A new federal government program to help organisations improve their energy efficiency and lower power bills will open for applications on 1 July.
The $10.2 million Powering Communities Program will fund up to 12 projects worth a total of $67,700 in every federal electorate.
Grants of between $5000 and $12,000 will be available to eligible community organisations or entities with responsibility for a community asset or property. No co-contribution is required.
The grants are intended to enable the installation of solar panels or a battery, the purchase of energy-efficient air conditioners, hot water systems or refrigerators, or the installation of LED lighting. Energy audits will also be supported.
Federal Members of Parliament will identify the projects to be supported in their electorate, with input from local community committees.
MPs will have until 6 September to nominate community groups that will then be invited to submit an expression of interest.
After the EOI process, each federal MP, informed by the community consultation panel, will nominate projects and invite groups to apply for the grant funding.
Applications will be assessed by the federal Department of Industry, Science, Energy, and Resources for eligibility and completeness.
Click here for more information, including eligibility guidelines, or call 13 28 46.