Green power surge: Geelong’s business energy revolution

THE City of Greater Geelong, in partnership with more than 50 Victorian councils, has created the Business Renewables Buyers Group, a move that consolidates electricity demand and grants local businesses access to affordable renewable energy.

This initiative opens the door for Geelong’s business owners to shift towards 100% renewable energy, a change that promises both environmental and financial benefits.

Mayor Trent Sullivan highlighted the initiative’s multiple advantages.

“Participating businesses will reduce their environmental impact, save money, secure long-term and stable pricing and reduce exposure to energy market volatility,” he said.

“By forming a collective, there are more options and potential price benefits on offer due to increased load, support from a facilitator and the wider group, and reduced project costs.

“The model can grow and be replicated, paving the way for more businesses to fulfil their sustainability goals.

“I encourage local medium to large power consumers to consider joining this innovative group and exercise people power at its best!”

The scheme not only aims to cut emissions but also to reduce operational costs.

With the help of an external facilitator, the group plans to negotiate a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).

This agreement aims to streamline the procurement of electricity from off-site renewable sources like solar or wind farms, simplifying the transition process.

Targeting businesses with an annual electricity consumption exceeding 500mWh (about $100,000 in expenditure), the program encourages a significant leap towards sustainable practices.

Deputy Mayor Anthony Aitken commented on the City’s success in reducing emissions. “Our Council has eliminated 100 percent of carbon emissions associated with the City’s operational electricity usage since joining Victorian Energy Collaboration in 2021 and switching to renewable energy,” he said.

“The 9.5-year contract will contribute to our target of all City-managed operations becoming carbon neutral by 2025.” Cr Aitken said the energy collective will assist the region in reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2035.

Victorian businesses looking to transition to renewable energy can join a free webinar from 11am to 12pm on Thursday, 22 February.