Berrigan Shire Council has secured a renewable electricity supply agreement with Iberdrola Australia through to the end of 2030.

It is part of a buyer’s group facilitating a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for 13 regional councils in NSW.

The agreements secure the supply of over 390 gigawatt hours of electricity to 163 large council sites and street lighting across regional NSW, ensuring consistent and reliable energy for essential infrastructure.

Berrigan Shire has opted for 100 per cent renewable energy under the PPA.

Powering Tomorrow: Regional Councils NSW PPA was co-ordinated by the Hunter Joint Organisation and Mid North Coast Joint Organisation, along with advisors Sourced Energy, Regional Procurement, Procure Group and Baker Mackenzie.

Mayor Julia Cornwell McKean said by collaborating, the participating councils increased their collective buying power to secure a competitive deal and reduced the procurement costs by sharing resources and fees.

“This agreement represents a significant milestone for our council,” she said.

“By securing renewable energy at a stable price through to 2030, we are not only safeguarding our budget, but also advancing our commitment to sustainability.

“It shows what councils can achieve when working together.

“We extend our gratitude to the Hunter Joint Organisation and Mid North Coast Joint Organisation and our advisory team for their efforts in making this possible.”

“The Powering Tomorrow: Regional Councils NSW PPA exemplifies the power of collaboration and forward thinking in addressing energy challenges faced by regional councils.

“This initiative not only benefits Berrigan Shire Council, but also serves as a model for other councils seeking similar stability and sustainability.”

By participating in the PPA, Berrigan Shire Council will benefit in several ways:

• Emissions reduction: By opting for 100 per cent renewable energy to power large sites and street lighting, council will avoid an estimated 2,638 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions (t/CO2e). Securing renewable energy through this deal also helps council to decarbonise operations and aligns it with local, state and national net zero targets.

• Cost savings and budget certainty: By purchasing as a group, participating councils have been able to lock in renewable electricity at a competitive price through to the end of 2030, saving Berrigan Shire an estimated $126,156 over the duration of the agreement (compared with current electricity cost). The deal also shields council from volatility in the electricity market, which can unexpectedly increase council’s costs and create long-term budget certainty.

• Supporting the local economy: Renewable energy purchased under this deal will come from NSW power stations - the Capital Wind Farm, Avonlie Solar Farm and Bodangora Wind Farm - thus supporting the economy of regional NSW by creating jobs and fostering the growth of new energy sectors. This commitment contributes to the development of sustainable energy future throughout NSW.

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Thursday, 19th September 2024

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