A new report has estimated that large-scale renewable energy projects will deliver $1 billion to farmers and $200 million to regional communities by 2030.
The Billions in the bush: Renewable energy for regional prosperity report, published by the Clean Energy Council and Farmers for Climate Action, shows that farmers are earning a significant income stream from hosting renewable energy projects alongside existing farming activities.
The Clean Energy Council said renewables are not only keeping the lights on as coal plants reach the end of their technical life, but they’re also creating jobs and alternative income streams and benefits right across Australian communities.
The report shows that farmers can earn $38,500 to $45,500 per year from hosting a typical 7MW turbine and up to $1250 per hectare from solar when in comparison, a beef farmer can expect returns of $1500 per hectare per year in a good year.
The analysis found that contributions in the National Electricity Market are expected to deliver $213 million by 2030 and $1.9 billion to 2050, supporting regional communities to thrive.
The report also highlighted opportunities across regional Australia that could reach $9.7–$11.7 billion by 2050.
Based on total renewable capacity, farmers and landholders in New South Wales are expected to receive $290–$371 million by 2030, while those in Queensland are expected to receive $220–$274 million.
Those in Victoria are expected to receive $238–$288 million, those in South Australia are expected to receive $109–$132 million and those in Tasmania are expected to receive $41– $48 million.
