As weather events increase in severity and frequency across Queensland, widespread power and communications outages are increasing, leaving homes and communities isolated for days and sometimes weeks.
The RACQ and Community Power Agency initiative will fund up to $500,000 in renewable energy solutions, as well as satellite backup systems to power essential services and keep communication channels online during and after disasters.
RACQ Chief Executive Community MJ Bellotti said the new program is part of RACQ’s long-term commitment to helping Queensland communities.
“We’re proud to launch RACQ’s first energy resilience program to help reduce the impacts of natural disasters which frequently lead to power outages, disrupting essential services and leaving communities in the dark,” Bellotti said.
“Our goal is to help community clubs, charities and First Nations Councils by funding resilient energy solutions, like solar and batteries, enabling them to keep their doors open when locals need them most.”
Through funding support, mentoring and technical guidance, the program will strengthen energy resilience of community clubs and improve their capacity to respond in times of crisis.
Community Power Agency Director Elizabeth Noble said the program would provide communities with access to essential services.
“Power outages affect communications, refrigeration, water supply and basic comfort and Resilient Energy Centres are a practical way for communities to take control of their energy security,” Noble said.
“These hubs ensure there’s a reliable place for people to charge devices, store food, reconnect or even find relief during heatwaves.”
What are Resilient Energy Centres (RECs)?
RECs offer benefits to communities in both normal day-to-day operations and during preparation and recovery phases following natural disasters.
During normal operations, they can:
- Help cut facility operating costs
- Act as a base to come together and build community connections
- Be a meeting ground for disaster planning and information sharing
During recovery phases, they can:
- Provide back-up power when outages occur for a period of time
- Power telecommunications systems so emergency responders can connect and share information
- Offer power to those without, so they can charge electronic devices like phones
- Store cold food, provide hot water and necessities
- Offer a place to gather or coordinate when the immediate threat has passed
Community organisations wanting to boost their energy resilience are encouraged to apply and learn how they can transform into a Resilient Energy Centre.
Shortlisted applicants will receive technical advice and system design from RACQ Solar.
The first funding round opened on 27 March, with an introductory webinar for interested groups on 15 April, before applications close on 3 June.
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