Communities across AusNet’s electricity distribution network are invited to apply for the final round of grants from AusNet’s $12 million Energy Resilience Community Fund (ERCF), which is now open.
Established in response to the major storms of February 2024, the Fund is helping communities better prepare for prolonged power outages and emergencies.
Since launching the Fund AusNet has provided grants to almost 100 energy resilience and education projects including the creation of more than 60 community energy resilience hubs providing power, connection, critical services and community support during severe weather and other emergencies.
AusNet Energy Resilience Community Fund Manager Kim Sullivan said the grants are helping strengthen local resilience and keep communities safe and connected when it matters most.
“Reliable energy is critical to how our communities function, particularly during extreme weather and prolonged outages,” Ms Sullivan said.
“Through this Fund, AusNet is supporting practical, on the ground solutions, from back up power and solar and storage, to community facilities that will help people access vital services and stay connected during emergencies.”
The ERCF is open to community and not for profit organisations, local councils and essential small businesses across AusNet’s electricity distribution network area.
In this final round, AusNet is offering:
- Energy Resilience Grants of $5,000 - $50,000 for projects such as generators, solar and battery storage, back up power for critical businesses, electrical infrastructure upgrades, and generator powered mobile facilities including cool rooms, kitchens and showers.
- Energy Education and Literacy Grants of $5,000 - $25,000 for initiatives that improve energy knowledge and capability through learning resources, multimedia tools and community education campaigns.
Ms Sullivan said all Energy Resilience Grant projects must be capable of operating during outages.
“These projects must be ‘islandable’, meaning they can deliver power when the broader network is unavailable.”
Applications close at 5pm, Friday 12 June 2026. More information and application details are available at https://www.ausnetservices.com.au/ercf.