The latest initiative from New South Wales’ Resources for Regions program will allow Cabonne Shire Council to plan, build and install a mid-scale solar and battery plant at Eugowra.
Nationals Upper House MP, Sam Farraway, announced more than $1.5 million in funding to help Cabonne Shire Council meet its 50 per cent renewable energy target by 2030.
Since 2012, the Resources for Regions program has delivered 355 projects worth $560 million to mining communities, stimulating local economies and delivering critical infrastructure.
New South Wales Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional New South Wales, Paul Toole, said, “The Resources for Regions program is about giving back to these mining communities that contribute so much to the New South Wales economy.”
“It’s absolutely crucial we continue to support regional mining towns that supply our state with the resources needed to keep the lights on and the economy moving forward, and this program is just another example of the New South Wales Government’s commitment to the future of our mining regions.”
Mr Farraway said, “The New South Wales Liberal and Nationals Government is committed to improving daily life for all through strategic infrastructure investments,”
“Thanks to this grant, the Cabonne Shire Council can now construct and run a mid-sized solar and battery facility in Eugowra, bringing down energy expenses for council-owned buildings.
“This exciting development benefits the whole community and showcases the New South Wales Liberal and Nationals Government’s unwavering commitment to delivering projects that enhance our communities and boost our local economies.”
Cabonne Shire Council Mayor, Kevin Beatty, said “This renewable energy project plans to create and develop regional jobs, stabilise the energy distribution network, and provide Cabonne Council, and all Central New South Wales Joint Organisation Councils, additional power to meet their 50 per cent renewable energy target by 2030 or earlier.”
“The project will fund electricity costs across all of Council’s 85 sites, which will result in lower hiring fees for community and sporting group accessing these facilities, and help to position the region as a leader in sustainability,” MrBeatty said.
Resources for Regions has supported economic and social prosperity in mining communities in regional New South Wales, with the $140 million Round Nine expanded to support communities where gas exploration or mining may occur.
The $560 million Resources for Regions is part of the New South Wales Government’s $3.3 billion Regional Growth Fund, designed to support growing regional centres, activate local economies and improve services and infrastructure for regional communities.
Feature image (L-R): Cabonne Shire Council Mayor, Kevin Beatty, New South Wales Nationals Upper House MP, Sam Farraway, and New South Wales Nationals candidate for Orange, Tony Mileto, at the Waluwin Community Centre. Image supplied by Carbonne Shire Council.
