SMEC's experience extends to project assessment, design and implementation in various sectors of renewable energy generation, including solar, wind power, small hydro and tidal power. SMEC co-operates with a number of energy research institutes in Australia and elsewhere and contributes advice to the energy programs of the Australian Greenhouse Office. SMEC has worked in the field with a variety of Australian and international non-government organisations.

SMEC's approach to renewable energy is based on the following principles:

• appraisal of community needs and priorities through consultation
• presentation of technical options for community assessment
• community involvement in the process of design and construction.