For immediate release 1 November 2024
BERRIGAN SHIRE SECURES LONG -TERM RENEWABLE ELECTRICTY SUPPLY CONTRACT THROUGH POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT
Berrigan Shire Council is thrilled to announce it has secured a renewable electricity supply agreement with Iberdrola Australia through to the end of 2030, as part of a buyer’s group facilitating a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for 13 regional councils in New South Wales.
The agreements secure the supply of over 390 gigawatt hours of electricity to 163 large council sites and streetlighting across regional NSW, ensuring consistent and reliable energy for essential infrastructure. Berrigan Shire has opted for 100% renewable energy under the PPA.
The Powering Tomorrow: Regional Councils NSW PPA was co-ordinated by the Hunter Joint Organisation and Mid North Coast Joint Organisation, along with advisors Sourced Energy, Regional Procurement, Procure Group and Baker Mackenzie. By collaborating, the participating councils increased their collective buying power to secure a competitive deal and reduced the procurement costs by sharing resources and fees.
By participating in the PPA, Berrigan Shire Council will benefit in several ways:
Emissions Reduction: By opting for 100% renewable energy to power our large sites and streetlighting, we will avoid an estimated 2,638 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions (t/CO2e). Securing renewable energy through this deal helps us to decarbonise council operations and aligns us with local, state and national net zero targets.
Cost savings and budget certainty: By purchasing as a group, we have been able to lock in renewable electricity at a competitive price through to the end of 2030, saving Council an estimated $126,156 over the duration of the agreement (compared with current electicity cost). The deal also shields council from volatility in the electricty market that can unexpectedly increase council’s costs, giving us long-term budget certainty.
Supporting the Local Economy: Renewable energy purchased under this deal will come from NSW power stations, the Capital Wind Farm, the Avonlie Solar Farm and the Bodangora Wind Farm, supporting the economy of regional NSW by creating jobs and fostering the growth of new energy sectors. This commitment contributes to the development of sustainable energy future throughout NSW.
“This agreement represents a significant milestone for our council. By securing renewable energy at a stable price through to 2030, we are not only safeguarding our budget, but also advancing our commitment to sustainability,” said Mayor Julia Cornwell McKean. “It shows what councils can achieve when working together. We extend our gratitude to the Hunter Joint Organisation and Mid North Coast Joint Organisation and our advisory team for their efforts in making this possible.”
The Powering Tomorrow: Regional Councils NSW PPA exemplifies the power of collaboration and forward thinking in addressing energy challenges faced by regional councils. This initiative not only benefits Berrigan Shire Council, but also serves as a model for other councils seeking similar stability and sustainability.
ENDS
Further information:
Keelan McDonald
Communications, Marketing and Engagement
Berrigan Shire Council