Authors: Dan A'Vard, Alicia Webb
A community group in Warburton, east of Melbourne, is working towards the development of a small-scale hydro electricity plant.
The project
Since 2009 a group of local professionals has been researching the feasibility of restoring one of Warburton's traditional energy sources – hydroelectricity. Warburton’s street lights were once powered by hydro power, however the system was dismantled when the electrical grid was extended to the town. In recognition of global attempts to reduce emissions, the town aim to resurrect this clean power source.
The Ythan Creek in Warburton has been recognised as a potential site for a small hydro electric power plant producing in the order of 60kW, enough for up to 100 homes. In May 2010, a feasibility investigation was completed, spelling out a concept for the hydro system. That report represents the initial concept for the project which will be developed and modified significantly as it is brought closer to fruition.
The group now is seeking a range of specialist technical inputs toward the next critical stages of the project: a diversion licence from Melbourne Water and planning approval from Yarra Ranges Shire.
The ownership structure
The project team is a committee of the Upper Yarra Community Enterprise Limited (UYCEL). UYCEL is a public company owned by 500 local shareholders in the Upper Yarra Valley. It has been established for 10 years (initially as Warburton Community Financial Services Ltd) to operate first one and later two successful Bendigo Bank franchisees in Warburton and Yarra Junction respectively. In the last 10 years $1M has been distributed in grants to the local community.
According to UYCEL Executive Officer Geoff Vickers, the team is still examining models for how the enterprise will be structured, owned and managed, but the primary target will be, as always, significant and ongoing benefits to the Upper Yarra community.
The benefits
The Warburton community group believes that the project will offer many benefits to the community. These include participation and empowerment, acceptance, and education about the environment. There are also regional economic benefits from land rent, and shareholder dividends and community projects funded by power sales.