$2 million energy literacy fund to support vulnerable residents
The NSW Government is switching on nearly $2 million in funding to help vulnerable households take control of their energy usage, save money and be part of the state’s clean energy future.
Grassroots organisations can apply for $50,000 to $500,000 of grant funding from the Inclusive Energy Outreach Program to deliver tailored energy education that helps households make informed energy choices and ease pressure on the hip pocket.
This investment will help organisations connect with diverse audiences including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, low-income households, seniors, and those living in rural and regional areas.
These cohorts can benefit most from targeted support during the transition to cleaner, renewable energy systems. With the right policies and programs, they can be supported to manage short-term price changes, access technologies such as solar panels, and take advantage of electrification to reduce costs and improve long-term resilience.
It builds on the $360,000 distributed to the Community Housing Industry Association and the Sydney Community Forum to help them expand and strengthen the delivery of existing energy outreach initiatives.
The Inclusive Energy Outreach Program is an action from the NSW Consumer Energy Strategy, to ensure everyone can benefit from and participate in the energy transition.
The focus is on keeping bills as low as possible, maintaining a stable and reliable energy system and helping achieve net zero emissions.
Applications are open until 3 November 2025. Organisations wishing to know more about the Inclusive Energy Outreach Program including support on submitting their application can visit this website: www.energy.nsw.gov.au/inclusive-energy
Quote attributable to Emily Yip, Director Community and Home Programs, NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water:
“This is about empowering vulnerable households to make confident, informed energy choices.
“We want everyone to share in the benefits of renewable energy, by ensuring households can access the tools and support they need along the way.
“That’s why we are providing as much help and information as we can about how to lower home energy costs and access NSW Government grants and programs to assist.
“We are partnering with engaged and trusted grassroots organisations, we can extend our reach and strengthen support, so vulnerable communities can enjoy the benefits of reduced costs and play an active role in the state’s net zero journey.”
