Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef and Minister for Science and Youth Affairs

The Honourable Meaghan Scanlon

Community groups keen to take part in Queensland’s renewable industrial revolution are being encouraged to put their hand up, with funding on the table to purchase and install cheaper, cleaner energy.

Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon today announced $3 million would be on offer for community-based organisations to help them take climate action by installing batteries, solar panels and other energy-efficient systems that will also help them reduce their power bills.

“The Palaszczuk Government has announced the most ambitious action on climate change and renewables in our state’s history, and Queensland community groups are eager to do their bit too,” Minister Scanlon said.

“Queensland’s $62 billion energy and jobs plan will see emissions from energy cut by 90 per cent by 2035, more than 700,000 households and small businesses have installed rooftop solar, and now the cornerstones of our communities can take part in the action.

It follows the government recently awarding funding for close to 40 community groups across the state for renewables and energy efficient devices, including the Cairns BMX Club, which Minister Scanlon visited today.

The Cairns BMX Club received $30,000 to purchase and install solar panels and a battery at their clubhouse.

“Our community groups do such great work with the services they provide, and through this funding they’ll be able to install renewable energy systems such as solar panels or small-scale wind generators, purchase energy efficient hot water systems or whitegoods, or replace lighting with energy efficient alternatives.”

Funding will open in coming days, with details on how to apply to be published on the DES website.

For more information on how the Palaszczuk Government is investing in renewables and climate action head to: https://www.des.qld.gov.au/climateaction

ENDS

Media contact: Francis Dela Cruz - 0420 592 078