In 2023, Mycelia Renewables Ltd. initiated the Mycelia Energy Collective (MEC) pilot — a bold experiment in reclaiming energy as a Commons.
The question we posed: “What if energy could be used to remove inequalities, not reinforce them?”
From kitchen table conversations to co-ordinated action, 175 members — households, small businesses, and community centres — joined forces to pilot a new model of regenerative energy. This was more than a project. It was proof of possibility.
Three strategies were implemented to lower energy costs and increase local ownership of power generation:
- Energy literacy events to support community members better control their energy consumption and reduce bills.
- Energy assessments and retrofits for 20 households experiencing cost of living pressures and reduced liveability in the home.
- Solar and battery installs with small businesses, lowering energy costs and increasing reliable energy supply.
Integral to the MEC model is the creation of income streams to subsidise the work at a community level, including a relationship with an energy retailer. In addition, collective members donated funds to support energy efficiency works in households struggling to pay bills, resulting in:
- 89% of participants reported improved comfort, control, and reduced energy anxiety.
- Low-income households shared they could redirect savings to essentials
- Participants voiced increased agency and belonging
Funds raised for the pilot included donations of $68,500 through the Mycelia FRRR fundraising Account. After the conclusion of the pilot in Aug 2024, three new donors provided critical finance of $75,000 to fine tune the model and plan for the future. With an FRRR Community-led Climate Solutions grant of $60k awarded in Dec 2024, we are now ready to scale and replicate.
Mycelia is working with First Nations partners and rural communities to adapt the model to local conditions and contribute to cultural, social and economic resilience. There is enormous potential to deliver targeted variations of the model in multiple communities, sharing the benefits of the energy transition.
Mycelia is seeking blended finance support, including grants and concessional loans, to help fund the core team, community co-ordination infrastructure, and new energy installs, ensuring we maintain momentum over the next 3 – 5 years while our regenerative finance model matures.
You can support Mycelia Renewables via their FRRR Fundraising Account