Charles Sturt University, Media Release, 8 February 2022

Charles Sturt University has contracted with Iberdrola Australia to supply renewable grid electricity for its large market sites from the Bodangora Wind Farm.

The contract, established with support from energy consultant World Kinect Energy Services, will account for more than 95 per cent of Charles Sturt’s total grid electricity consumption.

Bodangora Wind Farm, which employed more than 140 people at the peak of construction phase and created seven ongoing local jobs, is located approximately 60km south-east of Dubbo and provides benefits to the NSW Orana Region, including a community benefit fund.

Iberdrola have contributed to more than 30 projects in the region so far, and the direct investment by the wind farm into the community is expected to be more than $3 million over its lifespan.

Charles Sturt’s investment in renewably sourced electricity is a continuation of its commitment to sustainability, including carbon reduction, and forms a key component of the University’s 2030 Clean Energy Strategy. 

The annual carbon emission reduction achieved through this contract is expected to exceed 18,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents and have a similar impact to taking 5,800 cars off the road. This will reduce Charles Sturt’s carbon footprint by more than 45 per cent.

Charles Sturt University Vice-Chancellor Professor Renée Leon said the Iberdrola contract reinforces the University’s ranking within the top 10 per cent of world universities for climate action.

“We are extremely pleased to partner with Iberdrola Australia to use 100 per cent renewable electricity from 2022,” she said.

“We take our commitment to decarbonisation seriously. The Iberdrola contract complements the University’s ongoing campus solar panel project, which has seen more than 14,000 solar panels installed across our campuses.

“Having our power supplied from the Bodangora Wind Farm, which is within Charles Sturt’s footprint, means more jobs and revenue in our communities.

“We are proud to be using our buying power for good.” 

Charles Sturt Sustainability Manager Mr Ed Maher said the partnership will provide benefits to the community while helping the University initiate change.

“This project is a great example of how our regional communities can benefit from a low carbon future,” Mr Maher said.

“Benefits are not just limited to the environment but are also economic. We are really proud of our role in helping to accelerate this change.”

EGM Energy Markets at Iberdrola Australia Mr Tim Nelson said the company was pleased to aid the University in assisting its sustainability goals.

“Their long-term renewable energy supply agreement is linked to the Bodangora Wind Farm in regional New South Wales, tying their green energy outcomes to a specific project and community,” he said.

“We are delighted to have hosted them at the site and look forward to working together closely in the future.”