The Community Energy Upgrades Fund (CEUF) Round 1 results have been announced, with $50 million awarded across 58 projects to help councils decarbonise their community facilities.

About the CEUF

The Community Energy Upgrades Fund (CEUF) is a joint initiative between the Australian Government and state and territory governments, designed to support local councils in reducing energy costs and emissions. The fund provides grants for electrification, renewable energy adoption, battery storage, and energy efficiency improvements in community facilities such as libraries, aquatic centres, sports complexes, and council buildings. By upgrading infrastructure, councils can reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower operational costs, and contribute to Australia’s net-zero targets.

Key takeaways from Round 1

165 applications were submitted and 35% of projects received funding. Here’s a breakdown of where the funding is going:

✅ Electrification projects: At least $30 million was awarded to replace gas heating with electric heat pumps in community pools, a major step towards reducing emissions.

✅ Solar and battery storage: More than $8 million is being invested in renewable energy solutions for council facilities.

✅ Energy efficiency upgrades: Around $5 million will go towards HVAC improvements, LED lighting, and demand management strategies.

Electrification emerged as the clear winner, with many councils now positioned to run facilities on 100% renewable electricity, bringing Australia closer to its net-zero goals.

CEUF Round 2

For councils that missed out in Round 1, Round 2 is now open, providing another opportunity to secure funding for:

✔️ Electrification and renewables – heat pumps, solar, and battery storage

✔️ Energy efficiency upgrades – lighting, HVAC, and demand management

✔️Innovative energy solutions – projects that cut emissions and enhance sustainability

With $100 million in total investment expected, councils have a strong incentive to refine their applications and put forward their best projects.

How to Apply for CEUF Round 2

Eligibility: The grant is open to local governments looking to upgrade their community facilities with energy-efficient solutions. Councils that applied in Round 1 but were unsuccessful are encouraged to refine their applications and reapply.

Key Dates: Applications for Round 2 are now open—don’t miss your chance to apply! The submission deadline is Friday, 13 June 2025, so start preparing your application today. For full eligibility criteria, application guidelines, and submission details, head over to CEUF webpage.

How 100% Renewables can help

At 100% Renewables, we have a proven track record of securing CEUF funding for councils. In Round 1, we helped multiple councils submit successful applications, ensuring their projects aligned with funding priorities.

Our expertise includes:

✅ Identifying and scoping projects that meet CEUF funding criteria

✅ Refining Round 1 applications to improve success rates in Round 2

✅ Crafting compelling applications that showcase feasibility, impact, and readiness

✅ Maximising funding opportunities to secure the best possible outcomes

Don’t miss out! If your council is ready to apply for CEUF Round 2, now is the time to act.

If you need assistance with your climate transition strategy and action plan or a climate risk assessment, our team can help develop a comprehensive, future-ready approach to sustainability, ensuring projects align with funding priorities.

📩 Contact us today to strengthen your application, secure funding for energy upgrades, and accelerate your council’s transition to net zero. Reach out to Barbara or Patrick for more information.

Feel free to use an excerpt of this blog on your own site, newsletter, blog, etc. Just send us a copy or link and include the following text at the end of the excerpt: “This content is reprinted from 100% Renewables Pty Ltd’s blog.