Manilla Solar

Manilla Solar is a community solar project planned in North West NSW

Expression of Interest

Thank you for your interest in the Manilla Solar Project

Our Co-Investment is now open!

Project Overview

Key features of this 4.6 MW solar and battery project are:

Read on below to see why local people want to be part of this project.

"I was born and raised in Manilla and have supported the establishment of the Manilla solar project for the past 8 years. MCRE was planning the solar farm and looking for suitable land no more than 5km from the Manilla electricity substation. Nobody else came forward with a suitable site so I offered a site on our farm!
This project aligns with my personal values of supporting community and supporting sustainability and it is a natural extension of farm diversification.
If Manilla can could do this, then anyone can!"
John Calokerinos, Farmer and Solar Farm Host

"I grew up in Manilla, and my family still has strong connections to the town. We are excited to invest in the Manilla Solar Project because it will deliver both social and economic benefits to the Manilla community. We are also intrigued by the concept of genuine community ownership of power producing infrastructure and are keen to explore the associated opportunities for expansion and replication."
Kate McGrath,
Local Politician, Parent, and former Manilla resident

"I have worked in the energy industry for almost a decade and get to see the many renewable projects coming through the pipeline. For a long time now, I have wished that I could own a piece of the transition to feel even more involved, and so I'm excited that this wish is now going to come true! I believe that the Manilla Solar Project will be a solid long-term investment and am really interested to see how the community will get behind it. Having a utility-scale renewable site like this being owned by locals is truly a first for the New England region, and I hope it won't be the last."
Sam Davidson, Birmingham Garden

"Being part of Manilla Solar is about more than just pursuing a return on my investment; it's about contributing to a genuine community initiative. This project unites individuals who are passionate about the environment and committed to improving how we live. It's a socially conscious effort that will benefit future generations for years to come. I'm fortunate to have known Emma, a director of Manilla Solar, all my life, and I have full confidence in her and Gerald to make this venture a success for all stakeholders."
Wade O'Shea, Tamworth

"Investing in Manilla Solar feels like the most powerful way I can make a contribution to the future of our region, and our planet. Our environment is under pressure with climate change, yet the solution to this sometimes overwhelming problem is literally on our doorstep.
Manilla Solar is a 'home grown' renewable energy project that offers the community a localised power source, removing their reliance on polluting coal fired energy. I admire and congratulate Manilla Community Renewable Energy Inc for their hard work and dedication."
Penny Milson, Tamworth

"It's great to finally hear a positive story of community engagement and acceptance of a project that benefits not just the environment broadly, but the community has great long-term outcomes, as well as an opportunity to invest in a small or large way into a local project."
Peter Wills, Quirindi

"It feels so possible. The people I speak to, they understand the opportunity, the science and technology. They see the importance in supporting this type of project. Creating a model for energy production that improves our local economy and brings our community together."
Emma Stilts President, Manilla Community Renewable Energy Inc. Director of Manilla Solar Pty Ltd

"We are so happy supporting the Manilla community in this ambitious project. It is a natural step-up from similar raises for the Grong Grong Solar Farm and the Goulburn Dispatchable Community Solar Farm, projects that I am involved with. We expect that other communities will follow the example of Manilla – communities want to see local energy production and this is a way to take control of the way these projects deliver benefits locally and regionally!"
Gerald Arends Director of Komo Energy Pty Ltd Director of Manilla Solar Pty Ltd

Manilla Solar Project Snap Shot: Expressions of Interest now open; Project aim is to raise up to $4.5M^*; That equals engaging 2300 investors @ $2k each; Invest from $100 - $10,000 during Crowdraise*; Crowdraise investment opens 26 Oct- 15 Nov; Register your interest here.; ^*Sophisticated investors are welcome to apply