A ZEN path to zero emissions in the shire
Published on 20 June 2025
The Noosa Shire’s transition to renewable energy, net zero emissions and greater cost savings continues to advance thanks to Council’s partnership with Zero Emissions Noosa Inc (ZEN).
Mayor Frank Wilkie said the ZEN partnership builds on Australia’s highest rates/per capita in the world of residential solar use.
“Our community understands the economic and environmental benefits of low-emission technologies but there are barriers to businesses and low income households taking advantage,” Mayor Wilkie said.
“ZEN Inc has been bridging this gap and influencing positive change through a range of programs, projects and community education. The end result is cost savings for residents and businesses and a cleaner environment.”
“Noosa Council has held a long relationship with Zero Emissions Noosa however formalised this with a funded partnership agreement in December 2023 to deliver activities and projects that align with our Climate Change Response Plan and work towards net zero emissions for the Noosa Shire.
“In 2024 alone, ZEN Inc delivered a 21-fold return on investment for Council and a value add of more than $2.6 million for every rate payer dollar granted to them.
“This was achieved through its volunteer-run projects, funds from state and federal organisations and the sale of goods and services which have helped local organisations and businesses transition to renewable energy and zero emissions.”
Director Strategy & Environment Kim Rawlings said Noosa Council staff work collaboratively with ZEN Inc. on a range of projects including the Noosaville Community Battery Project and the Noosa EV & Electrify Everything Expo.
“They’re a key organisation in our community to help drive down community emissions – from buildings and businesses as well as from transport activities,” she said.
“ZEN Inc’s work in promoting solar and batteries to households and businesses is also helping to ease cost of living pressures, bringing electricity costs down, especially for low income earners, as demonstrated in the Noosa Low Income Solar Project which ZEN Inc is currently running.”
This year’s Noosa EV & Electrify Everything Expo will be held on Sunday 22 June in Noosa Junction and will feature the largest collection of electric vehicles in South East Queensland.
Mayor Frank Wilkie on Council's partnership with Zero Emissions Noosa Inc