New Framework Turns Regional Communities from Hosts to Partners in the Energy Transition

As regional Australia becomes the front line of renewable infrastructure, The Energy Charter’s new Regional Energy Collaboration Framework (RECF) is reshaping how developers and communities work together.

The Framework guides the creation of Regional Energy Collaboration Agreements — locally tailored partnerships that define shared values, commitments and transparent reporting.

A pilot program in Victoria’s Wimmera Southern Mallee region has already seen developers and local leaders co-design benefit projects and trust-building mechanisms.

For engagement practitioners, the RECF offers a roadmap for:

• Moving from consultation to collaboration.

• Embedding transparency and local leadership.

• Designing benefit-sharing agreements that create legacy outcomes.

Read more: Engagement Institute, “Regional Energy Collaboration Framework: A new approach to building trust in regional communities.” 
Toolkit download: The Energy Charter, RECF Toolkit.