European Energy And Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation Sign MoU To Guide Renewable Energy Development Across Yorta Yorta Country

European Energy and the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to guide cooperation on renewable energy development across Yorta Yorta Country in northern Victoria. The agreement sets out how the two parties will work together as new projects move forward in the region. The MoU was signed during the Danish State Visit to Australia and was witnessed by HM King Frederik X of Denmark, HM Queen Mary of Denmark, and Australian Minister for Energy Chris Bowen. The signing reflects the growing collaboration between European and Australian partners on renewable energy and shared climate objectives.

The agreement formalises cooperation on renewable energy projects that European Energy is developing on land traditionally owned and cared for by the Yorta Yorta people. A core focus of the partnership is ensuring cultural and environmental protection as developments progress. This includes implementing Cultural Heritage Management Plans, providing employment pathways, enabling procurement opportunities, and ensuring benefit sharing in line with the self-determined priorities of the Yorta Yorta community. The MoU also affirms the importance of free, prior and informed consent and the protection of Yorta Yorta cultural and intellectual property.

European Energy currently has multiple renewable energy projects underway on Yorta Yorta land. These include the recently opened Lancaster Solar Park near Kyabram, which forms part of the company’s expanding renewable energy portfolio in Australia. The new agreement establishes a long-term structure for cooperation as additional solar and wind projects are developed and operated in the region.

Catriona McLeod, VP and Country Manager for Australia at European Energy, said that renewable energy development must involve close collaboration with Traditional Owners and local communities. She explained that the agreement creates a foundation for respectful engagement, cultural heritage protection, benefit sharing, and ongoing partnership as projects progress.

Trent Nelson, Chairperson of the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation, said the MoU recognises the Yorta Yorta people as Traditional Owners and outlines how both parties will work together to protect culture, care for Country, and ensure the community benefits from renewable energy development. European Energy has significantly expanded its presence in Australia in recent years, bringing its first solar projects into operation and developing a large pipeline of renewable energy assets across multiple states.

The company continues to advance utility-scale solar and wind projects supported by long-term power purchase agreements and project financing. Through the MoU, European Energy Australia and the Yorta Yorta Nation will jointly support workforce participation, opportunities for Indigenous businesses, and initiatives aligned with the community’s priorities. The cooperation will be supported by regular reporting, clear governance processes, and ongoing engagement between both parties as renewable energy development continues across Yorta Yorta Country.