Imagine moving into a new home surrounded by bushland, eager to make it as energy efficient as possible, but overwhelmed by the sheer volume of choices. That was the experience of Ella Rubeli and her young family when they relocated to Hardys Bay on the Bouddi Peninsula.

But sometimes a small community can make a big difference and, for residents of the peninsula like Ella, the vision of a sustainable, self- sufficient community is becoming a reality, thanks to the work of a small group of locals who founded the not-for-profit, Electrify Bouddi.

Empowering Bouddi, one household at a time

‘The biggest challenge isn’t just getting people to install solar panels or buy an electric car, it’s helping them navigate the overwhelming amount of information out there,’ says Electrify Bouddi’s chair, energy expert Mark Ellis. ‘Every household is different, so the solutions need to be tailored. That’s what we do — hold people’s hands through the process.’

And it’s working. Electrify Bouddi has already gathered 200 members, proving there is strong local interest in making the switch to cleaner, smarter energy.

Community power-sharing

One of the most exciting projects is a power-sharing scheme. This initiative allows residents to trade excess solar power with those who need it most – like homes in shaded areas.

‘We have an electric car but no solar [mature trees cast shadows across the house most of the day],’ says Ella. ‘So Mark lets us park in his garage to charge during the day using his excess solar energy. It’s a fantastic example of how this community is making sustainability practical and accessible.’

This power-sharing pilot is the first step towards establishing a ‘virtual power plant’ in Bouddi, where renewable energy and battery storage resources are shared across the community. ‘It’s all about finding ways to maximise the energy we generate locally,’ Mark explains. ‘If we can get it right here, it could become a model for other regions.’

From knowledge to action

Electrify Bouddi isn’t just about big-picture projects. It also provides practical guidance on everyday changes that can make a difference, like upgrading insulation or choosing the right energy-efficient appliances.

With 40 per cent of the Peninsula’s housing used as holiday homes, an important initiative is also making them more sustainable.

‘We’re working closely with local real estate agents and property managers to develop strategies that help holiday homeowners see the long-term financial and environmental benefits of sustainable upgrades,’ Mark says.

The group regularly runs events where residents can meet like- minded locals and hear from experts about the latest in green energy solutions. Members receive a free newsletter packed with updates, advice, and connections to trusted suppliers.

‘We don’t have time to wait for governments to do this for us,’ says Mark. ‘There’s so much we can do ourselves and Electrify Bouddi is here to help make that happen.’

If you want to cut your energy bills, shrink your carbon footprint, or be part of a future-focused community, Electrify Bouddi is ready to welcome you.