Antinuclear

Byron Bay to get Australia’s first community-owned clean energy generator?

Byron Bay residents push for Australia’s first community-owned clean energy generator, ABC News By Kerry Brewster , 26 Nov 14 Australia’s first community-owned clean energy generator and retailer is taking shape in the counter-culture capital of Australia.

Known for its alternative lifestyles, the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales is hoping to establish a not-for-profit energy company – Northern Rivers Energy – to rival the big retailers………

Northern Rivers Energy wants to attract 20,000 members, who would be able to buy, generate or invest in the enterprise.

After a feasibility study funded by the NSW Government is completed, a series of public meetings will begin.

Ms Crook has little doubt the people of the Northern Rivers will seize the opportunity to take control of their energy production………..

Rooftop solar and other renewables attractive for communities

With a surge predicted in rooftop solar and other power sources, renewable energy expert Giles Parkinson said consumers should expect profound change to electricity systems.

“The traditional domination by the three big retailers, that’s something of the past. How it evolves will be very interesting to see but certainly community ownership and the community-owned retailer is one of those options and we’ve seen it happen in Germany and other parts of Europe where it’s very powerful because you have people grouping together,” Mr Parkinson said.

“They’re not trying to make massive profits and they’re responding to what the people want to do.”……..

John Truman, manager of civil services for Ballina Shire Council, said his was one local council keen to get involved.

“We’re very interested in renewable energy sources so the opportunity to talk to anybody to assist in our future projects is something we’d be very interested in,” Mr Truman said. http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-11-27/byron-bay-pushes-for-community-owned-clean-energy/5920272

November 29, 2014 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | energy, New South Wales