The NSW Government has announced its Renewable Energy Planning Framework which will form a key part of the development assessment process renewable energy projects and associated infrastructure in NSW.
Full details published by the NSW Government including an overview of the framework, transitional arrangements and FAQ's can be accessed here: Renewable Energy Planning Framework.
The Framework is comprised of a series of guidelines and technical guidances in relation to:
- wind energy for onshore projects (Wind Energy Guideline);
- solar energy projects of State significance (Large-Scale Solar Energy Guideline);
- large-scale transmission infrastructure (Transmission Guideline);
- hydrogen sector developments (Hydrogen Guideline);
- benefit sharing between project applicants and communities (Benefit Sharing Guideline);
- private agreements between project applicants and landowners (Private Agreement Guidelines).
Driven by the NSW Government’s review of renewable energy progress and policy in the Electricity Supply and Reliability Check-Up, the Framework is set to streamline planning with clear, standardised guidelines which in turn lead to greater community, proponent and investor certainty. Ultimately, the goal is to hit the ambitious 20-year target of 12 GW of new renewable energy and 2 GW of long-duration storage set by the Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap.
Key highlights of the Framework:
- clear guidelines for the assessment of wind, solar, and transmission projects;
- emphasis on community benefit sharing;
- guidance on the NSW Hydrogen Strategy;
- increased investment certainty;
- smooth transition from traditional to renewable energy.
All information on this site is of a general nature only and is not intended to be relied upon as, nor to be a substitute for, specific legal professional advice. No responsibility for the loss occasioned to any person acting on or refraining from action as a result of any material published can be accepted.
