Victoria Simplifies Process for Constructing Renewable Projects, Stripping Locals of Appealing Power
The Victorian government is expediting the development process for renewable projects by categorizing them as a significant economic development, eliminating the planning panel process, and third party appeals.
This new approach will provide renewable projects in the state with a quicker approval process, with decisions on applications for significant projects to be made within four months.
Community opponents and the NIMBY movement will no longer be able to delay projects through the VCAT process, ensuring that renewable plans stuck in approvals also have access to this accelerated process.
The government sees this move as providing “certainty” for the growing renewable energy sector in the state, with $90 billion worth of investment value and the potential to create 15,000 jobs.
The Development Facilitation Program will treat renewable energy projects like other significant projects, such as large housing developments, and monitor them continually to identify and resolve any obstacles.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan announced the new measures at the Yaloak South Wind Farm, emphasizing the government’s commitment to cutting red tape and facilitating projects that offer reliable and affordable power for Victorians.
Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio highlighted the importance of streamlining planning approvals for renewable energy projects, especially as the cost of fossil fuels rises globally and old coal-fired generators in Victoria are closing.
A dedicated team within the government will oversee all renewable energy applications to ensure they move through the approval process efficiently. Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny emphasized that expediting renewables in the planning process will lead to more projects coming online sooner and provide households with cleaner and more affordable energy.
