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.
The opening of Australia’s first offshore wind auction marks a watershed moment for Victoria’s energy system, unlocking one of the nation’s richest renewable energy resources, anchoring jobs and investment in regions like Gippsland, and delivering energy reliability for generations to come.
Renewables are delivering real benefits in Central West NSW
Discover what's happening on the ground in the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone in NSW, one of the regions building the wind, solar, battery and transmission projects that will power Australia's future.
Investment certainty greatly improved following Capital Gains Tax agreement in the Senate
Australia’s peak industry body for the clean energy industry has welcomed Treasurer Chalmers' announcement today to provide long term certainty for investors committed to Australia’s future energy needs.
Coalition VNI West decision puts Victoria's energy security at risk
The Victorian Coalition’s decision to scrap the VNI West transmission link if elected is a direct threat to Victoria’s energy security, leaving the state with fewer options to keep electricity flowing to Victorian families and businesses.
Gippsland New Energy Conference (GNEC) - Speech by Jackie Trad, Clean Energy Council CEO
Gippsland has powered Victoria for generations. And over the next three years, it will again sit at the centre of the decisions that determine whether Victorians have reliable, affordable and secure electricity.
Prime Minister's announcement strengthens Australia's clean energy growth story
The Clean Energy Council has welcomed the agreement to secure the future of the Tomago aluminium smelter, saying it demonstrates that Australia’s clean energy transition can strengthen heavy industry and protect blue-collar jobs.
