
How it works
The model outlined in Renewable Newstead’s business plan, is (preferably) for a single energy retailer, which is also a renewable energy generator to finance and operate the solar farm at Newstead and retail the generated energy to local consumers.

Cheaper electricity for Newstead and surrounds
Retail tariffs would be structured to reward daytime energy use as opposed to the former off-peak tariff model which was designed to match energy demand to coal-fired generators. New tariffs would match energy demand to solar farm output instead.
The model promises that loyal customers i.e. those signing up to buy energy from the farm for 10-15 years would reduce their energy bills by at least 10 per cent and by up to 30 per cent on current prices.

Current model
Energy comes from the grid to Newstead homes (some with solar panels) where it’s billed by various retailers charging different tariffs.

Our proposed model
Energy from Newstead’s solar farm is fed into the grid and then to Newstead homes where it’s billed by a retailer offering an electricity price that includes incentives for locals who sign up as customers. Watch our News & Resources page for updates on incentives.
Important elements of the model and why we chose them
“I believe that renewables must be a major part of our energy budget if our species is to survive. The time to implement is now, while we still have some non-renewables left to do it with. And why Newstead? Well, why not?
Denis Miller

Key benefits of the model
Newstead customers’ power bills are expected to fall by 10 to 30 per cent.
Newstead customers will be able to use more energy without paying higher distribution network charges.
Sign-up is optional. No-one will be forced to switch to the Newstead solar farm energy retailer.
The model paves the way for long-term security of investment for small-scale community solar projects built locally.
Renewable electricity will be cheaper than bottled gas or wood, providing an alternative in Newstead which does not have piped gas and where wood is becoming increasingly expensive.