Diversified Farmland Income: Assessing the impact and opportunities for integrating renewable energy generation into farming systems and regional economies

An overview study is crucial to strategise Green Energy (GE) projects in regional communities effectively.

The project team will conduct a comprehensive desktop analysis focused on exploring the integration of renewable energy projects within the agricultural sector in WA. The primary objective is to identify opportunities where GE and renewable energy initiatives can enhance and complement existing agricultural businesses, ultimately contributing to the bolstering of business resilience in the region.

This project focuses on analysing renewable energy integration in WA’s agricultural sector, exploring emerging land uses like energy farms and off-farm enterprises, and how they may provide a diversified income for growers and regional communities. Through close engagement with major stakeholders, the project aims to understand the community opposition and opportunities in relation to agricultural enterprises engaging in renewable energy projects.

This project can empower local communities and growers by providing knowledge to enhance informed decision making. Current perception is that GE projects are driven by external businesses rather than local businesses proactively seeking renewable energy as a positive addition to existing resources. This approach would ensure consideration of local impact, growth opportunities in regional towns and provision of a diversified farmland income in a variable and changing climate.