The Victorian-based Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (DJAARA) has celebrated the recent launch of its new solar-battery project and Nyuawi Mutjeka renewable energy strategy.
DJAARA has installed a 32.4-kilowatt solar system and 14 kilowatt-hour battery on the Dja Dja Wurrung Corporate and Community Centre, supported by a $1.1 million contribution from Victoria’s Traditional Owner Renewable Energy Program (TOREP).
Victoria’s Minister for Energy, Lily D’Ambrosio, congratulated DJAARA on launching the project.
“Congratulations to DJAARA for Nyuawi Mutjeka – an historic renewable energy strategy and solar-battery project, set to slash energy bills and emissions while advancing self-determination and economic independence,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“We are proud to have helped fund DJAARA’s inaugural solar-battery project and are grateful for their engagement with Victoria’s Traditional Owner Renewable Energy Program.”
This renewable energy system reduces the DJAARA’s energy costs and reliance on the grid, as it provides clean energy and slashes carbon emissions.
Nyuawi Mutjeka, meaning ‘to keep the sun’, pledges to reverse historical harms and pursue opportunities for renewable energy production and consumption that protects and supports Djaara (people) and Djandak (Country).
TOREP supports Aboriginal participation and adoption of new energy technologies, boosts skills and fosters a green economic recovery with grants of up to $100,000 available for Traditional Owner Corporations.
It is the first tailored renewable energy grant program for registered Aboriginal parties, with DJAARA’s project the second completed.
The Labor Government’s $1.1 million TOREP funds Victoria’s registered Aboriginal parties to self-determine how they want to be part of Victoria’s renewable energy transition.
Feature Image: Djaara representatives celebrating the launch of their Dja Dja Wurrung Renewable Energy Strategy and solar battery project. Photo: DJAARA.
