The Regional Challenge
Energy Vulnerability
Regional residents face higher energy costs, spending 6.6% of income versus 4.8% in metropolitan areas. Recent price increases of 21.7% have further impacted household budgets, especially in low-income homes.
Economic Impact
Our region loses approximately $9.1M annually to external energy retailers. Through this initiative, we can retain these funds locally, generating significant economic benefits for our community.
Infrastructure Gap
With smart meter penetration at just 15-18%, our region requires urgent modernization. Our initial project targets 1,000 households to demonstrate effective community energy solutions.
Regional Coverage
Our comprehensive initiative spans three local government areas, reaching over 18,200 households across Armidale, Uralla, and Walcha regions.
Blueprint for Regional Energy Revolution
UNE SMART Region Incubator (SRI) based at NOVA presents a pioneering $445,000 regional energy transformation blueprint that aligns with New England's designation as a Renewable Energy Zone (REZ). Through strategic partnerships with Automised Energy's proven technology platform and Armidale Regional Council's established green initiatives, including their Origin Zero agreement, we're creating a model for regional transformation that can be replicated across NSW.
Strategic Solution
Combining SRI's proven track record in scaling regional innovations with the Council's existing Renewable Energy Community Benefit Framework and sustainable development policies.
Partnership Approach
Leveraging UNE's research capabilities, Automised Energy's technology, ZapCat's home energy expertise, and Council's community connections to create a comprehensive solution for regional energy transformation.
Project Investment
Total Project Cost: $465,000
REDCIP Funding: $372,000 (80%)
UNE SRI Co-contribution: $93,000 (20%)
Expected Outcome
Transform over 1,000 households initially, demonstrating how smart technology and community education can keep $400,000-$600,000 annually in local economies, while establishing a model that could ultimately retain up to $9.1 million annually across our broader region.
Detailed Budget Breakdown
| Budget Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Consumer Engagement Coordinator (0.5 FTE) | $65,000 |
| Community Education and Digital Engagement Program | $35,000 |
| Smart Energy Platform Access Program | $50,000 |
| Wholesale GridSmart Implementation | $30,000 |
| Smart Consumer Interface and Behavioral Analytics Platform | $85,000 |
| Regional Energy Management Micro-Credential Program | $45,000 |
| Research Component - Regional Energy Transformation Study | $27,500 |
| Regional Transformation Playbook and Evidence Base | $22,500 |
| Youth Innovation Challenge (EPIC) | $25,000 |
| Local Government Community Outreach Program | $30,000 |
| Community Energy Savings Incentive Scheme | $50,000 |
| Total Project Cost | $465,000 |
Core Components
Smart Technology
- • Real-time consumption monitoring
- • AI-powered predictive maintenance
- • Smart meter infrastructure
- • CDR integration
Education
- • UNE micro-credentials
- • Youth innovation challenge
- • Community workshops
- • Behavioral change programs
Economic Benefits
- • $500 household savings
- • Local job creation
- • Wealth retention
- • Technology sector growth
Research
- • Data analysis
- • Impact validation
- • Best practices
- • Scalability assessment
Implementation Timeline
Year 1: Pilot Project Building Local Success
- Transform 1,000+ New England households
- Retain $400,000-$600,000 annually in local economy
- Generate $1.05M total annual economic benefit through 2.1× multiplier effect
Years 2-3: Regional NSW Expansion
- Scale to neighbouring regions using proven delivery model
- Enhance platform capabilities based on local insights
- Build local expertise in energy technology sector
Research and Validation
Academic Research Partnership
Engage Honours and Masters students for longitudinal research over two years, creating valuable research outcomes while supporting project validation
Data Analysis and Oversight
Comprehensive data collection through Automised Energy's platform, with UNE providing research oversight and economic impact validation
Documentation and Scalability
Development of impact measurement frameworks, best practice documentation, and scalability assessments to support national adoption
Creating Lasting Regional Impact
Through strategic partnerships and innovative technology, we're building a sustainable model for regional energy transformation that will keep wealth within our communities and create lasting economic benefits for generations to come.