Healesville Community Renewable Energy aims to increase awareness of how local communities working together can impact climate change, increase community resilience and contribute to the reduction of the community’s carbon footprint. We have developed community projects, programs and educational seminars to work with businesses, community groups and householders.
Community Energy Revolving Fund
Some community groups would love to install solar and reduce their power bills, but lack the funds to pay for it. So how does a Community Energy Revolving Fund help? Simply put, it offers interest-free loans to community groups in the Yarra Ranges, enabling them to install solar panels and batteries without any up front costs. The group pays the loan back using the savings from their reduced power bills, and the funds are then used for another installation with another group. This is why we call it a Revolving Fund. Read on to find out more.
Read more…Engaging with Local Business
Our Solar 4 Business project engages with the businesses in our main street, in an effort to identify the benefits and barriers relating to the installation of Solar Panels and Batteries. Whether they own or lease, have solar or not, we are keen to assist them to reduce costs through solar initiatives.
Read more…Badger Creek Hall Energy Efficiency Retrofit
Early in 2023, Healesville CoRE received a grant from Sustainability Victoria and allocated part of it to carry out energy efficiency upgrades at two sites in Healesville. One of the sites chosen was Badger Creek Community Hall, and the other was a low rent accommodation shared house for three tenants, managed by a not-for-profit organisation. Both groups are now enjoying lower power bills and more comfort, but as we wish to respect the tenant’s privacy we have only reported here on the hall upgrades.
Read more…Our Events
Healesville CoRE organises several free community events and activities a year, as we continue to assist our community transition to renewable energy. Past topics include:
Home Batteries – is now the time to invest? With Solar Quip expert Glen Morris
Electrify Everything! With My Efficient Electric Home founder Tim Forcey
Renewable Energy Trailer visiting local schools and markets
Expert EcoChat – a chance for personal sustainable advice with an expert of your choice
Read on to discover more about these events – those we recorded are available to view at your leisure.