Spark Renewables

Women in Renewables at Bomen Solar Farm Receives Climate Council Choice Award

Bomen Solar Farm /

‘Women in Renewables’ program at the Bomen Solar Farm receives Climate Council Choice Award

Today, the Climate Council announced the winners of their Choice Award from across Australia. Spark Renewables is honoured to be among the recipients, recognised for the ‘Women in Solar’ program at the Bomen Solar Farm near Wagga Wagga, NSW.

According to the Climate Council, Australia’s fossil fuel industry is dominated by men – only 23% of people working in coal and gas are women. The proportion of women in renewables is already much higher, at around 39%, and the industry is working hard to make sure women are benefiting from the employment opportunities that come with the switch to a power system free of climate pollution.

During the construction of our Bomen Solar Farm, Beon Energy Solutions, and Bomen Solar Farm’s EPC Contractor, partnered with Chandler Macleod to implement the ‘Women in Solar’ program to encourage women to work in the construction of large-scale solar farms. This initiative enabled training and qualifying of 12 local women in solar panel installation; including single mothers, Aboriginal women and women who were long-term unemployed.

The majority of these women continue to work in the industry, and Spark Renewables is continuing its the community employment program on other projects.

Spark Renewables is proud to be recognised for demonstrating how the industry can combat traditional barriers to employment in the energy sector by directly helping women gain new skills, experience, and qualifications for future employment.

Generation from the Bomen Solar Farm powers around 36,000 Australian homes, while also delivering meaningful benefits to all parts of the community including women and young people. Other initiatives we are proud to have as part of the $1 million Bomen Solar Farm Community Fund include:

  • The Transition Program and the Girls at the Centre program at Mount Austin High School in Wagga Wagga empowering young students to set themselves up for success later in life.
  • Tree plantings and biodiversity projects.
  • Installation of solar panels on housing for people in care to help lower their power bills.
  • Beehives hosted by Wagga Wagga beekeepers.
  • A flock of over a thousand Merino wethers grazing at the solar farm.

Watch the video here:

Women in Renewables at Bomen Solar Farm Receives Climate Council Choice Award Read More »

Supporting Clean Energy Transition and Education Opportunities

Dinawan Energy Hub /

Spark Renewables 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 Dinawan Energy Hub, 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 NSW Training Services and TAFE in NSW for early engagement in the educational pathway.

For more career opportunities in renewable energy visit here.

The Spark Renewables team presented to students at TAFE in Hay and Leeton about industry opportunities.

Supporting Clean Energy Transition and Education Opportunities Read More »

Development update: Preparing a Response to Submissions and Amendment Report for the Dinawan Wind Farm

Dinawan Energy Hub /

Preparing a Response to Submissions and Amendment Report for the Dinawan Wind Farm

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 Wind Farm: Response to Submissions

A Development Application (DA) and an Environmental Impact Statement (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.

Planning portal: Dinawan Wind Farm

Dinawan Solar Farm: Assessment Phase

The Dinawan Solar Farm DA is currently being evaluated by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI). The 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 portal: dinawan solar farm
Planning process of development application

Development update: Preparing a Response to Submissions and Amendment Report for the Dinawan Wind Farm Read More »

Information Session – Mallee Wind Farm EIS

Mallee Energy Hub /

Information Session – Mallee Wind Farm Environmental Impact Statement

Spark Renewables is holding a community consultation session for the Mallee Wind Farm project, which reached an important milestone.

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 requires 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 November 2024, and is available for view and comment from Wednesday, 13 November until Tuesday, 10 December 2024. A summary of Mallee Wind Farm EIS studies is also included in the Project Factsheet.

Information session at the Midway Centre

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 EIS prepared for the Mallee Wind Farm. We are hosting a face-to-face session at:

📍 Location: Midway Centre, 6 Midway Drive, Buronga
📅 Date: 28 November 2024
🕒 Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

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.

Information Session – Mallee Wind Farm EIS Read More »

Best Practice Report to the Clean Energy Council

Spark Renewables /

Spark Renewables’ Best Practice Report to the Clean Energy Council

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; and
  • Positive contribution to the regions in which we operate.

Spark Renewables disclosed its report for the 12 months ended 30 June 2024 to the CEC. Read the report here.

Best Practice Report to the Clean Energy Council Read More »

Wiradjuri Warriors at the Koori Knockout 2024 semi-finals

Dinawan Energy Hub /

Go Wiradjuri Warriors!

The energy and excitement of the 30,000+ crowd at the Koori Knockout 2024 was palpable. 

Congratulations to the Wiradjuri Warriors for reaching the semi-finals! The Wiradjuri Warriors are more than just a sports team. They are a vital force in strengthening community bonds and passing on cultural knowledge to younger generations.

At Spark Renewables, our sponsorship reflects our commitment to creating generational change through sharing benefits with and empowering the local Aboriginal community.

For example, at our Dinawan Energy Hub in the South West Renewable Energy Zone, we have co-designed a benefit-sharing and capacity-building plan spanning 30+ years, including:

  • First Nations community fund
  • Funding rooftop solar and BESS systems for elders
  • Clean energy scholarships, apprenticeships and internships
  • Career development and leadership training
  • Capacity building, skills training and pre-employment qualification to enable employment
  • Procurement from First-Nations owned businesses

Running for over 50 years, the NSW Aboriginal Rugby League tournament has grown to become one of the largest gatherings of Indigenous people in Australia, celebrating culture, community, and sport.

Wiradjuri Warriors at the Koori Knockout 2024 semi-finals Read More »

Griffith Local Aboriginal Land Council

Dinawan Energy Hub /

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.

Together with Shaurntae Lyons, Alexis Tubb, and Julian Kasby, Spark Renewables presented its Aboriginal Participation Plan and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the CEO of Griffith LALC, Steve Young.

We look forward to collaborating to create training and employment opportunities, and bring business to the local area.

Griffith Local Aboriginal Land Council Read More »

Dinawan Solar Farm Response to Submissions

Dinawan Energy Hub /

 Response to Submissions for the Dinawan Solar Farm project

We are thrilled to announce that we have submitted our Response to Submissions for the Dinawan Solar Farm project at the Dinawan Energy Hub.

One of our top priorities has been biodiversity, focusing on wildlife protection and preserving the Weeping Myall woodlands.

In preparing our Response, we could point to Spark Renewables’ track record at Bomen Solar Farm, with careful management of weed control and commitment to biodiversity showcasing our nature-positive impacts.

The key take-away in planning this project was creating solutions for compatibility of solar farms with native plants and animals.

Spark Renewables partners with landowners early on in the development phase to support sustainable farming and incorporate agrisolar initiatives. Our Bomen Solar Farm hosts 1,000-2,000 Merino wethers and dry ewes to control vegetation growth.  

Traffic and transport management, and bushfire management during the construction and operational phases have been key focus areas.

We have consulted closely with Transport for NSW, NSW Rural Fire Service and Murrumbidgee Council, who provided invaluable feedback to plan for smooth operations.

The next step will be the assessment phase by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI).

Dinawan Solar Farm Response to Submissions Read More »

Spark Renewables Announces Winners of $20,000 Dinawan Energy Hub Pilot Grant Program

Dinawan Energy Hub, Uncategorized /

Spark Renewables Announces Winners of $20,000 Dinawan Energy Hub Pilot Grant Program

Spark Renewables has announced the winners of the Pilot Grant Program, awarding $20,000 to support eight community-initiated projects. The program is associated with the development of the Dinawan Energy Hub, a landmark 2.3 gigawatt renewable energy project located in the South West Renewable Energy Zone in NSW, incorporating a wind farm, solar farm, and a battery energy storage project.

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 Dinawan Energy Hub. The final size of the community benefit sharing program will be based on the approved and constructed size of the project.

Spark Renewables has been actively engaging with the host councils, Murrumbidgee Council and Edward River Council, and the local community to ensure a positive impact on nearby townships as the Dinawan Energy Hub is progressed. The long-term benefit sharing scheme includes multiple initiatives such as a community fund, a dedicated fund for First Nations initiatives, subsidies for electricity and solar/battery systems for project neighbours and contributions to priority capital works developments identified by the local Councils.

Similar programs are being explored at the Mallee Energy Hub and Wattle Creek Energy Hub, also being developed by Spark Renewables.

Beyond financial contributions, Spark Renewables is committed to leveraging its expertise and resources to provide training, employment, and upskilling opportunities, helping local communities thrive in the growing renewable energy sector.

“The high level of interest in the Grant Pilot Program and the quality of proposals highlight the enthusiasm, creativity, and passion within the Riverina communities,” said Will Stone, Head of Development at Spark Renewables.

“Choosing between 16 applicants requesting $80,000 was very challenging, but we are excited to support eight projects that will make a positive difference in community health, wellbeing, social inclusion, cultural storytelling, and protecting the environment.”

Spark Renewables has awarded grants ranging between $1,500 and $3,000 from the Pilot Grant Program towards:

  1. “Bringing back the reeds” biodiversity restoration and community clean-up program organised by Yanco Creek and Tributaries Advisory Council;
  2. Upgrading the children’s outdoor playground at the Coleambally Community Club;
  3. Transportation and accommodation support for Marrambidya Dance Group with the aim of reconnecting kids to community and ancestral culture;
  4. Critical sterilisation medical equipment for the Cypress View Lodge aged care home;
  5. Installing a heating and cooling system in the children’s area at the Jerilderie Football Netball Club;
  6. Jerilderie Kids Go Fishing Day (November 2024) hosted by the Jerilderie Fishing Club to promote awareness of healthy waterways amongst families;
  7. Country Education Foundation of Coleambally-Darlington Point to provide financial assistance towards students’ education costs such as accommodation, text books, and uniforms; and
  8. Publishing of a book by the local Coleambally author of Aurora’s Whisper, bringing inclusion to children living with disability.

“While not all applicants were successful, we’ve established valuable connections with those applicants and we hope to support their projects as part of the Dinawan Energy Hub benefit sharing program in the future,” added Mr. Stone.

“Our experience at Bomen Solar Farm, where we set up the country’s largest solar farm community fund (of one million dollars) established in collaboration with Westpac in 2020, has shown the importance of connecting with people and organisations who are passionate about making a positive change in their community.”

“This scheme has helped to connect with several organisations raising funds for locally important matters, which we hope to sponsor in the coming years.”

ENDS

Contact:
Will Stone, Head of Development

Download the full media release here: Spark Renewables Announces Winners of $20,000 Dinawan Energy Hub Pilot Grant Program

Spark Renewables Announces Winners of $20,000 Dinawan Energy Hub Pilot Grant Program Read More »

Seeking input on the community benefit sharing program for the Wattle Creek Energy Hub

Wattle Creek Energy Hub /

Seeking input on the community benefit sharing program for the Wattle Creek Energy Hub

We are seeking input from the local community on a benefit sharing program associated with the proposed Wattle Creek Energy Hub, a proposed solar farm and battery energy storage system (BESS) near Marulan, NSW, situated on the University of Sydney’s Arthursleigh property. We have launched a short survey and encourage everyone to have a say!

Based on the proposed solar farm size of 265 megawatts (MW), the funding available would be over $200,000 per year, amounting to around $7 million over the 30+ year construction and operation period of the energy hub.

This funding aligns with the recommended contribution outlined in the NSW Draft Solar Benefit Sharing Guidelines, which suggests $850 per installed megawatt per annum for a solar generation facility.

Following the initial annual payments, all subsequent payments will be adjusted in accordance with the Consumer Price Index, as determined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, to mitigate the effects of inflation.

The funding would be provided on an annual basis, commencing at the start of construction and linked to the final size of the project. The ultimate size of the project will depend on a number of factors, including outcomes of the planning assessment process and subsequent conditions of consent, grid connection approval, detailed design, and project finance.

The aim of the community benefit sharing program will be to deliver long-lasting social, economic and environmental benefits to the local communities we become a part of. At Spark Renewables, we recognise that every local community is different, which is why we take a location-based approach, working with each community to co-design a benefit sharing program that meets the unique needs of that particular location.

Spark Renewables is seeking community views on how the funds should be distributed, specifically between the council projects, neighbouring residents and the broader community. 

Take the survey now

Seeking input on the community benefit sharing program for the Wattle Creek Energy Hub Read More »