Ag Energy Australia

Farmers for Farmers

Australian Renewables Landscape

In Australia, the utility-scale renewable energy landscape is experiencing robust growth, driven by a combination of factors including declining costs, supportive policies, and increasing investor interest. Large-scale solar and wind farms are being developed across the country, contributing significantly to the diversification of the energy mix and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Solar energy, in particular, has witnessed remarkable expansion in utility-scale projects. Gigawatt-scale solar farms are being developed in various regions, taking advantage of Australia’s abundant sunlight. These projects often feature advanced technologies and economies of scale, making solar energy increasingly competitive with conventional forms of electricity generation. Similarly, wind energy continues to expand, with large-scale wind farms being developed in areas with strong and consistent wind resources. These projects, often comprising multiple turbines, contribute substantial capacity to the grid and play a crucial role in meeting renewable energy targets set by both federal and state governments.

The integration of utility-scale renewable energy projects with battery storage technology is also gaining traction. Battery storage facilities are being deployed alongside solar and wind farms to store excess energy and enhance grid stability, thereby addressing the intermittency of renewable energy sources and supporting reliable power supply.

Government policies, such as renewable energy targets, competitive auction schemes, and financial incentives have provided crucial support for utility-scale renewable energy development. These policies create a favourable investment environment and encourage the deployment of large-scale projects, further accelerating the transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy system.

Despite the significant progress, challenges remain, including grid integration issues, regulatory uncertainties, and occasional opposition from local communities. Overcoming these challenges will require active collaboration between governments, industry stakeholders, and communities to ensure the continued growth and success of Australia’s utility-scale renewable energy sector.

Our Story

As a farming family, we wanted our kids to carve their own path in agriculture. So, we decided to give them a leg up by handing over a starter herd of beef cattle. It’s been a delight seeing them take charge and grow their business, running operations from our properties in Gympie, QLD and Warialda, NSW. While they have the advantage of using our properties to keep costs down, they face the same challenges as any farmer – rising expenses for fuel, feed, chemicals, fencing, vehicles and insurance, not to mention the unpredictable nature of livestock markets and the weather.

That’s why we started exploring business diversification options. The idea of a steady income from renewable assets just made sense for the long-term sustainability of their business. The certainty of an annual lease provides financial security, we get upgrades to our internal roads and our son sees an opportunity to expand his earnings by contracting to establish firebreaks and provide weed control services for the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). It’s a nice little addition to his income, and he’s got all the equipment he needs ready to go.

We’ve taken the leap into our project teaming up with our internal renewable energy experts, who are both extremely knowledgeable about the renewable energy sector. After careful consideration, we decided that a Battery Energy Storage System (B.E.S.S.) is the best option for our place. The location we’ve chosen won’t interfere much with our cattle and farming operations, so it’s a win-win for us. It just makes good business sense to sustaining and growing the kids’ business.

Our internal renewable energy experts have been incredibly helpful, and their engagement of our kids in the process was really appreciated. Our experience working with them was overwhelmingly positive, so when they asked if we’d recommend them to other farmers we didn’t hesitate. Our first challenge was coming up with a name to promote renewable opportunities for farmers. After some brainstorming, we settled on ‘Ag Energy Australia – Farmers for Farmers’ and we’re excited to share our journey with others in the farming community.

Signed,
Jim and Jo

Renewable Energy Options

Wind

Solar

B.E.S.S.

Hybrid

Benefits for the Landowner

A stable and ongoing alternate revenue stream from previously underutilised areas of your property.

A sense of pride for being able to directly contribute to Australia’s Renewable Energy revolution and energy security.

New robust internal access tracks available for landowners use after construction has completed.

Opportunity for new dams, drainage infrastructure, firebreaks, fencing and gates that may be included in project construction.

Potential additional revenue streams through ongoing maintenance opportunities e.g. vegetation, firebreak and track maintenance.

Benefits for the Community

Increased exposure and visitors, particularly tourists, due to the media exposure generated from a new renewable energy development.

Increased patronage and spend with local businesses during the development and construction phase of the project.

Creation of new jobs at various skill levels during the construction and operation of the facility.

Increased prosperity of local community groups and sporting clubs through sponsorships and patronage of construction workers.

TALK TO US

Have any questions? We are always open to discussing your business, new projects, and how we can help you.