A group of 17 organisations, led by the Nature Conservation Council of NSW (NCC), has released a joint statement outlining policy recommendations for improving the rollout of renewable energy in NSW’s Renewable Energy Zones (REZs). The statement, titled Strengthening NSW Renewable Energy Zones: Joint policy recommendations to improve outcomes for nature and communities, urges the NSW Government and developers to ensure that renewable energy projects deliver environmental and social benefits.
NCC and its partners developed the recommendations based on community feedback from the New England and Hunter REZs, where renewable energy projects are already progressing. The statement argues that while transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy is necessary for reducing emissions, the process must also support biodiversity, First Nations engagement, and local communities.
“We urgently need to act on climate to protect nature. Getting off coal and moving to clean renewable energy is our best chance to protect NSW’s biodiversity and have a thriving natural environment,” the statement reads.
Key Recommendations
The joint statement outlines three key recommendations:
1. Stronger Engagement with First Nations Communities
The statement calls for meaningful consultation with First Nations communities throughout the planning, construction, operation, and decommissioning phases of renewable energy projects. This includes prioritising First Nations business participation in project tenders and adequately resourcing ranger programs. It also urges the NSW Government to collaborate with the Federal Government and First Nations communities on implementing the First Nations Clean Energy Strategy.
2. Prioritising Nature Protection and Restoration
The statement proposes that each REZ should have clear ecological protection and restoration priorities in place before projects begin. Specific measures include:
- Identifying ‘no-go’ zones for high-value habitats and climate corridors.
- Developing post-mining land use plans in coal-mining regions, ensuring existing rehabilitation obligations are met and publicly transparent.
- Financial incentives for landholders to restore habitats in collaboration with developers.
The statement also urges the NSW Department of Planning and EnergyCo to take an active role in coordinating developments to maximise environmental benefits. Developers should be held accountable for delivering regional nature restoration commitments, with biodiversity outcomes considered in planning approvals and tender processes.
“There needs to be a shift towards ensuring renewable energy development actively contributes to improving local ecosystems, not just minimising damage,” the statement asserts.
3. Strengthening Community Benefits and Consultation
To ensure communities benefit from the transition, the statement recommends developing regional community benefit plans. These plans should address concerns such as discounted power for local residents and co-ownership of infrastructure like community batteries.
The statement also calls for clearer guidelines on ‘early and meaningful’ community engagement. Developers should provide sufficient notice for community meetings, ensure consultation is accessible to all, and offer resources to support community participation in decision-making.
Next Steps for NSW’s Renewable Energy Rollout
The NSW Government is encouraged to update planning guidelines and work with developers to implement these recommendations. Ensuring transparent processes, stronger environmental protections, and deeper community engagement is seen as essential for maintaining social licence for renewable energy projects.
The statement is signed by 17 organisations, including Hunter Renewal, Community Power Agency, National Parks Association of NSW, and Hunter Jobs Alliance.
