Driving forces in the renewables race from across Australia have been chosen from more than 100 applicants for the First Nations Clean Energy Network's second PowerMakers program.

Following the success of last year's inaugural program, the four-day event in Wyalup from November 4-8 will further embed 37 emerging First Nations leaders in the clean energy transition.

The 2024 program by Australia's leading First Nations clean energy network will equip participants with specific and relevant knowledge, skills and resources to help them emerge as leaders in the renewables transition and capable of advancing clean energy projects, as well as driving positive change in communities.

First Nations Clean Energy Network co-chair Karrina Nolan, a descendent of the Yorta Yorta people, said significant renewable energy resources would be needed to power Australia's transition, all of which need consent from Traditional Owners.

"This is the time to make sure our people and communities are powerful enough for our aspirations for economic self determination, to be at the centre, and for the renewables revolution to be powered by us, on our terms," she said.

"Our capacity to negotiate well for strong agreements, benefit-sharing and equity, to exercise good governance, enter strong partnerships with proponents, and build energy security and affordability through First Nations-led development, leadership and ownership of our energy futures is a key feature of PowerMakers.

"We want to ensure we do this transition right, through changing the expectations of industry, building the capability of our communities, and encouraging government to invest in the right frameworks, incentives and system design."

As a national First Nations-led network, now with more than 1,000 Indigenous members (individuals and organisations), the FNCEN has led advocacy for First Nations benefits in the Federal Government's Capacity Investment Scheme and Future Made in Australia bill.

It has also kick-started the long-awaited, soon-to-be-released First Nations Clean Energy Strategy developed by all energy ministers.

Ms Nolan said building Indigenous capacity was the key ingredient in a successful transition for Australia.

"The calibre of this year's PowerMakers cohort illustrates the level of leadership and commitment our communities have about clean energy, and their determination to ensure our people are leading this transition," she said.

2024 PowerMakers participant and Yuin Nation member, Helen Wright said the program would enhance her skills supporting First Nations communities navigate and leverage renewables deals with government and industry.

"If projects are set up and managed correctly, they can deliver real economic opportunities for First Nations."

Ms Wright, from Wright Consulting Group Aboriginal Corporation in the ACT, said a seat at the table was just a start, with equal partnerships in projects sought on Country.

"I want to hear how Nations already on their clean energy path in partnership with industry and government are doing it, and what lessons we can learn," she said.

"I'll then share that ... to further support First Nations navigate the many processes and find opportunities for leveraging their solid asset base, to create economic wealth creation opportunities."

More than 60 per cent of Australia's current Renewable Energy Zones are located on lands and sea under Native Title.

Arrernte man Chrae Tawhai, director of renewable energy specialist Envision Energy in Queensland, had an early passion for renewable energy, installing and servicing solar systems in remote communities in his hometown of Mparntwe/Alice Springs.

He now wants to provide power to urban and remote communities across Queensland and New South Wales, saying PowerMakers would broaden his networks and knowledge of the industry there.

"Renewable energy, particularly on Country, can save people from spending money on energy bills, and also provide employment," he said.

"I'm now in a position where I can offer my skills to others... mentoring and training First Nations youth in the energy sector, and empowering them to build a better future through clean energy opportunities popping up."

Malu Kiwai man Mas Banu is a community engagement facilitator at the NSW Coalition of Aboriginal Peak Organisations (CAPO) who hopes to use the Powermakers program in Perth to enhance development of renewable energy industry partnerships with Aboriginal-controlled organisations.

"I was born in the Torres Strait and grew up on Boigu Island where climate change impacts are a real and everyday threat," he said.

"In my current role we advocate to meet 17 socio-economic targets in Closing the Gap.

"In my opinion, renewable energy falls under a number of those targets... and PowerMakers will build my knowledge across the sector to help us better meet those targets."

Mr Banu said the move from fossil fuels to renewable energy was a pivotal transition for First Nations communities particularly.

"It's essential we establish strong, organised frameworks to ensure our active participation in the sector," Mr Banu said.

"In doing PowerMakers, I hope to gain deeper insights into sustainable energy practices, expand my network with others who share similar goals so that we can work together toward impactful, long-term solutions in renewable energy, and strengthen my skills to effectively contribute to the clean energy transition."

Kalkadoon, Guugu Yimithirr, Nyamal woman Nikki Chenoweth is chair of Queensland Renewables Energy Council's First Nations working group, as well as a senior Indigenous engagement advisor with Stanwell Corporation.

She said PowerMakers would help her reinforce the clean energy sector's benefits to other First Nations leaders, and the importance of community engagement and consent.

"It will assist my work ensuring industry helps to build thriving communities, by delivering social, environmental and economic benefits," she said.

"I have worked in the Indigenous affairs space for decades across many industries... Now I am working with a government-owned corporation that is transitioning from coal fire to renewables working toward net zero, with a huge pipeline of green energy projects that include wind, solar and hydrogen."

More information about the PowerMakers program and participants is available online.