Local energy behind Junee Community Power Project

More than 40 residents and business owners attended the council-run forum, looking to combat record-high energy prices with more sustainable options.

“It’s about getting people confident and knowledgeable so they can move forward and make these important energy decisions,” Mayor Neil Smith said.

Council hope to establish a voluntary committee. 

“We want this to be driven by a passionate group who believe in the cause.”

Cr Smith said it’s up to the committee to decide exactly what they will do, but possible duties include assessing individual energy use to identify areas where residents could save, group tender solar power projects and information sharing.

NSW consumers were hit with record price hikes by major providers active from July 1. 

Ryan Fitzgerald installs solar systems in and around Junee and is keen to be involved. 

“It would be amazing if they ended up doing a solar farm in Junee,” Mr Fitzgerald said. 

“Even if it didn’t make any money for my business it’d be a great thing to be a part of.” 

He said there’s a lot of interest from locals in renewal energy but also some enduring “myths”. 

“There are companies out there that lie and this causes confusion,” he said. 

“People get a big first power bill and go around saying solar is bad.

“It will be great to help people understand what solar is about and how it works and how to pick a provider.”