Avenel Secures $157,000 for Solar-Powered Emergency Refuges.

Renewable Avenel Energy (RAE) is pleased to announce a $157,000 grant to help strengthen emergency preparedness in Avenel, with solar and battery installations planned for two important community facilities.

The funding, awarded through AusNet's Energy Resilience Community Fund, will support upgrades at Avenel Memorial Hall and Avenel Recreation Reserve, helping provide safe, accessible places for residents during heatwaves, bushfires, power outages and other extreme weather events.

Building a More Resilient Community

As extreme weather becomes more challenging, access to reliable power and safe community spaces is increasingly important.

The planned upgrades will see both facilities fitted with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and 20kWh battery storage systems. These installations will help maintain essential power supplies during electricity outages and periods of high demand.

The systems will support practical needs during emergencies, including cooking, hot water, phone charging, medical devices, and cooling or heating. This is particularly important for vulnerable residents who may struggle to remain safe and comfortable in their homes during prolonged periods of extreme heat.

By investing in local energy infrastructure, RAE is helping ensure our community is better prepared when it matters most.

Supporting Avenel Through Extreme Weather

Avenel Memorial Hall and Avenel Recreation Reserve are important community facilities. Strengthening their energy resilience will help them provide practical support when residents need it most.

The solar and battery installations are expected to reduce emissions and ongoing energy costs while helping keep the facilities operational during periods of disruption. RAE Chairman Jim Billings highlighted the importance of preparing for the challenges ahead.

"Climate change is here to stay, and it will make future human existence more difficult," Mr Billings said.

The project represents a significant investment in Avenel's local emergency infrastructure, helping equip two familiar community spaces to provide support during extreme weather and power disruptions.

Photo credit: The Community Voice Newspaper

Looking Ahead

Installation work at both sites is expected to begin at the end of October, with completion targeted ahead of summer.

RAE has also been seeking additional funding from the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) to install a backup generator at the Avenel Recreation Reserve. A generator is already available at Avenel Memorial Hall, provided by Strathbogie Shire Council, offering an additional source of power during prolonged outages.

RAE is grateful to AusNet for supporting this community-led initiative and to the Strathbogie Shire for backing the grant application.

This funding is an important step towards a more sustainable, prepared and resilient Avenel.

Through practical local projects, Renewable Avenel Energy continues to work towards a future where our community has access to cleaner energy, lower energy costs and safer shared spaces.

Together, we can help Avenel prepare for the challenges ahead.