Solar power could be a way to ensure energy security during bushfires and help towns stay sustainable during the coronavirus recovery, according to a new plan to be put to the federal government.
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More than 100 renewable energy groups across Australia, including 13 from the North East, are pushing the government to do more to support community energy projects.
Indi MP Helen Haines and energy advocates from the electorate have co-authored a paper released on Friday, which looks at ways regional areas can benefit from what they believe will be a "boom" in the industry.
"The next fifty years could be the brightest ever for regional Australia, if we have the smarts and the grit to work hard for it," the paper states.
Totally Renewable Yackandandah has been working for years to introduce solar energy and batteries in the town, which expanded to community groups in 12 other cities and towns, and led to community energy retailer Indigo Power launching a business and signing up customers across the North East.
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"It's about building more renewables in regional Australia and making sure everyday people benefit," Dr Haines said.
"Towns like Corryong and Walwa lost power for several days in January's Black Summer bushfire emergency.
"If these communities had their own solar panels and local batteries, that wouldn't have happened - and it should never happen again.
"Yackandandah Health is saving $1 million in energy costs over 25 years through its solar installation, developed by the local community.
"If we could generate such savings for every regional hospital in the country then hundreds of millions would be freed up for investment in our health."
The CSIRO has estimated $1 trillion will be spent in Australia's energy sector by 2050.
Dr Haines said this could mean lower bills, stronger energy security, and new job and industries in a "a regional jobs boom".
"The coronavirus pandemic has also shown why it's more important than ever to embrace this opportunity," she said.
"Community energy can make our small towns self-sufficient.
"It can lower the cost of living, and bring benefits to see rural and regional Australia out the other side of this crisis in good shape."
Submissions can be made on the plan and public virtual workshops will be held across Indi over the next eight weeks to get feedback, starting on May 22 and June 3.
