Queensland residents in First Nations and storm-prone regional communities can now apply for funding to increase their energy independence and resilience through stand-alone electricity microgrids. The initiative is part of the Palaszczuk Government's Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.
The Queensland Microgrid Pilot Fund, a new $10 million program, aims to accelerate the development of advanced, resilient power in various regions of Queensland. Minister Mick de Brenni announced the release of guidelines and the opening of applications, highlighting the program's focus on supporting innovation for more reliable energy, job creation and improved resilience to extreme weather.
The two-year programme will provide grants to off-grid communities for shovel-ready microgrid projects or assistance in developing future projects through feasibility studies. The aim is to enable communities to take advantage of Queensland's clean energy revolution, incorporating new renewable generation and storage, while contributing to the decarbonisation of regional Queensland.
Assistant Minister for the 50% Renewable Energy Target by 2030, Lance McCallum, highlighted the importance of the program to Indigenous communities, highlighting the unique benefits microgrids can bring to these communities in terms of energy independence and resilience.
Microgrids provide the ability to quickly restore or maintain power during grid outages caused by extreme weather events, making them critical for regional and remote areas. The initiative is in line with the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan's commitment to deliver cheaper, cleaner and more secure energy for Queenslanders.
Grants ranging from $250,000 for feasibility studies to up to $5 million for the construction of microgrid projects are available to support the program's objectives and eligibility criteria.