Solar panels at Coomaditchie Lagoon were an innovative way to tackle an algal bloom – how else could Wollongong use the technology? Photo: Wollongong City Council.
The Illawarra is the state’s first urban renewable energy zone – now what?
That’s the question Good For The Gong hopes to answer in Dapto on Sunday 26 October.
Expert speakers Francis Vierboom and Associate Professor Michelle Voyer will share the latest developments for the Illawarra Urban Renewable Energy Zone and the Offshore Wind Zone, before attendees are invited to ask questions and share their ideas.
Organiser Ali Gerritsen said the event was part of a push to develop a grassroots vision for what renewable energy across the Illawarra would look like in future.
“The discussion has very much centred around Thirroul and the northern suburbs so far, but renewable energy will benefit the whole region,” she said.
“Not everyone can install solar panels, but there are some really exciting things in the works to make cheaper energy accessible for everyone, like the new community batteries headed our way and technology that allows neighbours to share solar.
“For the first time renewable energy has overtaken fossil fuel energy in Australia and it’s a great time to get on board and help imagine the future for the Illawarra.”
Ali said it wasn’t just about cheaper power, but the potential for local jobs for the next generation.
Gretel Van-Lane from Dinners with a Difference will facilitate the discussion.
Gretel has years of experience bringing people together to have big conversations, and Ali said Good For The Gong was delighted she would be part of the Dapto event.
“Gretel is an incredible person who is able to hold space for every idea and opinion and go deeper on big topics,” she said.
“We’re really hoping to discuss power poverty and how the renewable transition can benefit people who are renting.”
Member for Wollongong Paul Scully recently told a webinar there were plans in the works to roll out solar panels on homes owned by Housing NSW.
He said thanks to the Illawarra’s unique geography and status as the first NSW Urban Renewable Energy Zone Wollongong would need to live up to its reputation as the city of innovation.
Ali said Good For The Gong hoped to get some new faces and new ideas down to Dapto and see what they could come up with.
It’s also an opportunity for anyone who would like to get more involved in the renewable space.
“It’s important everyone is part of this discussion,” Ali aid.
“If you’d like to volunteer we will form working groups afterwards, so it’s a great way to get engaged in a way that’s interesting to you.
“We’ve got a kids activity set up for them to share their ideas too, which should be really cute.
“I can’t wait to see what comes out of the event.”
Ali said families and children were welcome and secure bike parking would be provided on-site.
If you would like to attend the Good For The Gong Clean Energy Community Vision Workshop, head to the Ribbonwood Centre in Dapto on Sunday 26 October.
The event will run from 1:30 to 4 pm and is free. Attendees can RSVP here.
