Spark Renewables

Project Director

Apply for a Project Director role at Spark Renewables

  • Be part of an exciting company in the growing renewable energy sector.
  • Manly office with ocean views and an enjoyable hybrid environment, with great benefits.
  • Permanent, full-time, immediate start (part-time considered for the right person).

The opportunity

As our Project Director for the Dinawan Energy Hub, you will lead this critical project from late-stage development through to commissioning. Your main goal is to ensure it is delivered safely, on schedule, and within budget, meeting Spark Renewables’ high standards. This involves implementing robust project management, a strong schedule focus, and effective risk management. You will need solid leadership, commercial acumen, and technical understanding to guide multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. Some of your duties will include:

  • Coordinating the project to financial close, owning the schedule and coordinating stakeholders to meet the target date.
  • Implementing robust project management and governance processes, providing timely project progress reports.
  • Engaging with the wider organisation to ensure risks, issues, and contingencies are efficiently managed.
  • Participating in contract finalisations and negotiations, and ensuring active contractor relationship management.
  • Providing technical and construction input into late-stage development and procurement, ensuring robust design reviews.
  • Providing leadership during construction, ensuring safety, quality, schedule, and cost goals are met.
  • Consolidating and analysing budgets, costs, and forecasts.
  • Providing direction and managing the development of the Spark Renewables project team.
  • Developing effective relationships with internal departments, contractors, suppliers, landowners, and other stakeholders.

This pivotal role offers the chance to lead a landmark renewable energy project, driving its success from critical development stages through to completion.

What we’re looking for

  • Over 15 years’ experience in project delivery, ideally in renewable energy or infrastructure, managing large-scale projects.
  • Experience in late-stage development, procurement, and bringing projects to financial close in renewables.
  • Expertise in renewable energy systems, construction methods, and Australian standards.
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and develop talent.
  • Strong financial acumen in budgeting and analysis.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills for stakeholder management.

Why you’ll love working with us

In our view, our culture is second to none. We are a team of passionate professionals from diverse backgrounds, united by our focus on sustainability and our purpose to build Australia’s renewable energy future.

Our team is supportive, and we have an open-minded, forward-thinking, and inclusive culture. We offer a range of employee benefits including flexible work arrangements, a hybrid work environment, great office location in Manly with ocean views, and a strong focus on professional development and health and wellbeing.  You also get the opportunity to work on impactful, future-focussed projects.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion

We are committed to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our company and celebrate difference in all that we do. We believe our people are our greatest asset and by supporting and incorporating their diverse talents, knowledge, perspectives, and experiences we can strengthen our relationships within our community and influence real change.

We are committed to building a team that represents a wide variety of backgrounds, perspectives, gender, skills and abilities. We are also committed to fostering meaningful change within our organisation and community, including First Nations communities, through the implementation and embedding of our Reconciliation Action Plan.

You can find out more about the great work that we do here.

How to apply

Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted, so please apply now by providing your CV along with a brief cover letter. We would love to hear why you are interested in this role and Spark Renewables, what skills and experience you would bring and how you’d contribute to our team and our work.

Please submit your application and any questions you may have to people@sparkrenewables.com.

Project Director Read More »

Procurement Manager

Apply for a Procurement Manager role at Spark Renewables

  • Join a growing team and be part of a leading renewable energy company.
  • Enjoy hybrid flexibility with a stunning Manly office; other east coast locations considered.
  • Be part of a collaborative, values-driven team with great culture and benefits.

The opportunity

Reporting to the Head of Procurement, you will manage end-to-end procurement for Spark Renewables’ major infrastructure projects, with a strong focus on wind farm procurement, as well as high voltage electrical works, solar farms, and BESS. This includes coordinating tender processes, evaluating proposals, engaging with internal and external stakeholders, and negotiating and finalising contracts in collaboration with the Legal team.

You will work closely with internal teams across project development, engineering, grid, legal, project delivery, commercial and finance, ensuring procurement decisions support the best project outcomes while upholding Spark Renewables’ values, and a strong focus on ethical sourcing, sustainability and First Nations participation.

This hands-on role is suited to someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about contributing to Australia’s renewable energy transition, as well as aligning with our values of integrity, collaboration, authenticity, and excellence.

What we’re looking for

  • A self-starter with strong commercial acumen and a minimum of 5 years’ experience in procurement roles within renewable energy, power generation, or large-scale infrastructure.
  • Tertiary qualifications in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Law, Commerce, Business, Construction Management, or a related field.
  • Comfortable navigating complexity and known for bringing clarity, structure, and initiative to procurement processes.
  • Demonstrated experience in managing end-to-end procurement activities across construction, supply, and service contracts, with minimal supervision.
  • Solid understanding of legal and contractual frameworks relevant to construction and supply agreements.
  • Strong skills in problem-solving, planning, negotiation, and communication.
  • High attention to detail with a proven ability to manage intricate procurement processes effectively.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Why you’ll love working with us

We believe our culture is second to none, and our exceptional retention rate is testament to that. We are a team of passionate professionals from diverse backgrounds, united by our focus on sustainability and our purpose to build Australia’s renewable energy future.

Our team is supportive, and we have an open-minded, forward-thinking, and inclusive culture. We offer a range of employee benefits including flexible work arrangements, a hybrid work environment, great office location in Manly with ocean views, and a strong focus on professional development and health and wellbeing.  You also get the opportunity to work on impactful, future-focussed projects.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion

We are committed to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our company and celebrate difference in all that we do. We believe our people are our greatest asset and by supporting and incorporating their diverse talents, knowledge, perspectives, and experiences we can strengthen our relationships within our community and influence real change.

We are committed to building a team that represents a wide variety of backgrounds, perspectives, gender, skills and abilities. We are also committed to fostering meaningful change within our organisation and community, including First Nations communities, through the implementation and embedding of our Reconciliation Action Plan.

How to apply

If this role sounds like you, please apply by providing a covering letter specifically addressing the selection criteria together with your CV. Please direct any questions you may have to people@sparkrenewables.com

Procurement Manager Read More »

Safety Manager

Apply for a Safety Manager role at Spark Renewables

  • Join a growing team and be part of a leading renewable energy company.
  • Enjoy hybrid flexibility with a stunning Manly office; other east coast locations considered.
  • Be part of a collaborative, values-driven team with great culture and benefits.

The opportunity

Reporting to our Head of Delivery, you will lead the development, implementation, and management of all Health and Safety (H&S) policies, systems, and programs at Spark Renewables. This key role ensures all projects, from development to operations, comply with regulations and adhere to our safety standards and values. 

In this newly created role, you will drive a safety culture across our business, sites, and contractors, focusing on active safety management, reporting, and analysis. You’ll report safety statistics, trends and risks to senior management, developing and implementing controls for all safety risks. Some of your duties will include: 

  • Managing, developing and implementing H&S strategies and systems, considering renewable energy project challenges. 
  • Ensuring all H&S compliance and reporting obligations are met according to relevant legislation and internal systems. 
  • Overseeing the implementation and maintenance of ISO 45001 certification. 
  • Managing all H&S reporting, including statutory, board, executive, and asset-specific reports. 
  • Overseeing risk assessments, developing mitigation strategies, and implementing H&S protocols, audit programs, and emergency response plans. 
  • Leading and promoting a strong safety culture through guidance, support, safety awareness training, campaigns, and incident investigations. 
  • Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, to foster positive relationships and address H&S concerns. 
  • Ensuring full engagement with external stakeholders on compliance obligations and acting as the escalation point for non-compliances. 
  • Establishing KPIs and metrics to measure H&S performance, tracking progress for continuous improvement, and providing regular reports to Executive Leadership. 
  • Managing and leading the Safety team, providing motivation, development, and overseeing performance. 

This hands-on role offers the opportunity to work closely with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders in a fast-paced and purpose-driven environment.

What we’re looking for

  • 10+ years experience in health and safety management, ideally within the renewable energy or construction sector.
  • Bachelor of Science (Health and Safety) or a related qualification. 
  • In-depth knowledge of relevant H&S regulations, standards, ISO 45001 and best practices. 
  • Solid track record of successfully implementing H&S programs on large-scale projects. 
  • Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. 
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities at once whilst ensuring H&S teams are focused and fully engaged.  
  • Excellent organisational skills, including strong analytical and solution focused abilities.  
  • Incident Cause Analysis Method (ICAM) or equivalent investigation trained, with a White Card, and a current driver’s license.

Why you’ll love working with us

We believe our culture is second to none, and our exceptional retention rate is testament to that. We are a team of passionate professionals from diverse backgrounds, united by our focus on sustainability and our purpose to build Australia’s renewable energy future. 

Our team is supportive, and we have an open-minded, forward-thinking, and inclusive culture. We offer a range of employee benefits including flexible work arrangements, a hybrid work environment, great office location in Manly with ocean views, and a strong focus on professional development and health and wellbeing.  You also get the opportunity to work on impactful, future-focussed projects. 

Diversity, equity, and inclusion

We are committed to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our company and celebrate difference in all that we do. We believe our people are our greatest asset and by supporting and incorporating their diverse talents, knowledge, perspectives, and experiences we can strengthen our relationships within our community and influence real change. 

We are committed to building a team that represents a wide variety of backgrounds, perspectives, gender, skills and abilities. We are also committed to fostering meaningful change within our organisation and community through the implementation and embedding of our Reconciliation Action Plan. 

You can find out more about the great work that we do here.

How to apply

If this role sounds like you, please apply by providing a covering letter specifically addressing the selection criteria together with your CV. Please direct any questions you may have to people@sparkrenewables.com

Safety Manager Read More »

Development Officer

Apply for a Development Officer role at Spark Renewables

  • Be part of an exciting company in the growing renewable energy sector.
  • Manly office with ocean views and an enjoyable hybrid work environment.
  • Permanent, full-time position with great benefits, immediate start.

Spark Renewables is a growing renewable energy company, developing and building projects to lead the renewable energy transition in Australia.  

How we do business matters to us. We pride ourselves in our commitment to do what’s right and we always operate with integrity, transparency, and authenticity. We care about the land we build on, working closely with landowners, local communities, and all levels of government to develop solutions that help decarbonise the energy sector, whilst also driving positive social and environmental outcomes at a local level. 

The opportunity

Reporting directly to our Development Manager and working closely with the whole Development team, you will play a key role in supporting the team across all stages of project development, from early-stage site identification and feasibility assessment, through to securing land agreements, obtaining planning and grid approvals, managing procurement processes, preparing for construction, and progressing projects to financial close.   

This is a hands-on role that offers the opportunity to work closely with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders in a fast-paced and purpose-driven environment.  Some of your duties will include: 

  • Assisting with the preparation, review and submission of environmental assessments and planning documents, and management of external consultants. 
  • Preparing community engagement materials (letters, newsletters, posters) and participating in stakeholder engagement with landowners, community members, First Nations groups, government agencies and other stakeholders. 
  • Undertaking site identification and selection research for renewable energy projects.  
  • Performing due diligence on potential project acquisitions.
  • Supporting and preparing materials for Renewable Energy Zone tenders, Capacity Investment Scheme and Power Purchase Agreement processes.

This wonderful opportunity will give you exposure to all aspects of renewable energy development and the chance to be mentored closely by experienced Development Managers. 

What we’re looking for

  • You will have 1-3 years’ experience in the energy sector with a relevant degree (e.g. planning, environmental science, engineering).
  • You’ll have strong project management skills and be well organised.
  • You’ll have great communication skills to contribute to a range of stakeholder engagement activities.
  • You thrive in a fast-paced environment without compromising attention to detail and the quality of your work.
  • GIS mapping skills are preferred, and ideally hold an Australian Driver’s Licence.
  • And importantly you have a genuine interest in and passion for the renewable energy sector.

Why you’ll love working with us

In our view, our culture is second to none. We are a team of passionate professionals from diverse backgrounds, united by our focus on sustainability and our purpose to build Australia’s renewable energy future. 

Our team is supportive, and we have an open-minded, forward-thinking, and inclusive culture. We offer a range of employee benefits including flexible work arrangements, a hybrid work environment, great office location in Manly with ocean views, and a strong focus on professional development and health and wellbeing.  You also get the opportunity to work on impactful, future-focussed projects and be supported with tools and training to grow in the role. 

Diversity, equity, and inclusion

We are committed to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our company and celebrate difference in all that we do. We believe our people are our greatest asset and by supporting and incorporating their diverse talents, knowledge, perspectives, and experiences we can strengthen our relationships within our community and influence real change. 

We are committed to building a team that represents a wide variety of backgrounds, perspectives, gender, skills and abilities. We are also committed to fostering meaningful change within our organisation and community through the implementation and embedding of our Reconciliation Action Plan. 

You can find out more about the great work that we do here.

How to apply

Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted, so please apply now by providing your CV along with a brief cover letter. We’d love to hear:  

  • Why you’re interested in this role and in Spark Renewables.
  • What relevant skills and experience you would bring.
  • How you’d contribute to our team and the work we do.

Please submit your application and any questions you may have to people@sparkrenewables.com

Development Officer Read More »

Registration of interest via ICN Gateway for Dinawan Wind Stage 1

ICN Gateway open: review and register interest for work packages at Dinawan Wind Stage 1

Spark Renewables has local delivery targets to ensure that the Dinawan Energy Hub contributes positively to the economy, and foster sustainable development and economic growth.

The project will become a long-term user of products and services in the Riverina region and will be spending a significant amount on Australian-sourced content during construction and the project’s 35-year lifespan.

Registration of interest via ICN Gateway for Dinawan Wind Stage 1 Read More »

South West REZ Roadshow May 2025

South West REZ Roadshow: Industry & Community Briefing

We would like to invite you to a briefing session organised for local suppliers and communities in relation to the South West Renewable Energy Zone projects, including the Dinawan Energy Hub being developed by Spark Renewables (as announced here).

The Spark Renewables team will join the ‘South West Major Projects Roadshow’ along with EnergyCo, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, and other project developers.

Separate briefing sessions are available for the industry and communities.

Where and when?

The Spark Renewables team will be presenting at the following sessions. For full details of the program, visit the website of EnergyCo.

Industry briefing sessions (pre-registrations are required):
📍 9.30am-4pm on 27/05 at the Buronga Midway Community Centre
📍 9.30am-12pm on 29/05 at the Deniliquin Golf Club
📍 9:30-12pm on 30/05 at the Griffith Exies Club

Community briefing sessions:
📍 3pm-6.30pm on 28/05 at the Coleambally Community Hall
📍 3pm-6.30pm on 29/05 at the Jerilderie Civic Centre

Why attend?

  • Local businesses; Learn about upcoming work opportunities related to the South West Renewable Energy Zone. It’s an opportunity to meet the industry representatives from renewable energy companies, ask questions and network. Pre-registrations are required. Find out more via EnergyCo here.
  • Community engagement; These information events will provide an opportunity for local residents to be updated on the South West Renewable Energy Zone and hear from the proponents of the projects that have been granted access rights. Find out more via EnergyCo here.

South West REZ Roadshow May 2025 Read More »

On public exhibition: Wattle Creek Energy Hub Environmental Impact Statements

On public exhibition: Wattle Creek Energy Hub Environmental Impact Statements

We are pleased to announce that the Wattle Creek Energy Hub, located north-east of the Marulan township in the NSW Southern Tablelands, has reached a new milestone. Environmental Impact Statements (EISs) have been submitted for two projects:

  1. The standalone Wattle Creek Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) with a 350 megawatt (MW) capacity; and
  2. The hybrid Wattle Creek Solar Farm with a generation capacity of up to 265 MW combined with a 100 MW BESS.

According to legislation, both projects are classified as state significant developments and therefore must submit a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure for development approval.

You can view summaries of both EISs via the links below:

For the full EIS documents, visit the NSW Planning Portal:

Drop-in session

You are welcome to drop in to our information session at any time to meet the Spark Renewables team, view materials and ask questions about the EISs prepared for the Wattle Creek Energy Hub projects. We are hosting face-to-face sessions at: 

The developer of the Wattle Creek Energy Hub is Spark Renewables, which was selected by the University of Sydney to investigate and develop a hybrid renewable energy facility on the University’s Arthursleigh property, a commercially operating farm producing Merino wool and Angus beef. 

Spark Renewables is a leading renewable energy developer, owner and operator, founded in Sydney in 2018. Spark Renewables has a large and diversified portfolio of operational and development stage wind, solar and storage assets across Australia including the operational Bomen Solar Farm near Wagga Wagga. 

On public exhibition: Wattle Creek Energy Hub Environmental Impact Statements Read More »

Find out about Response to submissions at Mildura Field Days

Next public session: Mildura Field Days 2025

Spark Renewables will hold an information stall for the Mallee Wind Farm project at the Mildura Field Days.

Development update

The project is part of the Mallee Energy Hub developed by Spark Renewables, and is located approximately 16 km north-east of Buronga, in the Wentworth Local Government Area.

As a State Significant Development, the Mallee Wind Farm project required a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to be submitted to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI).

An EIS for the Mallee Wind Farm was lodged with DPHI in 2024. A summary of Mallee Wind Farm EIS is also included in the Project Factsheet.

We are now preparing a Response to Submissions with feedback to submissions posted to the EIS. 

Information stall at the Mildura Field Days

You are welcome to drop in to our stall to meet the Spark Renewables team, view materials and ask questions about the Response to Submissions prepared for the Mallee Wind Farm. We are hosting a face-to-face session at:

If you wish to set up a one-on-one meeting or call with Spark Renewables, please email info@malleewindfarm.com or leave a voicemail at 1300 271 419.

Find out about Response to submissions at Mildura Field Days Read More »

Dinawan Energy Hub awarded 1GW Access Rights

Spark Renewables’ Dinawan Energy Hub awarded access rights in the South West REZ

Spark Renewables, a leading Australian developer and owner of renewable energy assets, is delighted to announce that its flagship Dinawan Energy Hub project, located in the South West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), has been awarded ~1 gigawatt (GW) of access rights by EnergyCo. Dinawan Energy Hub is one of four successful projects to be awarded access rights through the competitive process conducted by AEMO Services Limited under the NSW Government’s Renewable Energy Zone access scheme.

Dinawan Energy Hub is adjacent to Transgrid’s Dinawan Substation, providing an advantage through its proximity and direct connection to grid infrastructure, helping to deliver lower costs to energy users and support the state’s transition to a modern, clean energy future.

The Dinawan Energy Hub is set to create around 1,200 construction jobs and over 50 long-term jobs, with a focus on upskilling and apprenticeship opportunities, and First Nations participation.

Spark Renewables has developed a benefit, upskilling and industry program worth over $100 million over the course of the project life, aimed at building community wealth, health and ‘renewables-readiness’.

Anthony Marriner, the CEO of Spark Renewables, said: “We identified the South West REZ as a high-quality opportunity early on in 2021, with excellent wind and solar resources, and well located in the middle of the National Electricity Market, capable of providing electricity to the major load centres. We have always had a high level of conviction relating to the South West REZ. Progressing this REZ is an important step forward in the clean and modern energy transition. Dinawan Energy Hub will create value for communities, businesses and industry partners while delivering reliable and affordable clean energy.”

“Furthermore, we are delighted to be partnering with Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), who have an option to acquire a minority interest at financial close. CIP shares our sustainability ambitions and will be providing key input and support during the development stage.”

Mr Marriner said, “We have local delivery targets to ensure that the Dinawan Energy Hub contributes positively to the economy, ultimately fostering sustainable development and economic growth. The project will become a long-term user of products and services in the Riverina region and will be spending a significant amount on Australian-sourced content during construction and the project’s 35-year lifespan.”

“We have made over 30 commitments that support the clean energy transition through a community fund for local initiatives, advancing First Nations’ accessibility to workforce participation, and next-generation training and education opportunities.”

Spark Renewables is owned by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), the largest listed energy utility company in Southeast Asia, with a market capitalisation of ~A$28 billion.

“Dinawan Energy Hub will make an important contribution towards achieving TNB’s goal of installing 14.3 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity globally by 2050.”

“With TNB’s strategic direction to support energy initiatives globally, and their support for us as a business, we are able to continue our strategy to become a leading independent power producer by pioneering innovative, collaborative and responsible solutions when developing our energy and battery hubs.”

To sign up for project updates or find out more information, visit www.dinawanenergyhub.com.

ENDS

Contact:
info@sparkrenewables.com

Download full media release: Dinawan Energy Hub awarded access rights in the South West REZ

Dinawan Energy Hub awarded 1GW Access Rights Read More »

Dinawan Energy Hub Community Newsletter – April 2025 update

WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that the following webpage and materials linked within contain names and images of deceased persons.

Dinawan Energy Hub Development Manager Alexis Tubb presenting at TAFE NSW in Hay

Download the PDF newsletter here: Dinawan Energy Hub – Community Newsletter #6 – April 2025

The DEH is in the South West Renewable Energy Zone, about halfway between Coleambally and Jerilderie near Transgrid’s Dinawan Substation. The DEH is proposed on the traditional lands of the Wiradjuri people and several smaller nations of the Murrumbidgee plains.

Spark Renewables is a leading developer and long-term owner of renewable energy generation assets, founded and based in Australia. We are owned and backed by the largest electricity utility in Malaysia, Tenaga Nasional Berhad.

Overview of DEH

The proposed DEH would consist of:

  • Up to 200 wind turbines west of Kidman Way
  • A wind farm with capacity of up to 1,200 megawatts (MW)
  • Wind turbines up to 280 meters high
  • A solar farm with generation capacity up to 800 MW
  • Ground-mounted solar photovoltaic modules installed east and west of Kidman Way
  • Grid connection of both projects via the Dinawan Substation (Transgrid’s Project EnergyConnect)
  • Battery energy storage system with a capacity of up to 300 MW

Location

Development Update

Under planning legislation, the Dinawan Wind Farm and the Dinawan Solar Farm are both State Significant Developments, and therefore require an assessment by the NSW Government.

Dinawan Solar Farm: Assessment Phase

The Dinawan Solar Farm Development Application (DA) is currently being evaluated by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI). The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Dinawan Solar Farm was on public exhibition from 17 November to 15 December 2023. The final milestone is the determination of the application.

Planning process of development application

Dinawan Wind Farm: Response to Submissions

A DA and an EIS for the Dinawan Wind Farm was on public exhibition from 12 July to 8 August 2024. We are currently preparing a Response to Submissions along with an Amendment Report, where Spark Renewables responds to the feedback received during the exhibition period. Next will be the assessment phase.

South West REZ Access Rights

The Dinawan Energy Hub is developed within the NSW South West Renewable Energy Zone. All generation and storage projects connecting to a Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) require an Access Right, which authorises projects to apply to connect to the network infrastructure. Access Right holders will contribute access fees that include funds for community benefit and employment purposes in the region. Spark Renewables participated in the competitive process ‘NSW Roadmap – Tender Round 5’ for Access Rights in the South West REZ.

Dinawan Energy Hub is located within the South West REZ, adjacent to the Dinawan Substation (developed by Transgrid)

Community news

Our Approach to Project Development and Engagement

Spark Renewables is a member of the Clean Energy Council (CEC) and supports the Australian Renewable Energy Alliance. As signatory to the commitments outlined in the CEC’s Community Engagement Best Practice Charter for Renewable Energy Developments, Spark Renewables reports annually to disclose:

  • How we engage respectfully with the communities we operate in
  • Our conduct with respect to environmental and cultural values
  • Our approach to minimising impact on agriculture, prioritising co-land use with ‘agrivoltaic’ initiatives
  • Positive contribution to the regions in which we operate

Supporting Clean Energy Transition and Education Opportunities

Ensuring a fair and equitable shift or a ‘just transition’ due to the closure of coal-fired power stations is an important goal of the South West Renewable Energy Zone. As part of the DEH, Spark Renewables has developed over 30 benefit sharing, training, and upskilling initiatives that foster community wealth building and support longevity.

As well as upskilling existing jobs within the energy industry, we are also working with Training Services and TAFE in NSW for early engagement in the educational pathway. As part of this collaboration, the Spark Renewables team presented to students at TAFE in Hay and Leeton about industry opportunities. For more career opportunities in renewable energy, visit the webpage of Education NSW.

Winners of the DEH Pilot Program

Spark Renewables announced the winners of the Dinawan Pilot Grant Program, awarding $20,000 to support eight community-initiated projects. This program builds on the $31,000 of funding provided to community sponsorships.

Under the Pilot Program grants were awarded to:

  • ‘Bringing back the reeds’ biodiversity restoration and community clean-up program (Yanco Creek and Tributaries Advisory Council)
  • Upgrading the children’s outdoor playground (Coleambally Community Club)
  • Reconnecting kids to community and ancestral culture (Marrambidya Dance Group)
  • Critical sterilisation medical equipment (Cypress View Lodge Aged Care Home)
  • Installing a heating and cooling system in the children’s area (Jerilderie Football Netball Club)
  • Jerilderie ‘Kids Go Fishing Day’ (Jerilderie Fishing Club)
  • Providing financial assistance towards students’ education costs (Country Education Foundation of Coleambally-Darlington Point)
  • Publishing of a book to bring inclusion to children living with disability (author of Aurora’s Whisper Ms Kayla Sipou)

The Pilot Grant Program is the forerunner to the long-term benefit sharing scheme, worth over $60 million, proposed to run from the start of construction and throughout the operational life of the DEH. The final size of the community benefit sharing program will be based on the approved and constructed size of the project.

Partnership with the Griffith LALC

Spark Renewables proudly partnered with the Griffith Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC) to seize opportunities for the Aboriginal community through the DEH in the South West Renewable Energy Zone. The focus of the partnership is to identify opportunities for mutual benefit, collaboration, training and employment pathway co-design. One of the ways Spark Renewables has agreed to do that is by requiring its major works construction contractors to consult Griffith LALC on labour hire matters.

Acknowledgment and Honours

Recognising that the communities of Wagga Wagga and Narrandera are grieving the recent passing of respected community leaders, a Wiradjuri man Uncle James Ingram and Wiradjuri Yorta Yorta woman Shaurntae Lyons, we would like to acknowledge their contribution in helping Spark Renewables to connect with First Nations communities, guide us on our pathway to reconciliation, and help to create a vision for a stronger community, together.

Our thoughts are with everyone whose lives their work touched. Their loss has left a deep void, but it will not change the force of good on which their hearts were set – helping those in need and supporting everyone to be stronger. It was an honour to have worked with Uncle James and to have Shaurntae as a big part of our team.

Dinawan Energy Hub Community Newsletter – April 2025 update Read More »