Help shape SEC’s Horsham community benefit fund

12 June 2025

The SEC is inviting people in Horsham to help shape how benefits from SEC’s large-scale solar farm and renewable energy storage project are shared locally through a new community benefit fund.

Community engagement kicks off this month and provides locals the opportunity to have their say on how the fund should be designed and invested to best support local projects and priorities that matter most to Horsham.

Funding of $126,000 during the three-year construction period and an additional $2 million over the project’s operational life will be made available to communities in the region.

The fund is just one way the SEC’s Renewable Energy Park – Horsham is delivering benefits to the local community. Construction began in February this year and, to date, more than 70 people have worked on site, with half of these workers coming from the Wimmera region.

Owned 100% by Victorians, the $370 million project has the capacity to generate enough renewable energy to power around 51,000 homes each year and will create around 246 jobs, including 20 positions for apprentices, trainees and cadets.

SEC CEO Chris Miller encouraged people in the community to have their say on where the funds should be directed.

“We want this fund to reflect local priorities—which is why we’re asking Horsham residents to tell us what matters most to them. This will ensure the fund supports local initiatives, services and projects and delivers long-term, positive outcomes for the Horsham community,” Mr Miller said.

“The funds are just one component of our broader benefits sharing approach, with the project delivering a range of benefits to the local community including prioritising local employment and providing opportunities for local businesses, sub-contractors, social enterprises and First Peoples.

“We’re also working with local stakeholders and the community on additional areas where the SEC can support over the long term.”

From now through to the end of July, the SEC will engage with local residents, community groups and stakeholders through in-person and online events, surveys and community information sessions.

Community input will help guide the design of the fund, including funding priorities and delivery models- ensuring the benefits of the project are shared by those who call Horsham home.

To learn more about the fund and have your say, visit Engage Victoria.