A new initiative, set to launch this month, will equip Armidale and surrounding regional communities with the knowledge, tools and leadership needed to drive climate solutions and navigate the transition to renewable energy. The Armidale Community-Driven Shift to Renewable Energy and Sustainability is a Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR)-funded program designed to help households and businesses embrace cleaner, more efficient energy solutions tailored to regional and rural areas.

The initiative is a collaboration between Electrify Armidale, UNE SMART Region Incubator, Sustainable Living Armidale, and Community Power Agency, and has secured $20,000 in funding through FRRR’s Community-Led Climate Solutions grant. This funding will enable local and external experts to provide practical solutions and guidance to help the community transition to renewable energy.

Throughout the year, a series of free public events will offer hands-on learning experiences empowering residents and businesses to cut energy costs, improve home efficiency, and actively engage in the clean energy transition. Covering everything from home energy upgrades and electric vehicles to battery storage and large-scale renewable projects, the program will connect the community with expert advice, financial incentives, and trusted suppliers.

Upcoming Events Include

🟢 Electrify Armidale Community Program: Home Energy Upgrades for Comfort and Every Budget – A launch event showcasing affordable, low-effort energy efficiency upgrades and electrification solutions for homes.

🟢 EV and E-Bike Expos – Hands-on experiences with electric vehicles and

e-bikes, offering test rides, expert insights, and advice on charging, security, and maintenance.

🟢 Local Business Leading the Renewable Energy Transition – Highlighting how businesses can cut energy costs and drive sustainability through electrification, solar, and energy storage.

🟢 Home and Community Battery Solutions – Informing households and businesses on how batteries can reduce bills, increase energy independence, and support the grid.

🟢 Engagement with Large-Scale Renewable Energy Projects and Transmission Lines – Helping the community understand and navigate major energy infrastructure developments in the region, including insights into community benefit opportunities.

🟢 First Nations-focused sessions – collaborating with local networks to ensure inclusive access to renewable energy opportunities, financial incentives, and culturally relevant information.

🟢Multicultural outreach sessions – Ensuring that home energy information is available in accessible formats to help local multicultural communities keep warm in winter and save energy and money.

“This program is about making the clean energy transition practical, accessible, and beneficial for everyone in Armidale,” said Trevor Brown, convenor of Electrify Armidale. “With rising energy costs, now is the time to help households, businesses, and communities take control of their energy future.”

The first event kicks off on Thursday, 27 March 2025, with the Electrify Armidale Community Program: Home Energy Upgrades for Comfort and Every Budget at NOVA in Armidale.

For event details and registration visit: Home Energy Upgrades for Comfort and Every Budget

Trevor Brown
Convenor, Electrify Armidale M: 0447 284 147
tbrown3@une.edu.au

About the FRRR Grant:
The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) supports grassroots initiatives that help regional communities adapt, strengthen, and thrive in a changing environment. The Armidale Community-Driven Shift to Renewable Energy and Sustainability is funded as part of FRRR’s commitment to community-led climate solutions.