An Indigenous clean energy partnership will result in the development of a wind farm in Queensland, with hopes it will set a precedent for shared equity projects for First Nations in Australia's transition to renewables.
European Energy Australia and the First Nations Bailai, Gurang, Gooreng Gooreng, and Taribelang Bunda People (FNBGGGTB) Development Corporation announced the Aldoga Wind Farm late last month as the first project in their renewable energy partnership, which was struck in May.
The fresh approach to the clean energy development in in Gladstone comes after extensive Traditional Owner engagement from the outset of the project.
Capacity of the wind farm would be determined after a grid assessment process and feasibility studies, but could be up to 250MW capacity, potentially reducing carbon emissions by more than five million tonnes annually.
The equity partnership would also likely lead to additional investment and jobs across the region.
FNBGGGTB Development Corporation chair Marcia McCullough said continuing their relationship with European Energy is "crucial to safeguarding our participation in green energy projects in the region".
"We value the opportunity to be involved from the outset and look forward to participating in productive commercial opportunities, which respect and benefit our Country, our people and our culture," she said.
Ms McCullough said achieving shared prosperity agreements would give the corporation control of its destiny, and allow them to take care of Country, of their community and, in doing so, their culture.
FNBGGGTB skills-based director Matthew Cooke said the equity partnership signalled the first time First Nations engagement as Traditional Owners began early in a local development.
"European Energy certainly has taken the invitation by us as Traditional Owners to partner and collaborate," he said.
"It hopefully sets a precedent and a standard that goes beyond any government legislation or policy."