NORTH-EAST: Crackdown on energy cowboys
Indi MHR Helen Haines has welcomed the release of VicGrid’s draft Community Engagement and Social Value Guidelines, which set out 48 expectations for renewable energy developers and transmission companies before they can access Victoria’s energy grid.
Dr Haines, who has led the national debate on reforming community engagement in the renewable energy rollout, said the draft guidelines were an important step in the right direction.
“Too often we’ve seen bullish behaviour from renewable energy developers go without consequences – finally that is set to change,” Dr Haines said.
“Regional communities are vital stakeholders contributing to the energy transition, and must be treated as such.”
The draft guidelines will require developers to engage with landholders and neighbours early in the planning process, respond to community concerns about fire and flooding risks, deliver economic benefits to communities, and end the use of non-disclosure agreements with landholders.
Dr Haines welcomed VicGrid’s confirmation that projects from developers who fail to meet these standards will not be approved.
“This is about making sure local knowledge is listened to and valued.”