We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we live, work, and play. Sovereignty was never ceded and this always was, always will be Aboriginal Land. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future and their continuing connection to country.

Shoalhaven Greens

Shoalhaven Greens – NSW Greens Branch

Renewable Energy Matters – our Shoalhaven Greens Energy Policy


This plan outlines our commitment to a sustainable future for the Shoalhaven through renewable energy. You can read more about our progress in Mayoral Candidate Kaye Gartner on Energy.

By embracing electrification, we will achieve multiple goals:

  • Reduced Costs: Lower energy bills for the council and residents means more money stays in your pocket.
  • Cleaner Environment: Reduced greenhouse gas emissions benefit us all by combating climate change.
  • Local Prosperity: Keeping energy dollars circulating within the Shoalhaven strengthens our local economy.
  • Job Creation: Investing in renewables fosters exciting new job opportunities.

Leading by Example

Shoalhaven City Council is already acting on its comprehensive Sustainability and Climate Action Plan, with a goal of net zero emissions by 2035. Progress has been made with solar panels on council buildings and energy-efficient LED streetlights.

Each year, the council spends around $3 million on electrical energy (not including network and other fixed costs) and around $3.5 million on fuel. Significant potential remains to further reduce our energy bills and environmental footprint.

Actions include:

  • Expanding solar panel and battery installations
  • Electrifying the council’s vehicle and machinery fleet
  • Implementing additional efficiency measures

To accelerate progress, we’ll be prioritising the replacement of our Sustainability Lead to ensure proper resourcing and timely achievement of our cost and emission reduction targets.

Empowering Our Community

Electrification extends beyond the council. Electrifying households and businesses offers substantial benefits:

  • Cost Savings: Rewiring Australia estimates yearly savings of over $4,000 per household, resulting in over $200 million benefit to the Shoalhaven economy (https://www.rewiringaustralia.org/community/gilmore).
  • Job Growth: This shift will create over a thousand new local jobs.
  • Environmental Impact: Reduced reliance on fossil fuels leads to cleaner air and
    a healthier planet.

Working Together for a Sustainable Future

The Shoalhaven City Council is collaborating with Kiama, Shellharbour, and Wollongong councils through the Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation (ISJO) to develop a Net Zero Acceleration Program. This initiative includes a Community Renewables Program, providing assistance and resources to make renewable energy systems more accessible for homes and businesses, including pricing and finance options to reduce the up-front cost barriers.

By working together, we can build a more sustainable and prosperous Shoalhaven for generations to come.