Newcastle bootcamp to teach businesses how PPAs can help cut costs and carbon
A free to attend bootcamp is coming up later this month in Newcastle, offering practical guidance on power purchase agreements (PPAs)
Businesses will soon have the chance to gain hands-on knowledge about renewable energy procurement at the Newcastle Corporate PPA Buyers' Training Bootcamp. Hosted by EnergyCo in collaboration with the Business Renewables Centre Australia (BRC-A), the workshop is designed to help organisations navigate the complexities of power purchase agreements (PPAs) and leverage them to achieve energy security, cost stability, and sustainability goals.
The bootcamp, set to take place on March 26 - 27, will build on introductory workshops previously held in the Hunter and New England regions. This 1.5-day training will focus on practical, scenario-based learning and peer-to-peer insights.
Participants will learn from energy buyers who have purchased renewable electricity for their business and PPA experts, including Shane De Wit, Newcastle Airport; Sam Parris, Ampcontrol; Chris Bartlett, City of Newcastle; Scott McKenry, Victorian Business Buyers' Group; Ruth Madden, Port of Newcastle; Lexi Crouch, Powering Tomorrow: Regional Councils NSW PPA and PPA experts Ben Waters, Presync; Anita Stadler, ERM Energetics; Ben Spencer, Schneider Electric; Alan Rai, CORE Markets; Angela Riley, Smartest Energy; Emmett Williams, Flow Power; Sal Tringali; Snowy Hydro & Lachlan Martin, Edify Energy.
What Are PPAs?
PPAs are contracts between energy buyers, such as businesses or councils, and energy sellers, including renewable energy project developers or retailers. They provide a fixed price and supply of renewable energy over an agreed term, shielding buyers from volatile electricity market prices and offering a reliable energy source.
As explained by EnergyCo, “PPAs are a win-win solution for both the project developer and the energy buyer.” Not only do they provide financial certainty for renewable energy projects, but they also help buyers reduce their carbon footprint and achieve net zero targets.
Why Consider a PPA?
For buyers, PPAs offer several advantages:
- Cost stability: Locking in a fixed electricity price protects organisations from fluctuating market rates.
- Net zero commitments: Using renewable energy through PPAs supports decarbonisation and demonstrates environmental responsibility.
- Community benefits: Many renewable energy projects contribute to local economies, create jobs, and improve infrastructure.
In regional areas like Newcastle, PPAs can also bring broader benefits by supporting renewable energy developments that drive investment and employment opportunities.
Who Should Attend the Bootcamp?
The workshop is aimed at energy buyers across sectors, including local councils, businesses, and institutions such as universities, healthcare facilities, and property owners. The training is particularly useful for roles such as energy procurement managers, sustainability officers, finance managers, and legal teams involved in contract negotiation.
Participants will learn to:
- Understand the basics of Australia’s electricity market.
- Identify PPA options suited to their organisation’s goals.
- Manage risks and align contracts with net zero strategies.
- Navigate the procurement process with confidence.
Bootcamp Highlights
The event will feature three interactive modules:
- Buyer Basics – Covering PPA structures, net zero alignment, and social license considerations.
- Building the Deal – Focused on internal approval processes, engaging consultants, and understanding buyer groups.
- Going to Market – Offering separate streams for retail and wholesale PPAs, including contract terms, risk management, and project selection.
Attendees will also benefit from one-on-one Q&A sessions with experienced buyers, developers, and retailers.
Event Details and Cost
The Newcastle bootcamp is priced at $50 plus GST per participant, with the fee refunded upon attendance. This low-cost entry is designed to encourage widespread participation and support energy buyers in making informed decisions.
With growing interest in renewable energy solutions, this training offers a timely opportunity for Newcastle’s organisations to explore how PPAs can support cost-effective and sustainable energy procurement. For those ready to take action, the bootcamp promises a mix of expert insights, real-world case studies, and collaborative learning.
