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Winton Solar Farm Community Grants Program returns in 2024

September 1, 2024

Winton Solar Farm’s Community Grants Program is returning in 2024 to support the community and make a positive contribution to the region, with applications to open next week

The program is part of FRV’s commitment to social development in the communities and markets where it operates – not only through clean energy generation, but also through ongoing contributions to society and the environment. Local grants, partnerships, and the employment of local workers and suppliers continue to play a central role in delivering on this commitment.

Launched in 2020, the Community Grants Program is now into its fourth year.

The last round of the program saw five local community groups awarded a share of $35,000. Grants were used to install new bus shelters in Benalla, upgrade kitchen appliances at Molyullah Hall and Benalla Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club and improve emergency response equipment at Glenrowan CFA and Winton CFA.

Up to $30,000 will be granted again this year to fund projects and initiatives that improve the liveability and vitality of the region and deliver positive outcomes for the community.

To date, FRV Australia has contributed over $180,000 to the community through grants and partnerships, supporting important local projects and initiatives. FRV Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Carlo Frigerio, said he is looking forward to continuing the Project’s support of community-led initiatives in 2024.

“FRV is proud to have worked in partnership with several local community organisations over the past four years of the Winton Solar Farm Community Grants Program. We have been thrilled with the positive response to the program so far,” he said.

“We look forward to welcoming another round of strong applications this year as we continue to share the benefits of renewable energy development with the broader community.”

Applications for the 2024 Winton Solar Farm Community Grants Program will open next Monday 9 September. Community groups looking to deliver positive environmental outcomes, skills and training opportunities, and public health, safety, and wellbeing initiatives are invited to apply.

Winton Solar Farm contributes around 200,000MWh/Year to the National Electricity Market, which is enough clean energy to power 52,000 homes every year. In recent years, the 250-hectare site has also been used for agricultural purposes with 600 sheep grazing the site, helping to maintain grass levels.

More information and copies of the Winton Solar Farm Grant application form are available at www.wintonsolarfarm.com.

 

FRV Updates

Bernard Briggs Pre-school is expected to save around $1500 a year on electricity, thanks to some newly installed solar panels.

Benalla Hockey Club and Glenrowan Primary School have been hard at work upgrading sports equipment and school facilities. Both have been recipients of the recent Community Grants Program, with funding allocated to support community lead initiatives.

MOREE SOLAR FARM

Moree Solar Farm began operations in 2016 and was the first large-scale solar project in Australia to use a single-axis tracking system.

 

Lilyvale Solar Farm near Emerald, Queensland (100MW)

Financial close of the Lilyvale Solar Farm was achieved during September 2017 with operations expected to commence in 2018. The project will benefit from a PPA with Ergon Energy, the QLD-government owned retailer, part of the Energy Queensland group, who will purchase 100% of the electricity generated by the project.