Barengi Gadjin Land Council set out to build knowledge and capacity to manage community energy systems for its members by developing in-house expertise. Community Projects Lead Shane explored various options and, after careful analysis, selected a solar and battery solution developed by local provider Wade’s. He says the partnership has already delivered valuable skills and measurable savings for the Land Council.

Shane explains that success hinged on finding a supplier whose principles matched BGLC’s commitment to community benefit. “Our goal was to build the expertise to deliver and manage community energy systems for our members, so I began looking for a partner who shared our values,” he says. “I reached out to Adam and Stuart at Wade’s because we needed a trusted local expert. From the outset, Wade’s were engaged, collaborative and committed.”

Close teamwork set the tone for the entire project. Working side by side, the two teams refined a system specification that balanced performance with future scalability. “We collaborated on a design tailored to our technical requirements, with Wade’s completing installation and commissioning within just two and a half days.”

The system meets BGLC’s current demand and allows for extra capacity to be exported into the energy market. Live data delivered by the Sigen battery app is now an important decision‑making tool. “The Sigen battery app allows our team to track consumption and performance in real time, enabling us to analyse our energy data and prepare for market pricing.”

Results came quickly. Within months, the Land Council had cut its reliance on the grid and, just as importantly, adopted a more strategic mindset around energy use. “In just over two months, we’ve reduced grid imports by 64 percent, marking a shift from passive consumption to strategic energy management, where timing, storage and value optimisation now guide our decisions. We’re now developing the capabilities required to respond to real‑time energy pricing and market signals.”

Beyond economics, the project strengthens BGLC’s responsibility to Country by cutting fossil fuel dependence and setting the stage for new community‑led energy initiatives. “The project supports our obligation to care for Country by reducing our reliance on non-renewable based energy, while laying the groundwork for community education and larger projects such as a virtual energy network.”

Reflecting on the journey, Shane says Wade’s delivered on every promise. “Wade’s were reliable and genuine throughout. They understood our objectives, from developing technical skills to strengthening community relationships. They stayed committed every step of the way.”