Council reaps rewards from new energy contract

14th Jan 2025

Armidale Regional Council (ARC) is set to make significant savings of more than $250,000 after signing a new green energy agreement with Origin Zero.
The new agreement aligns with Council’s Renewable Energy Action Plan (REAP) goals ensuring ARC is taking a proactive stance in relation to climate change and seeking to address emissions both within the organisation and through leadership within and support of the community.
Council’s current contract for Large Site Electricity and Street Lighting is due to expire on December 31, 2024 and it has traditionally partaken in a group tender process run by Local Government Procurement (LGP) on behalf of participating NSW Councils. In the past, this has resulted in a beneficial financial rate based on the buying power of the many participating Councils.
However, due to the group buy limiting flexibility in contract terms, changes in the energy market and the national supply and demand issues, the cost of electricity had quadrupled for Councils. This was despite the group initiative, with the likelihood of more volatility to come in the future.
ARC undertook to ‘go it alone’ with a direct to market approach, by first conducting an Expression of Interest (EOI) and then entering into a tender process to secure better value from the market. Importantly, the scope included by seeking a renewable retail energy supplier and renewables transition partner.
“This new energy agreement marks a significant step towards a sustainable future for our community,” said ARC Mayor Sam Coupland.
“By securing a more flexible contract that now includes 100% renewable energy, we are not only honouring our Renewable Energy Action Plan (REAP) and Project Zero 30 commitments, but also making a real difference in our environmental impact.
“This agreement is an important step in ensuring we deliver on our promises to the community, drive sustainability, and make cost-effective choices that benefit everyone.
“The use of the 100% renewable energy will also result in 2000-plus tonnes of carbon reduction. It’s a win for both our economy and the planet.”
ARC is taking a proactive stance in relation to climate change, seeking to address emissions both within the organisation and through leadership within and support of the community. This has recently included electric cars, mowers and folklifts being added to our fleet.

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Council reaps rewards from new energy contract

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