Elaine & Clarendon Benefit Sharing Workshops – Community Voices Shaping Local Impact

On the weekend of November 29–30, 2025, residents from Elaine and Clarendon came together for a pair of workshops dedicated to shaping the future of benefit sharing from the Elaine Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project. Hosted by Akaysha Energy, these sessions marked a significant step in ensuring local voices guide how project funding delivers real, lasting value to our communities.

Building Trust Through Engagement

The workshops were designed to foster open dialogue, transparency, and genuine collaboration. Attendees included landowners, near neighbours, local councillors, business and community representatives, and members of the Akaysha project team. The Elaine session was held at the Mechanics Institute Hall, while Clarendon’s was an impromptu gathering at the Recreational Hall, responding to a direct request from residents.

Akaysha Energy reaffirmed its commitment to providing $50,000 per year for the life of the project—well above government requirements. This funding is intended to be shaped by community priorities, with flexibility to deliver larger lump sums for major initiatives if desired.

Community-Driven Ideas

Participants shared a wide range of ideas for how benefit sharing funds could be used, focusing on themes such as:

• Visibility & Identity: Welcome signage, historical markers, and community boards to promote town pride.
• Connection & Infrastructure: Beautification projects, playgrounds, BBQ areas, and improvements to public facilities.
• Safety: Fire safety equipment for the Elaine CFA brigade, including breathing apparatus and thermal imaging cameras.
• Sustainability: Tree planting, indigenous seed banks, and partnerships for environmental initiatives.
• Support & Services: Uniforms for local clubs and the potential formation of a district pony club.

A full register of ideas will be maintained and updated as further input is gathered from ongoing engagement and surveys.

Transparent Governance & Next Steps

Workshop discussions emphasized the importance of transparent fund management, annual reporting, and strong community representation in decision-making. Residents expressed a preference for a Community Benefit Fund managed by a local committee, with Akaysha oversight to ensure accountability.

Immediate actions include allocating unspent community grants to replace aging air conditioning units at the Elaine Mechanics Hall, and launching a benefit sharing survey to collect broader input from Elaine, Clarendon, and surrounding areas.

Ongoing Engagement

Akaysha Energy is committed to ongoing dialogue, with updates to be shared via newsletters, local businesses, and social media. No decisions will be made without further community input, ensuring that the benefit sharing process remains inclusive and responsive to local needs.

Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed ideas. Together, we’re building a legacy of positive impact for Elaine, Clarendon, and beyond.