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Council to launch Community Renewables Program

Council to launch Community Renewables Program
13 June 2025

City of Mount Gambier is taking a step toward a more sustainable future in partnership with solar technology provider ShineHub. The Community Renewables Program will launch in July to help residents cut energy bills and reduce carbon emissions.

This locally focused initiative is designed to make solar energy more accessible to Mount Gambier households by offering affordable, interest-free solar and battery solutions with no upfront costs.

The Community Renewables Program will enable local residents to access good quality solar systems and batteries at a reduced price. This will assist those involved to save money on energy bills, while reducing the impact on the environment.

City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin welcomed the initiative which was approved at the April 2025 Council meeting for a period of three years.

"The ShineHub Community Renewables Program empowers our community to take control of energy costs while contributing to a cleaner, greener Mount Gambier. It’s a practical step toward achieving our sustainability goals," Mayor Martin said.

This initiative will help households to manage the costs of energy which we know is a big pressure on family budgets. - Mayor Lynette Martin

The program includes support for renters and those who may not have been eligible for traditional solar financing, to ensure that all residents can participate in the energy transition.

City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin and ShineHub Community Partnerships Manager Brogan Roods.
Mayor Martin and Brogan Roods
City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin and ShineHub Community Partnerships Manager Brogan Roods.

The program offers:

  • Access to virtual power plant (VPP) benefits, enabling households to earn credits for sharing excess solar energy.
  • Support for renters and low-income households through flexible participation options.
  • Local job creation through the use of certified South Australian installers.

ShineHub Community Partnerships Manager Brogan Roods said the program demonstrates how local governments can lead the way towards renewable energy transition.

"Our goal is to give everyday Australians the tools to benefit from clean energy. Partnering with the City of Mount Gambier means we can reach more people who might otherwise miss out," Mr Roods said.

A community information session will be held on Wednesday 30 July 2025 at 6:00pm at City Hall opposite the Cave Garden/Thugi to help residents learn more about the program, with installations expected to begin by late winter.

“Other Councils in South Australia have had great success with this program and I encourage our community to attend the information session to understand how solar technology may help them,” Mayor Martin said.

To find out more or register for the information session, visit www.shinehub.com.au/mount-gambier

Media contact: City of Mount Gambier Media and Communications Coordinator Sharny McLean on 0413 798 327 or smclean@mountgambier.sa.gov.au