On the same day $11.3 million was allocated for specific local infrastructure projects, a $60 million funding pool to be shared across the Murrumbidgee Council, Edward River and Hay Shire communities was revealed.
Murrumbidgee’s share of the NSW Government and EnergyCo Community and Employment Benefit Program allocation is yet to be determined.
The funding is intended to “support long-term regional prosperity alongside renewable energy development” in the South West Renewable Energy Zone.
And contributions will continue in years to come from access fees paid by renewable energy projects with a connection agreement - BayWa r.e., Origin Energy, Someva and AGL, and Spark Renewables.
The huge funding pool was announced by Minister for Climate Change, Energy and Environment Penny Sharpe.
Ms Sharpe said the investments help to ensure host communities are well-placed to benefit from the jobs and economic opportunities generated by renewable energy development.
“This $60 million in funding is just the beginning,” she said.
“It will be amplified by renewable energy projects in the REZ and deliver initiatives that will continue to support the region long after construction has finished.”
Council will investigate the best use for whatever share of the $60 million it is allocated.
The important element of this funding is that it can be used to support any community impacted by REZ projects, and not limited by the REZ boundary as initially speculated.
The new funding will add to $5 million already promised to council through the Origin Energy Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) linked to the Yanco Delta wind development.
It will specifically be used to support the delivery of a modern medical facility at Jerilderie that will strengthen access to health services for residents across the district.
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