Huge renewable energy deal for 25 councils in NSW

One of the largest renewable energy deals for local government, which will see 25 councils supplied by three NSW solar farms, was announced last week by the Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (SSROC), which brokered the deal with electricity retailer ZEN Energy Retail Pty Ltd (ZEN Energy).

Worth approximately $180 million, the landmark retail electricity agreement will deliver over 214 gigawatt-hours of electricity per year to 25 councils across NSW. It involves the supply of electricity to over 300 major council facilities, more than 210,000 streetlights and more than 3000 small sites managed by councils.

The 25 participating councils collectively represent over 3 million people — almost 38% of the NSW population. The agreement commences in 2022 and runs to 2026 with an option to extend to 2030. Nineteen of the participating councils have opted for 100% renewable energy under the agreement. Overall, 83% of the councils’ total electricity supply will be covered by renewable energy from the Moree, Hillston and Nevertire Solar Farms, all located within NSW.

Minister for Local Government Wendy Tuckerman said the landmark collaboration between councils brings NSW one step closer to achieving net zero goals. “It is fantastic to see SSROC working with one of the nation’s leading renewable energy companies, ZEN Energy,” she 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, stated that by buying as a group, councils had received a 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,” he said.

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.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Blue Planet Studio