NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway today announced more than $1.5 million for Cabonne Shire Council to plan, build and install a mid-scale solar and battery plant at Eugowra.
Mr Farraway said the funding would ensure council could meet its 50 per cent renewable energy target by 2030.
"The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is committing to improving daily life for all through strategic infrastructure investments," said Mr Faraway.
"Thanks to this grant, the Cabonne Shire Council can now construct and run a mid-sized solar and battery facility in Eugowra, bringing down energy expenses for council-owned buildings.
"This exciting development benefits the whole community and showcases the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government's unwavering commitment to delivering projects that enhance our communities and boost our local economies."
Cabonne Shire Council Mayor Kevin Beatty said "This renewable energy project plans to create and develop regional jobs, stabilise the energy distribution network, and provide Cabonne Council, and all Central NSW Joint Organisation Councils, additional power to meet their 50% renewable energy target by 2030 or earlier."
"The project will fund electricity costs across all of Council's 85 sites, which will result in lower hiring fees for community and sporting group accessing these facilities, and help to position the region as a leader in sustainability," Cr Beatty said.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said Resources for Regions has delivered 355 projects worth $560 million to mining communities since its inception in 2012, stimulating local economies and delivering critical infrastructure.
"The Resources for Regions program is about giving back to these mining communities that contribute so much to the NSW economy," Mr Toole said.
"It's absolutely crucial we continue to support regional mining towns that supply our State with the resources needed to keep the lights on and the economy moving forward, and this program is just another example of the NSW Government's commitment to the future of our mining regions."
Since 2012, Resources for Regions has supported economic and social prosperity in mining communities in regional NSW, with the $140 million Round Nine expanded to support communities where gas exploration or mining may occur.
The $560 million Resources for Regions is part of the NSW Government's $3.3 billion Regional Growth Fund, designed to support growing regional centres, activate local economies and improve services and infrastructure for regional communities.
Media Release courtesy of Hon Sam Farraway MLC
