Australia Funds $50 Million in Community Energy Projects to Support Electrification and Clean Energy Transition

The Albanese Government has announced $50 million in funding for 66 local councils under the second round of the Community Energy Upgrades Fund (CEUF), supporting projects aimed at cutting energy costs and reducing emissions across community facilities nationwide.

The CEUF, a $100 million initiative, is designed to help councils transition to cleaner energy solutions through electrification, energy efficiency upgrades, solar generation and storage systems. Eligible community spaces include local pools, libraries, town halls, and sports precincts.

In South Australia, six councils will receive a combined $5.47 million to deploy solar PV systems, battery storage, heat pumps, and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

Among the major South Australian recipients is the City of Campbelltown, awarded $2.5 million to upgrade the ARC Campbelltown Aquatic Centre. The project will introduce a high-efficiency heat pump integrated with existing gas boilers, supported by a solar-shaded car park. The council plans to use the pool as a thermal battery to maximise renewable energy use and phase out gas heating in future upgrades.

Meanwhile, the District Council of Franklin Harbour will install solar and battery systems at the Cowell Wastewater Treatment Plant with its $189,127 grant, reducing operational costs and emissions. Naracoorte Lucindale Council will deploy rooftop solar systems across four municipal sites—including the regional livestock exchange, library, town hall and council offices—supported by a $110,869 allocation.

Nationwide, CEUF Round 2 will support 33 aquatic centre upgrades and 10 EV charging infrastructure projects. Solar installations feature in nearly all approved projects, with more than half also incorporating battery storage.

Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the program ensures essential facilities remain both affordable and sustainable.

“These upgrades will deliver a cheaper, cleaner energy future for Australia as we strive for net-zero by 2050,” Mr Bowen said.

Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson said the program reflects growing momentum for local-level decarbonisation.

“This program will see benefits for public facilities like local swimming pools where gas boilers will be replaced with electric alternatives to reduce energy use, cut emissions, and help local governments reduce running costs,” he said.

Special Envoy for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Kate Thwaites emphasised the role local governments play in building community resilience.

“Whether it’s a pool, a library or a sports ground, these projects show how practical climate action can save money today and protect communities for the future,” Ms Thwaites said.

Federal Member for Sturt Claire Clutterham said the program recognises community support for renewable energy initiatives in her region.

“By backing Campbelltown’s plan to electrify pool heating and add battery storage, we’re building a cleaner, stronger future for families in Sturt,” she said.

Under CEUF guidelines, grants range from $25,000 to $2.5 million, with local governments required to match the funding. The Albanese Government says the initiative will help accelerate Australia’s progress toward national emissions reduction goals while supporting community infrastructure modernisation.