Citizens Own Renewable Energy Network Australia (CORENA)

CORENA is an Australian charity accelerating climate action by turning donations into ongoing, multiplying impact.

Since 2013, we’ve enabled Australians to fund practical climate solutions, such as solar, batteries, and energy efficiency upgrades—for community organisations across the country. These projects not only reduce carbon emissions but also lower energy costs for organisations already under financial pressure.

What makes CORENA unique is our revolving energy fund. Donations are not spent once, they are reused. As loans are repaid through energy savings, funds are reinvested into new projects, creating a continuous cycle of impact.

This means a single donation goes further. For example, we estimate that every $100 contributed to our earliest projects has already generated over $450 in climate action.

To date, CORENA has funded more than $1.9 million in projects across Australia, helping community organisations collectively avoid over 4,000 tonnes of carbon emissions and save more than 6,500 MWh of electricity.

By supporting CORENA, donors enable a scalable, financially sustainable model that delivers both environmental and social benefits, strengthening community organisations while accelerating Australia’s transition to a low-carbon future.

Our current priorities include expanding the revolving fund to support new projects, as well as building the energy management capacity of participating organisations to maximise long-term impact.

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