Community energy groups and not-for-profit organisations in the Illawarra and across NSW can apply for grants up to $600,000 to scale up their work helping households adopt renewable technologies, access incentives and rebates, improve energy efficiency and navigate the switch to cleaner, smarter energy solutions.
Funding will support activities such as:
- community education workshops
- face-to-face sessions offering energy guidance tailored to individual needs
- adapting and delivering existing energy education initiatives to a wider audience
- development of digital tools or resources that help consumers find energy solutions
- dedicated staff roles to deliver trusted local guidance and support
- development of marketing and communication materials to reach households
- delivering other innovative or alternative activities that address specific needs of their local community.
The program is part of the NSW Government's Consumer Energy Strategy, which places households and small businesses at the centre of the state's clean energy transition.
It builds on the early planning for the Illawarra Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), to increase the capacity of community energy groups and not-for-profit organisations to help residents and play a stronger role in the REZ.
It will help residents better understand and adopt technologies such as rooftop solar, batteries, efficient appliances and home electrification, resources that will ultimately integrate into the evolving Illawarra energy system.
Applications for Community Energy Activation Program grants are now open and will close at 5pm on Monday 16 February 2026.
Community energy groups and not-for-profit organisations that support NSW household energy consumers are encouraged to apply. An online information webinar will be held at 11am on Tuesday 9 December 2025.
