Community power or corporate control? The reality behind the Illawarra–Shoalhaven Community Renewables Program

The Promise of “Community Renewables”

The Illawarra–Shoalhaven Community Renewables Program looks like an inspiring idea — council-endorsed solar and battery systems, community buying power, and rewards for sharing energy through a Virtual Power Plant (VPP).

At face value, it’s the future of local clean energy. But when you look deeper, the way it’s delivered raises important questions about control, choice, and transparency.

How the program really works

The Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation (ISJO), representing Wollongong, Kiama, Shellharbour, and Shoalhaven Councils, promotes the program to residents. However, the program is managed by a large national solar retailer based in Sydney, which handles sales, installations, and VPP operations.

This means that while councils lend their names, a centralised company oversees your installation, your battery data, and your VPP participation.

So, what’s being sold?

Solar + battery packages (including retrofits)
$0-upfront or interest-free payment options
Entry into a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) that pays for exported energy

The catch? Hardware choices are limited to a few approved brands compatible with the provider’s monitoring platform. Homeowners often can’t choose their preferred inverter or battery brand, and systems may be standardised to fit bulk-buy logistics rather than individual energy needs.

Understanding the Virtual Power Plant

In a Virtual Power Plant, many home batteries are linked and controlled remotely to support the electricity grid. When demand spikes, the operator discharges power from your battery to earn grid-balancing revenue.

However, the fine print matters:

Control: The operator can charge or discharge your battery without notice.
Retailer dependency: VPP credits often rely on approved electricity plans.
Payment uncertainty: Payouts depend on how many grid “events” occur — often just a few times per year.
Data access: Continuous internet is required, giving the operator remote monitoring and data rights.

The hidden pitfalls

a) Retailer conditions

Your VPP participation depends on electricity retailer approval. Innovate Energy offers retailer freedom — your energy, your rules.

b) Restricted hardware choice

The Sydney provider offers only select battery brands. Innovate Energy is product-agnostic — systems are tailored to your usage and goals.

c) Remote battery control

Program participants allow remote discharge, which may reduce backup power during blackouts. Innovate Energy locks in your chosen backup reserve.

d) Earnings reality

While programs advertise high VPP payouts, most households see only modest returns. Innovate Energy provides real-world performance ranges so expectations are clear.

e) Outsourced installations

Installations are subcontracted, leading to potential inconsistency. Innovate Energy uses only its own licensed electricians — no subcontractors.

f) Data & Privacy

Large VPPs collect ongoing home energy data. Innovate Energy prioritises transparent, local-first monitoring where you always retain access.

Why local expertise wins

Locally owned & operated — We live where we work.
Electrician-owned — Safety and compliance are built in.
In-house technicians — No subcontractor roulette.
Product-agnostic design — The right fit for your home, not a supplier contract.
Retailer freedom — Switch anytime.
Transparent reporting — Full visibility of battery events and earnings.

Local power, local jobs, local accountability.

What should true Community Renewables look like?

Support local installers and reinvest in the region.
Offer open equipment choices.
Provide clear VPP terms and transparent earnings.
Ensure customer control over battery reserves.

Before you sign up, ask yourself:

Who actually installs and maintains my system?
Can I choose any retailer?
Who controls my battery and when?
What are realistic VPP earnings?
What happens if I move or change plans?

The local alternative: Innovate Energy

Local expertise with national-level technology
Transparent design and genuine independence
High-quality solar and battery brands
An ethical VPP model that prioritises your needs

Ready to take control of your energy?

If you’re considering solar, batteries, or joining a VPP in the Illawarra, Kiama, Shellharbour, or Shoalhaven, talk to Innovate Energy first.

We design systems that match your home, lifestyle, and energy goals — delivering real independence.

Call Innovate Energy or visit innovateenergy.com.au today.