NSW launches Renewable Energy Planning Framework
The New South Wales (NSW) government in Australia has introduced the Renewable Energy Planning Framework to streamline planning for renewable projects, ensuring investment stability and supporting regional economic growth.
Aligned with NSW’s Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap and emissions targets, the framework promotes transparent assessments of wind, transmission, and solar projects, emphasizing benefit-sharing with local communities.
Key guidelines include setbacks for visual impact mitigation, hypothetical dwelling assessments, and direct benefits for regions, estimated to bring over A$400 million ($261 million) to community and government initiatives.
Additionally, the Renewable Energy Transition Update outlines ongoing progress, with 29 renewable projects (5.7 GW generation, 6.3 GW storage) approved since April.
The Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) transmission project has received planning approval, with six projects designated as Critical State Significant Infrastructure. NSW is also addressing cumulative impacts in REZs, such as housing and water security.
NSW Minister Penny Sharpe emphasized the importance of transparent planning for a reliable, clean energy system, noting NSW’s leadership in modernizing the electricity network.