Essential Stakeholder Network Communication Hub

Thank you for being an active participant in the Essential Stakeholder Network.

Essential Energy values the vital role of Essential Stakeholder Network members in providing feedback and shaping outcomes that matter to our customers. Your involvement helps ensure our decisions remain transparent, inclusive, and responsive to local priorities.

This site is only visible to everyone. Only members of the Essential Stakeholder Network can participate in surveys and submissions.

Thank you for being an active participant in the Essential Stakeholder Network.

Essential Energy values the vital role of Essential Stakeholder Network members in providing feedback and shaping outcomes that matter to our customers. Your involvement helps ensure our decisions remain transparent, inclusive, and responsive to local priorities.

This site is only visible to everyone. Only members of the Essential Stakeholder Network can participate in surveys and submissions.

  • You cannot leave comment in this blogpost unless you are a part of the project panel.

    Portable SAPS support emergency communications

    Essential Energy is strengthening its emergency response with portable Stand Alone Power Systems (SAPS). These units keep telecommunications online when the network is heavily damaged.

    During floods, bushfires or storms, telecommunications towers can lose power. This can disrupt how emergency services communicate. Portable SAPS provide temporary power so critical radio networks can continue operating.

    Project Manager Lee Parr said communication is essential during major events. “These systems help ensure services like NSW Police, the State Emergency Service and Rural Fire Service can stay connected while the network is being restored,” he said.

    Each trailer-mounted unit is designed for mobility. They can be deployed in remote or hard-to-access areas, including rugged terrain, helping the organisation respond across regional, rural and remote New South Wales.

    The systems combine solar, battery storage and a backup diesel generator to provide a reliable, self-contained power source.

    Six units have been delivered with Federal Government support through the Telecommunications Disaster Resilience Innovation Program and are ready to deploy when needed.

    As extreme weather events increase, portable SAPS will play an important role in maintaining critical communications during major outages.

    Essential Energy is strengthening its emergency response with portable Stand Alone Power Systems (SAPS). These units keep telecommunications online when the network is heavily damaged.

    During floods, bushfires or storms, telecommunications towers can lose power. This can disrupt how emergency services communicate. Portable SAPS provide temporary power so critical radio networks can continue operating.

    Project Manager Lee Parr said communication is essential during major events. “These systems help ensure services like NSW Police, the State Emergency Service and Rural Fire Service can stay connected while the network is being restored,” he said.

    Each trailer-mounted unit is designed for mobility. They can be deployed in remote or hard-to-access areas, including rugged terrain, helping the organisation respond across regional, rural and remote New South Wales.

    The systems combine solar, battery storage and a backup diesel generator to provide a reliable, self-contained power source.

    Six units have been delivered with Federal Government support through the Telecommunications Disaster Resilience Innovation Program and are ready to deploy when needed.

    As extreme weather events increase, portable SAPS will play an important role in maintaining critical communications during major outages.

  • You cannot leave comment in this blogpost unless you are a part of the project panel.

    2027 Apprentice Program applications now open

    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.
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    External recruitment is now underway for our 2027 Apprentice Program, with opportunities available across our network.

    Essential Energy apprenticeships are four-year training programs allowing participants to kick start their career and earn while they learn, with a combination of on-the-job and classroom-based learning as they work towards gaining a nationally recognised trade qualification.

    Roles will commence in January 2027 and include Apprentice Powerline Workers, Cable Jointers, Zone Substation Electrical Technicians and Mechanical Fleet Technicians - based in depots and fleet workshops across our network area.

    As part of the organisation’s commitment to building an inclusive, diverse workplace, a number of roles are advertised as Female Identified or First Nations Identified positions.

    Apprentice recruitment is undertaken annually, in line with section 3.2.5 (b) of the Essential Energy Enterprise Agreement 2024.

    Employees are strongly encouraged to refer friends, family or community members who may be interested in applying. Anyone wishing to learn more or submit an application can visit the Apprenticeships page on our website. You can also support the campaign by engaging with posts on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram and sharing them within your networks. 

    Applications close at 11:55pm (AEST) on Sunday 12 July 2026.

    External recruitment is now underway for our 2027 Apprentice Program, with opportunities available across our network.

    Essential Energy apprenticeships are four-year training programs allowing participants to kick start their career and earn while they learn, with a combination of on-the-job and classroom-based learning as they work towards gaining a nationally recognised trade qualification.

    Roles will commence in January 2027 and include Apprentice Powerline Workers, Cable Jointers, Zone Substation Electrical Technicians and Mechanical Fleet Technicians - based in depots and fleet workshops across our network area.

    As part of the organisation’s commitment to building an inclusive, diverse workplace, a number of roles are advertised as Female Identified or First Nations Identified positions.

    Apprentice recruitment is undertaken annually, in line with section 3.2.5 (b) of the Essential Energy Enterprise Agreement 2024.

    Employees are strongly encouraged to refer friends, family or community members who may be interested in applying. Anyone wishing to learn more or submit an application can visit the Apprenticeships page on our website. You can also support the campaign by engaging with posts on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram and sharing them within your networks. 

    Applications close at 11:55pm (AEST) on Sunday 12 July 2026.

  • You cannot leave comment in this blogpost unless you are a part of the project panel.

    AEMC consultation - distribution network planning & reporting

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    The AEMC has recently published its draft determination on Enhancing Distribution Network Planning and Reporting, formerly the IDSP rule change. At a high level, the draft determination proposes to substantially change how Essential Energy planning information is reported, including replacing the existing Distribution Annual Planning Report with a new five yearly Distribution Network Development Plan and annual update process.

    The proposed framework is intended to provide all stakeholders with longer term visibility of distribution network planning, including a 20 year planning horizon, greater use of scenarios, and improved access to network data over time. Stakeholders interested in long-term distribution planning, CER integration, network capacity and future investment signals may wish to follow the AEMC process and participate where relevant.

    The AEMC is holding a webinar on Thursday 14 May 2026 at 4:00pm AEST. You can register here. Essential Energy will be attending.

    The AEMC has recently published its draft determination on Enhancing Distribution Network Planning and Reporting, formerly the IDSP rule change. At a high level, the draft determination proposes to substantially change how Essential Energy planning information is reported, including replacing the existing Distribution Annual Planning Report with a new five yearly Distribution Network Development Plan and annual update process.

    The proposed framework is intended to provide all stakeholders with longer term visibility of distribution network planning, including a 20 year planning horizon, greater use of scenarios, and improved access to network data over time. Stakeholders interested in long-term distribution planning, CER integration, network capacity and future investment signals may wish to follow the AEMC process and participate where relevant.

    The AEMC is holding a webinar on Thursday 14 May 2026 at 4:00pm AEST. You can register here. Essential Energy will be attending.

  • You cannot leave comment in this blogpost unless you are a part of the project panel.

    Helping life support customers plan ahead for power interruptions

    Collaboration among energy providers led to the Life Support Power Outage Plan initiative, which aims to improve emergency preparedness for Australians relying on medical equipment at home during power outages.

    The Life Support Power Outage Plan initiative was co-led by Essential Energy, alongside other energy businesses from across the sector, in a coordinated collaboration under The Energy Charter to address a critical gap in emergency preparedness for Life Support customers.

    Protecting customers who rely on medical equipment at home when the power goes out presents a great challenge. For many Australians who rely on life support equipment, live with chronic health conditions, or face mobility and communication challenges, unplanned outages can pose serious risks to health and safety. This is only amplified in times of extreme weather events or regional, rural and remote areas, where resources may already be limited.

    Through consultations with life support customers, carers, and healthcare providers, The Energy Charter identified a critical gap: there were no accessible, personalised tools to help these individuals prepare for power disruptions. Existing resources were often generic, difficult to navigate, or not tailored to the specific needs of people using equipment like ventilators, electric wheelchairs, or refrigerated medicines.

    Together, along with extensive consultation with over 200 individuals with lived experience, the project has delivered accessible planning tools, translated resources, and a simple “CHECK. PLAN. DO.” framework to help vulnerable customers prepare for unplanned power outages.

    The plan provides free and accessible tools, including a simple checklist and a downloadable plan that people can tailor to their own circumstances and share with carers, family members and health professionals.

    Visit Check. Plan. Do. Power Outage Plan to access the resource.

    Collaboration among energy providers led to the Life Support Power Outage Plan initiative, which aims to improve emergency preparedness for Australians relying on medical equipment at home during power outages.

    The Life Support Power Outage Plan initiative was co-led by Essential Energy, alongside other energy businesses from across the sector, in a coordinated collaboration under The Energy Charter to address a critical gap in emergency preparedness for Life Support customers.

    Protecting customers who rely on medical equipment at home when the power goes out presents a great challenge. For many Australians who rely on life support equipment, live with chronic health conditions, or face mobility and communication challenges, unplanned outages can pose serious risks to health and safety. This is only amplified in times of extreme weather events or regional, rural and remote areas, where resources may already be limited.

    Through consultations with life support customers, carers, and healthcare providers, The Energy Charter identified a critical gap: there were no accessible, personalised tools to help these individuals prepare for power disruptions. Existing resources were often generic, difficult to navigate, or not tailored to the specific needs of people using equipment like ventilators, electric wheelchairs, or refrigerated medicines.

    Together, along with extensive consultation with over 200 individuals with lived experience, the project has delivered accessible planning tools, translated resources, and a simple “CHECK. PLAN. DO.” framework to help vulnerable customers prepare for unplanned power outages.

    The plan provides free and accessible tools, including a simple checklist and a downloadable plan that people can tailor to their own circumstances and share with carers, family members and health professionals.

    Visit Check. Plan. Do. Power Outage Plan to access the resource.

  • You cannot leave comment in this blogpost unless you are a part of the project panel.

    2027 Graduate Program applications now open

    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

    Applications for the 2027 Graduate Program are open from 7 April to 10 May 2026, offering over 20 roles and a two year development program to build future capability and workforce diversity across Essential Energy.

    More than 20 Graduate positions are available across a range of disciplines that support our long term workforce needs. These include electrical engineering, AI, digital and data focused fields, cyber security, procurement, and other roles that contribute to the future capability of Essential Energy.

    Graduates join Essential Energy in a fulltime position, with a structured two-year program designed to support the transition from university into the workforce. Participants gain access to rotations across the business, a dedicated development program, networking and connections, as well as buddy and mentoring support.

    Anyone wishing to learn more or submit an application can visit the Graduate Pathways page on our website.

    Applications close at 11:55pm (AEST) on Sunday, 10 May 2026.


    Applications for the 2027 Graduate Program are open from 7 April to 10 May 2026, offering over 20 roles and a two year development program to build future capability and workforce diversity across Essential Energy.

    More than 20 Graduate positions are available across a range of disciplines that support our long term workforce needs. These include electrical engineering, AI, digital and data focused fields, cyber security, procurement, and other roles that contribute to the future capability of Essential Energy.

    Graduates join Essential Energy in a fulltime position, with a structured two-year program designed to support the transition from university into the workforce. Participants gain access to rotations across the business, a dedicated development program, networking and connections, as well as buddy and mentoring support.

    Anyone wishing to learn more or submit an application can visit the Graduate Pathways page on our website.

    Applications close at 11:55pm (AEST) on Sunday, 10 May 2026.


  • You cannot leave comment in this blogpost unless you are a part of the project panel.

    The future of home energy management: a Forum on home battery installation and advice

    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

    Business NSW and the Australian National University Centre for Energy Systems are hosting a free in-person forum to support installers as rooftop solar and home batteries become central to Australia’s electricity future.

    With new Federal Government programs driving uptake and changing customer expectations, installers are navigating new technologies, evolving regulations and more complex consumer conversations.

    Join to hear the latest industry insights and help shape a draft consumer advisory competency framework - a practical tool designed to support installers in delivering clear, confident advice in a rapidly changing market.

    Hamish Wheatley, Essential Energy ASP Connections Manager will be joining as a keynote speaker and to contribute to the conversation.

    What: The future of home energy management: A forum on home battery installation and advice
    When: 9 – 1 pm, Tuesday, 24 March 2026
    Where: Business NSW Events Centre, 8 Chifley Square (next door to 52 Martin Place), Sydney
    Who: This event is open to battery installers, installer businesses, installer apprentices/trainees, vocational education and training professionals, consumer advocates and industry representatives.
    Why: To help tradespeople shape the customer energy experience.

    To register


    Business NSW and the Australian National University Centre for Energy Systems are hosting a free in-person forum to support installers as rooftop solar and home batteries become central to Australia’s electricity future.

    With new Federal Government programs driving uptake and changing customer expectations, installers are navigating new technologies, evolving regulations and more complex consumer conversations.

    Join to hear the latest industry insights and help shape a draft consumer advisory competency framework - a practical tool designed to support installers in delivering clear, confident advice in a rapidly changing market.

    Hamish Wheatley, Essential Energy ASP Connections Manager will be joining as a keynote speaker and to contribute to the conversation.

    What: The future of home energy management: A forum on home battery installation and advice
    When: 9 – 1 pm, Tuesday, 24 March 2026
    Where: Business NSW Events Centre, 8 Chifley Square (next door to 52 Martin Place), Sydney
    Who: This event is open to battery installers, installer businesses, installer apprentices/trainees, vocational education and training professionals, consumer advocates and industry representatives.
    Why: To help tradespeople shape the customer energy experience.

    To register


  • You cannot leave comment in this blogpost unless you are a part of the project panel.

    Bring Your Bills - EWON community events

    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

    Bring Your Bill Days are free community drop‑in sessions that give customers the opportunity to bring their electricity bill and talk through it one‑on‑one with energy experts. The sessions help people better understand their bill, tariffs and energy use, explore ways to reduce costs, and learn about available support options and concessions. No appointments are needed - community members can simply drop in with their bill and questions.

    Essential Energy is pleased to support this initiative and is looking forward to being there on:

    • 25 March in Bega
    • 13 May in Kempsey


    For more information, visit the EWON events page.


    Bring Your Bill Days are free community drop‑in sessions that give customers the opportunity to bring their electricity bill and talk through it one‑on‑one with energy experts. The sessions help people better understand their bill, tariffs and energy use, explore ways to reduce costs, and learn about available support options and concessions. No appointments are needed - community members can simply drop in with their bill and questions.

    Essential Energy is pleased to support this initiative and is looking forward to being there on:

    • 25 March in Bega
    • 13 May in Kempsey


    For more information, visit the EWON events page.


  • You cannot leave comment in this blogpost unless you are a part of the project panel.

    Essential Grants Open for 2026

    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

    Hello, we have had a question raised by a member: 'if not-for-profit organisations can receive a grant to help with their power bills?'

    In line with the Program’s aims, grant funding could not be used to pay energy bills, however we would look to fund projects that enable these organisations to reduce their energy bills. For example:

    • installations of solar panels, batteries and other technologies that enable greater use of renewable energy
    • upgrades that improve energy efficiency and/or reduce energy consumption such as insulation, smart thermostats, energy efficient appliances, and energy audits
    • programs that build energy literacy to empower communities to make informed energy choices.

    The Essential Grants webpage (Essential Grants) has a list of some project concepts that we have provided to inspire project ideas, and the Terms and Conditions provide a complete list of eligibility criteria.

    Essential Energy’s 2026 Essential Grants program is now open, offering up to $15,000 to community groups and charities across regional, rural and remote NSW. With $150,000 in total funding available, the program supports projects that advance the energy transition or strengthen community sustainability and climate resilience.

    Applications close at 5pm on 31 March 2026.

    Learn more here to share with your members and networks.


    Hello, we have had a question raised by a member: 'if not-for-profit organisations can receive a grant to help with their power bills?'

    In line with the Program’s aims, grant funding could not be used to pay energy bills, however we would look to fund projects that enable these organisations to reduce their energy bills. For example:

    • installations of solar panels, batteries and other technologies that enable greater use of renewable energy
    • upgrades that improve energy efficiency and/or reduce energy consumption such as insulation, smart thermostats, energy efficient appliances, and energy audits
    • programs that build energy literacy to empower communities to make informed energy choices.

    The Essential Grants webpage (Essential Grants) has a list of some project concepts that we have provided to inspire project ideas, and the Terms and Conditions provide a complete list of eligibility criteria.

    Essential Energy’s 2026 Essential Grants program is now open, offering up to $15,000 to community groups and charities across regional, rural and remote NSW. With $150,000 in total funding available, the program supports projects that advance the energy transition or strengthen community sustainability and climate resilience.

    Applications close at 5pm on 31 March 2026.

    Learn more here to share with your members and networks.


  • You cannot leave comment in this blogpost unless you are a part of the project panel.

    Electrical Safety Webinars


    Essential Energy is hosting a series of free, one‑hour online safety webinars designed for people working near the electricity network, including those in:

    • Agriculture
    • Building and construction
    • Emergency services
    • Small and medium businesses
    • Local councils and community organisations

    Our public safety webinars “Working Near the Electricity Network” are offered to encourage organisations and individuals to prioritise work safety, and take actions to reduce incidents, injuries and fatalities.

    Please share with your members, networks and register here to participate


    Safety Awareness Talks

    Essential Energy’s Public Safety Specialist is available for workplace face-to-face electricity safety awareness talks targeted to a range of industries including the Agribusiness sector, Building and Construction, Emergency Services, Aviation and aerial applicators, Transport and High Loads. Get in touch and these can be organised.



    Essential Energy is hosting a series of free, one‑hour online safety webinars designed for people working near the electricity network, including those in:

    • Agriculture
    • Building and construction
    • Emergency services
    • Small and medium businesses
    • Local councils and community organisations

    Our public safety webinars “Working Near the Electricity Network” are offered to encourage organisations and individuals to prioritise work safety, and take actions to reduce incidents, injuries and fatalities.

    Please share with your members, networks and register here to participate


    Safety Awareness Talks

    Essential Energy’s Public Safety Specialist is available for workplace face-to-face electricity safety awareness talks targeted to a range of industries including the Agribusiness sector, Building and Construction, Emergency Services, Aviation and aerial applicators, Transport and High Loads. Get in touch and these can be organised.


  • You cannot leave comment in this blogpost unless you are a part of the project panel.

    Solar Industry Regional Roadshow

    We're partnering with the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) delivering a regional roadshow for solar and battery installers and retailers across NSW.

    Attendees will gain practical guidance on:

    • Emergency Backstop Mechanism
    • NSW CER Installer Portal
    • Flexible export limits
    • BCNSW eCert transition
    • Battery safety and installation of gateway devices.

    There are 10 sessions across regional NSW from 4pm-6.30pm in local venues during February and March. Combined, attendees can earn up to 40 CPD points.

    To book: https://bit.ly/46bCGHu



    We're partnering with the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) delivering a regional roadshow for solar and battery installers and retailers across NSW.

    Attendees will gain practical guidance on:

    • Emergency Backstop Mechanism
    • NSW CER Installer Portal
    • Flexible export limits
    • BCNSW eCert transition
    • Battery safety and installation of gateway devices.

    There are 10 sessions across regional NSW from 4pm-6.30pm in local venues during February and March. Combined, attendees can earn up to 40 CPD points.

    To book: https://bit.ly/46bCGHu



Page last updated: 07 Oct 2026, 03:35 PM