Diversifying farm income: integrating renewable energy into agriculture

The project combined a desktop review of national and international experience with on-ground insights from Western Australia. A literature review confirmed a lack of WA-specific research, which was addressed through 40 grower surveys, stakeholder interviews, and local government perspectives. This grower-led approach ensured findings reflected the realities of farm business decision-making.

Economic and environmental analysis showed that renewable energy projects can provide financial buffers, improve resilience during dry periods, and support sustainability objectives, when negotiated effectively. At the same time, social and governance challenges emerged as critical factors. Growers highlighted concerns around confidentiality clauses, contract transparency, long-term control, and community acceptance.

A key learning was that success depends as much on governance and relationships as on economics. Strong negotiation capacity, clear governance arrangements, and early, proactive engagement with neighbours and local communities were essential to building social licence. Local examples, such as community-led engagement in the West Arthur Shire, demonstrated practical ways to address these challenges.