As Australia’s leading renewable energy provider, Squadron Energy sees what works in supporting regional communities to engage with the development of renewable projects. Constructive conversations are key – local voices, local context and trusted information matter most.
This is why we welcome the Senate Select Committee’s recommendations in The Integrity Gap: Restoring Trust in the Climate and Energy Debate report including:
- continuing support for regional and independent media
- adequately resourcing the Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner for effective community engagement
- resourcing community‑led engagement models with proven track records.
At Squadron Energy, we prioritise community engagement to understand community needs and deliver locally designed investment and legacy projects. For example, in Central West NSW we have worked closely with the community to give a new life to a disused retirement village by refurbishing it for worker accommodation, as well as partnered with council to build an advanced wastewater treatment plant.
Consistent with the Senate Select Committee’s recommendations, we do this because establishing trust and strengthening relationships early helps address concerns before misinformation fills the gaps.