Billions in the bush: Renewable energy for regional prosperity
Read our report on the economic benefits clean energy is delivering to farmers and regional communities across Australia.
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18 Nov 2024
Large-scale renewable energy projects are estimated to deliver $1 billion to farmers and $200 million to regional communities by 2030, according to our report with Farmers for Climate Action.
Renewables are not only keeping the lights on as coal plants reach the end of their technical life, but they’re also creating jobs and alternative income streams and benefits right across Australian communities.
The report shows farmers can earn $38,500 to $45,500 per year from hosting a typical 7MW turbine and up to $1,250 per hectare from solar. For comparison, a beef farmer can expect returns of $1,500 per hectare per year in a good year.
Our analysis shows contributions are expected to deliver $213 million by 2030 and $1.9 billion to 2050, supporting regional communities to thrive.
Based on total renewable capacity, farmers and landholders in NSW are expected to receive $290 million - $371 million by 2030, while those in Queensland are expected to receive $220 million - $274 million; those in Victoria are expected to receive $238 million - $288 million, those in South Australia are expected to receive $109 million - $132 million and those in Tasmania are expected to receive $41 million to $48 million.
The report only looks at the National Electricity Market, covering eastern and southern states and territories.
Submission to NSW DCCEEW on changes to the Biodiversity Assessment Method
Our submission proposes a number of recommendations for changes to ensure the renewable energy sector does not face unintended consequences and challenges.
Submission on strengthening Australia’s response to modern slavery in supply chains
Our submission to the Attorney-General’s Department supports proposed reforms to the Modern Slavery Act 2018 (Cth) and provides recommendations on the design of the proposed ‘failure to prevent modern slavery offence’. It also includes renewable energy sector case studies highlighting practical supply chain challenges and considerations for implementation.
Australians backing rooftop solar, home batteries in record numbers
As conflict far from Australia’s shores drives up fuel prices and renews inflation pressures, households are increasingly taking energy security into their own hands.
Australia's clean energy pipeline notches a big century in 2026
Today’s announcement that the Federal Government has approved over 150 clean energy projects since 2022 shows that Australia’s clean energy industry is an economic powerhouse.
Reckless Coalition energy plan would take Australia backward
When clean energy projects are pouring billions of dollars into Australia and creating thousands of jobs, turning our back on this investment is reckless and short-sighted. It hurts our economy, it risks our future and, above all, it will make everyday Australians more vulnerable to global shocks and price volatility.
