Calling City of Melton residents to have a say on the Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub Community Benefit Fund

17 November 2025

Locals in the City of Melton and nearby areas, including Plumpton, Hillside, Diggers Rest, Fraser Rise and Sydenham are invited to share their thoughts on how benefits from the Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub in Plumpton will be distributed, through the creation of a new Community Benefit Fund.

Co-owned by SEC and Equis Australia, construction of one of the world’s biggest batteries has been underway since December 2023, and is set to be fully operational by the end of the year with the capacity to power 200,000 homes over peak periods.

Once operational, SEC and Equis will provide a Community Benefit Fund worth $2.5 million in total, or $100,000 a year for the operational life of the project (25 years), and are calling on City of Melton residents to help shape how the fund is used.

The fund will look to support the delivery of programs earmarked by the community as essential, such as encouraging participation in higher education through scholarships and improving community safety.

To ensure the Community Benefit Fund reflects local priorities, SEC and Equis will be engaging with the community throughout November and December. This will give local residents, businesses and community organisations the opportunity to share their ideas on how and where the fund should be invested to deliver lasting value for the community.

SEC Executive General Manager, Assets Lane Crockett encouraged people to contribute to the fund design.

“We are keen to hear directly from residents and ensure the fund goes towards what matters most to the Melton community,” Mr Crockett said.

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who takes the time to have their say. This feedback will not only help us better support the community’s priorities, but it will also guide the fund’s administration to ensure the biggest impact.

The engagement process will offer a variety of ways for the community to participate, including in person and online options. Details on how to take part are available here.

Equis Director Roby Camagong said the fund would reflect local priorities.

“We’re committed to working closely with Melton residents, businesses and community groups to shape a $2.5 million fund that delivers meaningful local benefits from the new battery project," he said.

Following the engagement period, SEC and Equis will review the feedback and report back to the community.

As part of SEC and Equis’ commitment to support the community, the Hub has already delivered significant economic benefits, including the creation of jobs and training opportunities.  More than 1,200 people, including over 70 apprentices, cadets and trainees, have worked across all aspects of the project.

For more information about the Hub, visit SEC - Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub online.