A refreshed version of the Socially Responsible Renewable Energy Development (SRRED) short course will launch on 28 April 2025, offering online training for professionals looking to improve how renewable energy projects interact with communities and the environment.
Delivered by Community Power Agency in partnership with Griffith University, SRRED is a self-paced course made up of two modules focused on community engagement and benefit sharing. The program is aimed at those working in project development, policy, and community engagement roles, and is especially useful for people managing or supporting large-scale renewable energy developments.
This course aims to equip participants with the frameworks, tools, and case studies needed to navigate the complexities of socially responsible renewable energy development.
The first module explores practical approaches to building social licence, from understanding local social contexts to developing meaningful partnerships with First Nations communities. The second module focuses on how renewable energy projects can deliver long-term benefits through inclusive co-design processes, shared ownership models, and better preparation for the energy transition.
Each module includes a workbook and approximately 20 hours of learning, totalling around 40 hours for the full course. Participants who complete both modules will receive a digital badge issued by Griffith University.
Registrations open on the day of launch, and Community Power Agency is encouraging interested participants to join the expression of interest list to stay updated.
The course is fully online with no live attendance required. Participants will have access to the SRRED Exchange — a community of practice where they can join live sessions, connect with others taking the course, and share knowledge.
“This self-paced program allows learners to engage with diverse materials at their convenience, ensuring both an interactive and accessible educational experience.”
SRRED is priced at $2,500 (including GST), with a 10% early bird discount for the first 50 registrants. A further discount is available for eligible community organisations, not-for-profits, local councils, and social enterprises, bringing the total down to $1,750 for those who qualify for both discounts.
The course has been running since 2021, and has supported developers, policymakers and advocates to better understand how projects can work with communities rather than around them.
