Community groups and organisations around Merriwa are being encouraged to apply for funding through the Goulburn River Solar Farm Community Enhancement Fund.
Upper Hunter Shire Council says the fund is open to incorporated and registered not-for-profit organisations, local councils and Crown Reserve Trusts. It supports projects that benefit communities within approximately 30 kilometres of the Goulburn River Solar Farm, including the township of Merriwa.
Eligible projects may include environmental conservation and renewable energy initiatives, community, sporting and recreational facilities, health and wellbeing programs, childcare and preschool facilities, libraries, community halls and public infrastructure, mobile and internet improvements, community transport and accessibility projects, and tourism and local heritage initiatives.
The fund is linked to the $880 million Goulburn River Solar Farm, being developed by Lightsource bp roughly 28 kilometres south-west of Merriwa. The project, currently under construction, includes a large-scale solar array and battery storage system and is expected to generate enough renewable energy to power around 225,000 homes once operational.
Council is encouraging any organisation with an idea that would create a lasting benefit for the local community to get in touch here.
