The Australian Mango Industry Association (AMIA) is continuing to look at ways it can assist growers with the cost of production.

One initiative AMIA is looking into is a ‘Sustainable Energy Co-operative Pilot Program’ with Maximum Energy, and other horticulture industries, which aims to reduce energy costs.

AMIA chief executive officer, Brett Kelly said the rising cost of production is a key challenge for growers in the mango and many other horticulture industries. “Being sustainable and reducing emissions are also top of mind for businesses. That is why AMIA is looking into this initiative.

“This pilot program has enormous potential for our mango growers, to save on energy costs and run a more sustainable business. I am excited to explore this opportunity with Maximum Energy,” Mr Kelly said.

The pilot program will provide an opportunity to develop a market leading, innovative energy co-operative program.

Emerging technologies such as aggregated Solar Photovoltaic (PV) technology and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) will be leveraged to drive an ingenious energy sharing model across mango businesses in a mango growing region.

This can then also be extended to energy sharing between the mango and other horticulture industries if successful.

Mr Kelly said aims of the program included energy security, climate resilience, reducing emissions and providing profitability benefits to AMIA members.

The program will begin with a grower survey, followed by site analysis and then a modelling and feasibility study before site optimisation and final project implementation.

Mr Kelly said this milestone driven approach reduces risks for growers, as the program will only be progressed if it meets approved thresholds, and of course members are interested in progressing. No cost is incurred until a viable investment and commercial model is demonstrated.

Maximum Energy has a strong heritage in the renewable energy transition sector and bring a wealth of knowledge including via their accreditation system—the Sustainable Energy Commitment (SEC).

Smart Energy Council CEO John Grimes said, “This comprehensive framework considers how organisations can build a competitive advantage through energy, and importantly takes the risk and guesswork out of the transition to a sustainable energy future.”

The Australian Banana Growers’ Council is also looking into the program.

This follows an announcement by AMIA last year about looking into the co-operative business model with the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals (BCCM) and how this model can help mango businesses compete and scale by working together, while at the same time remaining independent businesses at the farm gate.

About Maximum Energy

Maximum Energy plays an important advisory role for businesses and communities, supporting them on their sustainable energy transition. Their vision is to help organisations achieve both sustainable and economic outcomes by building energy resilience through strategy, implementation, and ongoing energy optimisation.

With a strong commitment to governance and reporting, Maximum Energy is investing in Australia’s horticulture sector through programs such as this ‘Sustainable Energy Co-operative Pilot Program’.