Eight local projects will share in more than $32,000 in funding from the AGL Energy Limited (AGL) Broken Hill Solar Plant Construction Community Fund.

Broken Hill Solar Plant Project Manager, Adam Mackett, said there was a lot of interest, with 17 applications for the second round of funding.

“There were many good applications for the funding, however the independent application review panel, consisting of community members and the Broken Hill City Council, decided to fund applicants who had not received funding previously.”

“Supporting the work of the local organisations within the communities we operate is a priority for us. We hope the contribution helps these organisations continue to keep doing their great work in providing invaluable services to local residents,” said Mr Mackett.

Of the recipients, the Broken Hill YMCA will receive $8,000 for an inflatable adventure tunnel.

Broken Hill YMCA Centre Manager Shane Simmons said he was extremely grateful for AGL’s support through the Community Fund program.

“This will help fulfil our overall vision of a healthier, happier and more connected Broken Hill Community.”

“It will also allow us to purchase an inflatable adventure tunnel that will be used to complement the existing equipment we offer for children’s birthday parties, private hire and social events,” Mr Simmons said.

Two school recipients included the Broken Hill School of the Air ($4,500) for science kits for students for home visits and ‘mini’ school group sessions, and Sacred Heart Primary ($750) for a flag pole to display the Aboriginal flag.

Other recipients included the Warra Warra Legal Services ($4,000) to continue to provide domestic violence services, 2DRY FM ($2,500) for a new computer, the Silver City Archers Club ($5,016) for a portable toilet designed for wheel chair access, Barrier Sporting Car Club ($4,345) for a new toilet facility, and the Broken Hill Historical Society ($3,000) for air conditioning.

AGL will host a morning tea presentation for all recipients early next year.

The 53 MW Broken Hill solar plant achieved full generation in October this year and was completed in partnership with the Federal Government’s Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), the NSW Government, the Broken Hill City Council, the local community and the project partners First Solar.

About AGL

AGL is one of Australia's leading integrated energy companies and largest ASX listed owner, operator and developer of renewable energy generation in the country. Drawing on over 175 years of experience, AGL operates retail and merchant energy businesses, power generation assets and an upstream gas portfolio. AGL has one of Australia's largest retail energy and dual fuel customer bases. AGL has a diverse power generation portfolio including base, peaking and intermediate generation plants, spread across traditional thermal generation as well as renewable sources including hydro, wind, landfill gas and biomass. AGL is taking action toward creating a sustainable energy future for our investors, communities and customers.