The Business Case for Community Solar Projects: Unlocking Local Opportunities
Join us for a panel event featuring industry leaders David Heine, Emma Stilts, and Gerald Arends as we explore the business of designing, building, and funding community-led renewable energy projects.
Emma and Gerald, directors of the Manilla Solar Project, will share their expertise and experience from this project, while David Heine will draw from his extensive experience in finance and technology, adding a strategic perspective to the discussion.
This interactive lunchtime session will showcase the potential of community-led energy initiatives to drive sustainable economic growth across the New England and North West region.
With the global shift towards renewable energy, this is a fantastic opportunity to discover how your business can benefit from one of the most innovative projects in regional Australia.
This engaging discussion will explore the opportunities and challenges in the renewable energy sector, followed by a networking lunch.
The event starts at 12 pm, with the panel discussion running until 1 pm, and lunch served from 1pm to 2 pm
Why Should Your Business Attend?
Discover Local Business Opportunities
Manilla Solar is seeking local consultants, contractors, and suppliers to help bring this ambitious project to life. With a development budget of $15 million and a focus on community involvement, your business could benefit from this important development.
Secure Affordable, Sustainable Energy
Learn how power purchase agreements (PPAs) with Manilla Solar can provide your business with long-term, cost-effective access to clean energy, improving your bottom line and reducing operational risks tied to fluctuating energy costs.
Enhance Your ESG Profile
This initiative provides a unique opportunity for local businesses to demonstrate their dedication to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. By engaging with community solar, your business can establish itself as a frontrunner in promoting sustainability and corporate citizenship within the local community."
Be Part of Our Region's future:
This event provides an excellent opportunity to learn about a blueprint for regional development, resilience, and future-proofing the region. It showcases an ownership model that can be replicated across the New England North West region.
Meet Our Panelists
David Heine – CEO Of Regional Australia Bank, Finance & Technology Leader
David Heine is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in finance and banking. His career includes key leadership roles at organisations such as Cuscal Ltd, eftpos, Cardtronics, and Linfox Armaguard.
David has a strong track record in managing technology and payment systems and providing strategic oversight in finance, risk management, and business development. His extensive board experience includes positions with eftpos Payments Australia, the Australian Payments and Clearing Association, and the Credit Union Financial Support System.
Currently, he serves as CEO of Regional Australia Bank, driving innovation and strategic growth in the regional financial sector.
Emma Stilts – President of Manilla Community Renewable Energy, Director of Manilla Solar, Creative Leader and Community Advocate
Emma Stilts is a dynamic leader with a background in design, community engagement, and environmental sustainability. Emma's career has spanned the UK, USA, and Australia, focusing on the intersection of creative and social impact projects.
She coordinates operations and public programs at Tamworth Regional Gallery, enhancing visitor experiences through innovative educational initiatives.
As president of Manilla Community Renewable Energy Inc., Emma is leading the development of the Manilla Solar Project, a significant community-owned solar initiative. Her involvement in organisations like Sustainable North West and the Tamworth Regional Art Collective highlights her commitment to fostering regional growth and sustainability.
Gerald Arends – Director of Komo Energy, Renewable Energy Expert and Advisor
Gerald Arends is an experienced lawyer and commercial advisor specialising in renewable energy projects. Focusing on solar, wind, and energy storage technologies, Gerald provides strategic guidance to developers, contractors, and financiers globally.
He leads Komo Energy's Project Development Services division and is the founder of Pegasus Legal, a firm dedicated to clean energy law.
Gerald is also involved with Sunshine Hydro, which is developing innovative pumped hydro storage solutions.
As a speaker, panelist, and educator on renewable energy topics, Gerald brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for sustainable energy to his work, driving impactful projects and contributing to the global clean energy transition.
About the Manilla Solar Project
The Manilla Solar Project is a community-led initiative aimed at delivering a 4.5 MW solar farm with a battery storage capacity of 5 to 10 MWh. The project will be located 2 km south of the Manilla substation on 15 hectares of the Calokerinos property and will have an expected lifespan of 25 years, with an option for an additional 10 years. Once operational, the project will generate enough energy to power approximately 2,500 homes.
Manilla Solar is designed to be 100% community-owned, with funding anticipated to come from a mix of equity investment, government grants, and potentially loans. The community crowd raise, set to open in October 2024, will allow individuals to invest up to $10,000 in the project. Full community ownership will maximise the potential to share financial returns through initiatives such as offering cheaper power to local residents, businesses, and shareholders.
The project’s broader goal is to establish a replicable model of community ownership that can be shared with other communities across the New England/North West region.