Innovative First Nations Renewable Energy System Installed
Power to Country is thrilled to announce the successful installation of a solar-powered renewable energy system for Mumuthumburru (West Island), thanks to the incredible support of our community and partners who helped raise over $150,000.
The works, completed by First Nations not for profit renewable energy developer Original Power, in partnership with Borroloola’s Ngardara Cooperative, will enable Mumuthumburru residents to return to Country, supported by a 100% renewable energy system and the restoration of critical water and communication services.
Mumuthumburru families have been displaced to the nearby township of Borroloola since 2021 when their aging homeland energy system failed and no resourcing was available for repairs. Local families led a campaign to source independent funding for restoration of energy services, including touring a short film, Power to Country, to highlight the energy challenges facing many Northern Territory homeland residents.
A Model for the Future
The success of the Mumuthumburru model demonstrates the viability of self-determined renewable energy solutions for remote communities, and the urgent need to improve homeland essential services to allow more communities, displaced by failing energy services, to return home.
By eliminating the need for dirty diesel generators and ensuring that essential circuits such as refrigeration, lighting, and air conditioning remain operational even during periods of high energy demand, Mumuthumburru’s 100% solar-powered system exemplifies the potential of modern technology to provide reliable and sustainable power for remote homelands communities.
Next Steps: Government Support and Broader Implementation
Garrwa woman Shirley Simon, a respected Elder and Power to Country storyteller, is determined to continue advocating for sustainable power solutions for other First Nations people and communities facing energy insecurity. Supported by Original Power and Ngardara Cooperative, Shirley aims to secure further government support for expanding the Mumuthumburru model to other homelands.
The Mumuthumburru model paves the way for increased resourcing for self-determined energy solutions that honour the unique needs, strengths and aspirations of First Peoples.
Shirley Simon (Garrwa): “Thanks to your generosity, solar power will guide me and my family back to our special Saltwater Country. I’m looking forward to raising the next generation on their homeland now with everything we need for a healthy life.”
Genevieve Grieves (Worimi), Co-founder of GARUWA and supervising director of the short film Power To Country: "This achievement is a testament to the power of community and the importance of self-determined solutions. Original Power and Ngardara Cooperative are proving that renewable energy is not just a dream, but a reality that can transform lives and sustain our connection to Country in a changing climate."
Scott McDinny (Garrwa), Director of Ngardara Cooperative: "The Mumuthumburru model shows what is possible when communities are empowered to take control of their energy needs. We hope this success will inspire further support and investment from the government and other stakeholders."
Lauren Mellor, Clean Energy Communities Coordinator at Original Power: "The Mumuthumburru model provides a blueprint for other homelands communities to benefit from renewable energy. With the housing crisis facing the Northern Territory, it makes sense to support homeland communities where significant housing investments have already been made, to return to Country, supported by reliable power services.”
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We invite media representatives to share this inspiring story of renewables innovation from Mumuthumburru.
For interviews with representatives of Original Power, Ngardara Cooperative and/or GARUWA, please contact:
Monique Duggan, GARUWA
0460540297
