Dinawan Energy Hub Pilot Grant Program Announced
Spark Renewables, an Australian developer and long-term owner of renewable energy generation assets developing the Dinawan Energy Hub in the South West Renewable Energy Zone, has announced a $20,000 Pilot Grant Program will be available for communities surrounding our Dinawan Energy Hub this year. This builds on $10,000 of sponsorships already provided to the surrounding community.
The 2.3 gigawatt Dinawan Energy Hub is located approximately 33 km south of Coleambally, NSW, on the traditional lands of the Wiradjuri people and several smaller nations of the Murrumbidgee plains, and comprises 1,200 megawatts (MW) wind, 800 MW solar, and 300 MW of battery storage.
In order to provide positive social and environmental outcomes at the local level, Spark Renewables will distribute $20,000 this year to eligible applicants. The Pilot Grant Program seeks to benefit the communities closest to the project, focusing on initiatives within 55 km of the proposed project area, which includes Coleambally, Jerilderie or Darlington Point.
The funding priorities for the Pilot Grant Program include:
- Local infrastructure and services
- Employment or education opportunities
- Community social benefits, inclusion, health and well-being
- Sustainability or enhance the natural environment
- Heritage preservation, restoration and promotion
- Outdoor recreational activities, sports and clubs
- Art and culture
- Community events and festivals
- Youth development
Spark Renewables intends to transition the Pilot Grant Program into an annual community benefits program for the life of the Dinawan Energy Hub once the project commences construction. The future amount of the community benefits program will be based on the final size of the project.
“We care about the land we build on, working closely with landowners, local communities and government to develop low-carbon energy projects, whilst also driving positive social and environmental outcomes at a local level,” said Will Stone, Head of Development at Spark Renewables.
Applications are accepted until 15 August 2024 (inclusive).
If you are interested to learn more about the Pilot Grant Program, or would like to apply, please read more here.
ENDS
Contact:
Will Stone, Head of Development
M: +61 468 745 736
E: will.stone@sparkrenewables.com
Download the PDF: Media Release – Dinawan Energy Hub Pilot Grant Program Announced