The recent draft Energy Policy Framework for planning assessments of renewables projects has caused a major stir in industry and government circles alike. Arguably largely at odds with acceleration plans for the state’s energy transition, some of the most impactful changes include:
- A hard 2km setback (for 250m high turbines) from dwellings and dwelling entitlements.
- Visual assessment methodology for wind projects impacting dwellings and, importantly, dwelling entitlements.
- A 500m setback requirement to parks and recreation areas for wind projects.
- Specified levels of community benefit at $850 per megawatt per annum for solar projects and $1050 per megawatt per annum for wind projects.
There is an opportunity to provide feedback by the submission deadline on 29 January 2024.