New guidelines have been released to help ensure renewable energy projects provide clear benefits for local communities.
The Community Engagement and Social Value Guidelines set expectations for renewable energy developers. They encourage developers to work closely with landholders, nearby residents, and communities from the early stages of a project.
Developers will need to show how community feedback is considered in project planning. The guidelines also outline how projects can support local businesses, create economic opportunities, and provide community benefits.
The guidelines include requirements for clear complaint and dispute resolution processes. They aim to improve communication between developers and communities hosting renewable energy projects.
Renewable energy and transmission projects are expected to provide up to $2.3 billion in direct financial benefits to Victorian communities over the next 25 years.
In the next 12 months, around $75 million in benefits from renewable energy and transmission projects is expected to flow to communities.
The renewable energy sector is also expected to create more job opportunities. Victoria’s energy workforce is projected to grow to around 68,000 workers by 2040, creating opportunities for local businesses and regional workers.
An update to the Victorian Access Regime will also be released to improve coordination between renewable energy and transmission projects. Future projects seeking access to the electricity grid will need to meet the new community engagement requirements.
The guidelines aim to ensure communities involved in renewable energy projects receive long-term social and economic benefits.