Twenty-eight councils and community groups across Victoria will receive close to $1 million from the second round of AusNet’s Energy Resilience Community Fund.
The Yarra Ranges were one of the 28 councils, receiving funds to improve and provide Energy Resilience, Education and Literacy Grants.
“This will support projects that will help build long-term community energy resilience and support the communities during severe weather events,” executive general manager distribution, Andrew Linnie said.
“We know how important energy is to our communities’ and customers’ lives. When severe weather or other emergencies happen, this becomes even more important.”
Following the Fund, four places in the Yarra Ranges have received support from AusNet.
Kallista Medical Centre received $14,200 to install an 8KVa gas-powered generator, as uninterrupted power will keep temperature stable for vaccines and allow the continuation of essential medical services, providing health care to over 2,400 people in the region.
The buffalo stand-alone Power solutions and Monbulk and District Community Opportunities Workgroup received $49,400 to purchase a power trailer to service the community in both emergency power supply and for community events.
Selby Community House received $20,000 to install a 7.92kW solar system with 13.5kWh battery storage, enabling them to operate as an emergency hub during outages and extreme weather events.
Villages of Mount Dandenong received $50,000 to install solar panels and backup battery systems, providing uninterrupted power to two small businesses in Olinda during outages and emergencies.
“We are actively investing in our network to improve reliability and resilience. Through these grants, we’re pleased to contribute further to help build community energy resilience and assist people to stay connected and safe during prolonged outages and emergencies,” Mr Linnie said.
AusNet established the $12 million Energy Resilience Community Fund following the storms in February last year, to support projects across AusNet’s electricity distribution network in eastern and north-eastern Victoria, and Melbourne’s north and east.
Grants for the next round open on Monday 26 May 2025. For further information go to ausnet.com.au/ercf.
