A PUSH by the opposition to restore a community voice when considering the location of future renewable projects has gathered momentum with the Liberal and National parties releasing their Regional Energy Development Policy.
The policy would reinstate the right of appeal to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal – which was withdrawn earlier this year – ensuring community voices were heard in the planning process.
Amongst other proposals, the policy would ensure major transmission and large-scale wind and solar generation projects face a rigorous and independent planning panel assessment, whilst instituting a default two kilometre buffer zone around proposed wind towers to minimise the impact on residential properties and local communities.
Overhead lines will need to adhere to strict setback requirements to minimise both visual and environmental impact, with the opposition stating they will revoke planning scheme amendments that have stripped communities of planning powers over high voltage transmission lines.
Particularly important for regional areas, is the requirement that lower-emission generators, high-voltage transmission lines and large-scale battery owners comply with all relevant bushfire overlays.
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Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, said regional communities had been ignored for too long when it comes to the location of renewable energy projects.
For too long, residents across the Euroa electorate have been denied a voice amid the renewables push from the State Government and multi-national corporations, which has included a lack of effective consultation about projects in areas like Colbinabbin, Winton, Ruffy, and the Strathbogie Ranges.
“Too often we are seeing a lack of community consultation result in our prime land being covered with renewable projects when there are several more suitable options available,” Ms Cleeland said.
“These projects will profoundly impact the lives and land of our farmers and landowners, and it is deeply disappointing to see this government disregard their valuable input on these matters.
Ms Cleeland said the policy would be a breakthrough for regional communities, including those impacted by the proposed Cooba Solar Facility, the Fera Wind Farm, the Winton Hydrogen Refuelling Station, and many others set to be built in local areas.
"I don’t want to see communities be ridden roughshod over," said Member for Eildon Cindy McLeish.
"Already there are proposals in the area and details around the projects are minimal and communities are kept in the dark.
"This is not fair on communities – they deserve to know and they should have a voice."
She believes the state government is treating regional communities dreadfully in regard to situating large scale renewable projects close.
Both Ms Mcleish and Ms Cleeland said the opposition's proposal restores the balance between the roll-out of renewable energy and the changes to transmission networks.
And whilst they support the transition away from coal, they emphasised this must occur in close consultation with regional communities.
“We will also instate a bond system – something that already operates in the mining sector – to guarantee that developers ensure all decommissioned projects are fully cleaned up and restored," said Ms Cleeland, elaborating on the proposal.
“Our policy will also protect the community from dodgy operators who, for their own personal gain, want to get approval for projects then flip them to buyers, unknown to the community.
“Local communities must have a seat at the table in shaping renewable energy projects,” Ms Cleeland said.
“A right to appeal process and rigorous planning assessments, not only protects our environment but the values and livelihoods of the people who live there."
