A new Federal Government grants program can help community groups slash their power bills by installing solar systems or upgrading equipment to more energy-efficient models (Photo: Ergon Energy)

April 1, 2021

A new Federal Government grant program is encouraging community groups to cut their energy costs and help the environment … but they must act quickly.

The Powering Communities Program will fund up to 12 projects worth a total of $67,000 in each of the three Federal electorates that cover the South Burnett (ie Maranoa, Flynn and Wide Bay).

Grants of between $5000 and $12,000 will be available to eligible community organisations with no co-contribution required.

The grants will help not-for-profit groups lower their power bills by installing solar panels or a battery; upgrade air conditioners, hot water systems or a refrigerator to more energy-efficient models; replace lighting with LEDs; or conduct an energy audit.

Expressions of Interest (EOI) to take part in the Powering Communities Program will need to be emailed or phoned to the relevant electorate office by the end of the month (see dates further below)

EOI’s will then be assessed by the MP along with a committee that represents the local community, after which successful EOI’s will be advised and invited to submit a formal application.

Formal applications for the grants will then open on July 1 and need to be submitted by September 20.

Successful applicants will be notified later this year, and funds will need to be acquitted by June 30, 2022.

Further information about the program – including eligibility guidelines – is available at business.gov.au or by phoning 13-28-46.

Related links:

  • Flynn Electorate Office (Ken O’Dowd) – (07) 4972-5465 or send email (deadline: April 13)
  • Wide Bay Electorate Office (Llew O’Brien) – (07) 4121-2936 or send email (deadline: April 30)
  • Maranoa Electorate Office (David Littleproud) – (07) 4661-2494 or send email (deadline: unknown)

[UPDATED]


 

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