Maitland Council Goes Green with 100% Renewable Energy from 2025

Maitland City Council is set to transition to 100 per cent renewable energy starting 1 January 2025, following a recent partnership with green energy utility operator, Iberdrola Australia.

Under this new agreement, key community facilities such as Maitland Regional Art Gallery, Maitland Aquatic Centre, the Maitland Administration Centre, Maitland Town Hall, and over 10,000 public streetlights will be powered entirely by renewable energy. This move aligns with Council’s existing commitment to using 100 per cent GreenPower through a State Government contract for smaller sites.

The renewable energy sources powering Maitland’s future will come from three New South Wales locations: the Capital Wind Farm in Bungendore, the Bodangora Wind Farm in Bodangora, and the Avonlie Solar Farm in Sandigo.

Maitland City Council General Manager Jeff Smith highlighted the significant financial and environmental benefits of the partnership, noting that the Council expects to save approximately $564,000 over the six-year contract period — a reduction of around nine per cent compared to current energy costs.

“Not only is this a great environmental outcome, but it’s also a smart economic decision,” Mr. Smith said. “The savings will allow us to invest more in providing essential services and infrastructure for our community.”

The initiative is part of Maitland Council’s Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2030, which was adopted last October. The strategy outlines various actions aimed at creating a more sustainable future for the region. Mr. Smith noted that reducing the Council’s reliance on non-renewable energy sources is a critical step in achieving its target of net-zero emissions by 2050.

“Our work in cutting emissions and embracing renewable energy is a key part of our broader sustainability goals. It shows we are serious about leading by example,” Mr. Smith added. “We’ll continue working towards halving emissions by 2030 and reaching net zero by 2050.”

For more information, visit mait.city/ESS.