Benalla Community Energy Forum on August 3 will outline how the town and surrounds can tap into the new wave of investment.

This forum will support the work of Renewable Energy Benalla, which aims for Benalla to become a 100 per cent renewable energy community within 10 years.

Renewable Energy Benalla convenor John Lloyd said Benalla was a leader in the uptake of renewable energy.

“Polling by Sustainability Victoria shows that our region has the highest interest in renewable energy in the state with 75 per cent of people interested in taking part in renewable energy projects,” he said.

“Speakers at the forum will outline how communities can make the most of this investment in renewable energy across the region and ensure that we all benefit from them.

“Community energy is a model that gives local towns and regions power over how they generate and consume electricity.

“People attending will also hear about the setting up of a local community energy retailer that will source locally produced energy, create local jobs and invest profits straight back into the region.”

Community Energy Roadshow forums will be also held in Wodonga, Wangaratta, Bright, Beechworth and Tallangatta from July 31.

A local community energy retailer is being developed to allow towns and regions to achieve their renewable energy goals.

The forum is being organised in conjunction with the state government and the community energy retailer project.

Three speakers will outline the benefits of community energy at the Benalla forum.

Victorian Renewable Energy Advocate Simon Corbell will talk about renewable energy opportunities for communities.

He will detail different renewable energy technologies, the economics that are driving the transition and advancements such as micro-grids.

Community Power Agency co-founder Nicky Ison will explain community energy, outlining how communities can benefit from the transition to clean energy and what is happening around the country and world.

Moreland Energy Foundation chief executive Alison Rowe will speak about what is happening with community renewable energy in Victoria.

She will also discuss the energy justice component of the transition.

The forum will be held on Friday, August 3, at Benalla Performing Arts and Convention Centre from 7.30pm.

People are urged to register for the free event at communityenergyretailer.com