Applications open for Community Energy Activation Program (Australia)

The NSW Climate and Energy Action’s Community Energy Activation Program offers grants ranging from $150,000 to $600,000 to Australian not-for-profit organisations and recognised Community Energy Groups. The program supports initiatives that help communities manage energy use, reduce household costs, increase clean energy adoption, and deliver practical consumer guidance. Eligible applicants must operate within New South Wales and demonstrate capacity to implement community-led energy programs.

Overview of the Program

The Community Energy Activation Program aims to empower communities to participate in the clean energy transition. By providing trusted information, practical support, and access to energy-saving solutions, the program seeks to lower household energy bills, reduce emissions, and improve resilience against rising electricity costs.

Key Objectives

• Support community-led energy education and activation initiatives.

• Improve access to energy-saving technologies such as solar, batteries, and efficiency products.

• Raise awareness of rebates, incentives, and energy efficiency programs.

• Strengthen community engagement and partnerships in the energy sector.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Australian-based not-for-profit organisations established to advocate for household energy consumers or promote energy benefits.

• Recognised Community Energy Groups.

• Organisations must be properly constituted, have an ABN, be financially solvent, and capable of entering into a funding deed.

Exclusions:

• Individuals, local councils, government agencies, for-profit businesses, energy product suppliers and retailers, unincorporated associations, and organisations based outside NSW.

Funding Details

• Total Funding Pool: $5 million.

• Grant Range: $150,000 – $600,000.

• Larger grants are available for organisations demonstrating:

  • Strong delivery capacity.

  • Broad geographic reach.

  • Meaningful partnerships.

• Funded activities must be delivered entirely within NSW and benefit NSW communities.

Program Requirements

• Public Liability Insurance: Minimum $20 million coverage.

• Professional Indemnity Insurance: Minimum $5 million per claim for organisations providing consumer guidance or recommendations.

• Demonstrated expertise and qualified staff for providing accurate energy guidance.

• All projects must provide measurable outcomes, including reduced energy bills, increased adoption of clean energy solutions, and enhanced community awareness.

How to Apply / How It Works

1. Develop a Proposal: Outline objectives, target communities, and planned activities.

2. Prepare Budget and Partnerships: Include a detailed budget and list any partner organisations.

3. Demonstrate Capability: Provide evidence of organisational capacity, qualified staff, and insurance coverage.

4. Submit Application: Complete the application process via the NSW Climate and Energy Action portal.

5. Assessment: Applications will be evaluated on community impact, feasibility, delivery capacity, and alignment with program objectives.

6. Funding Agreement: Successful applicants will enter into a funding deed with reporting and accountability requirements.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Clearly demonstrate how your project will reduce household energy costs.

• Highlight community engagement and outreach strategies.

• Include plans to leverage existing rebates, incentives, and programs.

• Show measurable outcomes and evaluation methods.

• Establish strong partnerships to maximize reach and effectiveness.

FAQ

1. Who can apply for funding?
Australian-based not-for-profit organisations and recognised Community Energy Groups operating in NSW.

2. What is the minimum and maximum grant amount?
Grants range from $150,000 to $600,000.

3. Are for-profit businesses or councils eligible?
No, individuals, councils, government agencies, for-profit businesses, and organisations outside NSW cannot apply.

4. What insurance coverage is required?
Public Liability Insurance of at least $20 million. Organisations providing guidance must also have Professional Indemnity Insurance of $5 million per claim.

5. Can projects include solar or battery installations?
Yes, projects can provide access to energy-saving technologies, including solar, batteries, and efficiency solutions.

6. Do funded activities need to be completed within NSW?
Yes, all activities must deliver direct benefits exclusively to NSW consumers and communities.

7. What is the focus of the program?
The program focuses on education, community engagement, energy efficiency, cost reduction, and adoption of clean energy solutions.

Conclusion

The Community Energy Activation Program empowers NSW communities to adopt energy-saving practices, reduce household costs, and participate in the clean energy transition. By supporting not-for-profit organisations and Community Energy Groups with grants, expertise, and partnerships, the program strengthens community capacity, builds resilience, and ensures practical benefits from cleaner, more affordable energy.