The Albanese Government has announced the second round of its $100 million Community Energy Upgrades Fund, confirming $50 million in grants for 66 local governments nationwide to support energy efficiency, electrification and renewable energy upgrades across community facilities.
The funding aims to help councils reduce operating costs and reinvest savings into essential community services such as sporting fields, libraries, community halls and local pools. The measures include installing batteries to store excess solar generation, expanding EV charging infrastructure and transitioning community pools from gas to electric systems.
Queensland Receives $4.3 Million for Community Energy Projects
Twelve Queensland councils will share $4.3 million for upgrades to community facilities stretching from Toowoomba to Pormpuraaw. The projects include solar PV installations, battery systems, efficiency upgrades and electrification of existing infrastructure.
Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith will visit Pormpuraaw Aboriginal Shire Council to confirm a $256,735 grant for installing solar panels on council-owned residential properties. The system is expected to lower energy costs, feed excess electricity back to the grid and reduce environmental pressure on Traditional land.
At the Milne Bay Aquatic and Fitness Centre in Toowoomba, the council will replace gas-fired heating with high-efficiency electric heat pumps, complemented by rooftop solar and a redesigned energy system. The upgrades will significantly cut emissions and operational costs, supporting the facility’s path to full decarbonisation.
In Yarrabah, the Aboriginal Shire Council will replace non-operational solar PV systems on key municipal buildings with modern, high-efficiency installations. The works form part of the community’s Yarrabah Microgrid initiative to enhance energy resilience and support clean energy employment in the remote region.
According to the government, nearly all funded projects will install solar panels, with more than half incorporating battery storage systems.
Government Leaders Highlight Benefits
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the program ensures community facilities can reinvest in services while advancing Australia’s clean energy transition.
“These upgrades will deliver a cheaper, cleaner energy future for Australia. What’s good for the planet is good for the pocket.”
Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson said replacing gas boilers with electric alternatives at public facilities would cut energy use, emissions and operational costs.
Special Envoy for Climate Adaptation and Resilience Kate Thwaites noted the importance of supporting councils that face direct impacts from climate-related events.
“By investing in clean energy, we’re helping local governments build resilience and keep their communities strong.”
Matt Smith MP added that the investment would help reduce reliance on diesel generators in remote communities and support renewable energy uptake across Cape York and the Torres Strait.
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