queensland state government renewable energy zonation for the Darling Downs and South West Qld.
  • Existing community owned/renewable electricity initiatives of interest operating in S.E. Queensland: the Food Connect Shed community renewable power project developed in Brisbane in collaboration with Energetic Communities and the Zero Emissions Noosa program – aiming to use 100% renewable electricity in the Noosa Shire by 2026.

    • Podcast guest contact details:

    Mark Tranter at Renew Toowoomba

    Tel: 0419 – 736-219

    Email: [email protected]

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    Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE)

    http://www.hopeaustralia.org.au/

    Ph. 07 4639 2135

    Email: [email protected]

    Production: Produced for HOPE by Andrew Nicholson. This episode was recorded in Toowoomba, S.E. Queensland on Friday 4th September 2020.

    Artwork: Daniela Dal'Castel      Music by: James Nicholson

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