G8 energy share the benefits of our projects by supporting communities over the long term. We do this through a range of opportunities such as community benefits funds, voluntary planning agreements, community initiatives.
We recognize that each community is different, and we aim to tailor benefits at each project and make positive lasting contribution to each region.
G8 is committed to the development of the communities where we develop our projects, and through a partnership with Universities and other entities we support the following initiatives:
- Education and training initiatives – upskilling professionals to work in the renewables industry
- Community development programs – social-economic development and entrepreneurship
- Health, safety and wellbeing – training and awareness events
- Environmental initiatives – implementation of conservation programs with the communities
At G8 we are committed to follow the best practices for community engagement, for this we set as a minimum standard the 10 Clean Energy Council Best Practice Guidelines:
- We will engage respectfully with the local community, including Traditional Owners of the land, to seek their views and input before submitting a development application and finalising the design of the project.
- We will provide timely information and be accessible and responsive in addressing the local community’s feedback and concerns throughout the life of the project.
- We will be sensitive to areas of high biodiversity, cultural and landscape value in the design and operation of projects.
- We will minimise the impacts on highly productive agricultural land and explore opportunities to integrate agricultural production.
- We will consult the community on the potential visual, noise, traffic and other impacts of the project, and on the mitigation options.
- We will support the local economy by providing local employment and procurement opportunities.
- We will offer communities the opportunity to share in the benefits of the project, and consult them on the options available, including the relevant governance arrangements.
- We commit to using the project to support educational and tourism opportunities where appropriate.
- We will demonstrate responsible land stewardship over the life of the project and welcome opportunities to enhance the ecological, cultural and/or agricultural value of the land.
- During the life of the project, we will recycle waste materials where feasible and commit to responsible decommissioning or refurbishment/repowering of the site at the end of the project’s life.
What do you need to get started on your solar farm lease?
- We assess your land for a solar farm at no cost to you. We look for proximity to three-phase power lines and substations among other factors.
- Provide the results of a land assessment to you. If it makes sense for us to invest in your land, then we offer you an Agreement to lease for a solar farm. If we cannot develop your land now, it may make sense later. We will keep you in our database and contact you if it changes.
- Once you signed the Agreement to lease, we will start getting the necessary approval from the local council and network provider, for the development application and the grid connection. This process has cero cost for you.
- After getting all approvals we execute the formal lease agreement, and we take it from there. We will be available for you in the complete process for any question you may have or assistance that you need.
