Billions in the bush: Renewable energy for regional prosperity
Read our report on the economic benefits clean energy is delivering to farmers and regional communities across Australia.
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18 Nov 2024
Large-scale renewable energy projects are estimated to deliver $1 billion to farmers and $200 million to regional communities by 2030, according to our report with Farmers for Climate Action.
Renewables are not only keeping the lights on as coal plants reach the end of their technical life, but they’re also creating jobs and alternative income streams and benefits right across Australian communities.
The report shows farmers can earn $38,500 to $45,500 per year from hosting a typical 7MW turbine and up to $1,250 per hectare from solar. For comparison, a beef farmer can expect returns of $1,500 per hectare per year in a good year.
Our analysis shows contributions are expected to deliver $213 million by 2030 and $1.9 billion to 2050, supporting regional communities to thrive.
Based on total renewable capacity, farmers and landholders in NSW are expected to receive $290 million - $371 million by 2030, while those in Queensland are expected to receive $220 million - $274 million; those in Victoria are expected to receive $238 million - $288 million, those in South Australia are expected to receive $109 million - $132 million and those in Tasmania are expected to receive $41 million to $48 million.
The report only looks at the National Electricity Market, covering eastern and southern states and territories.
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The Clean Energy Council has welcomed the Albanese Government’s funding commitments to deliver faster environmental approvals as part of its productivity agenda that will include clean energy projects in this year’s Federal Budget.
Coalition transmission backflip puts Victoria's energy security at risk
The Victorian Liberal-Nationals announcement today to halt critical infrastructure projects VNI West and Western Renewables Link would leave Victoria with a weaker and less secure electricity system, that is increasingly exposed to coal outages as Yallourn heads towards closure.
Joint submission to AEMC on security framework enhancements and clarity and transparency in security
Our joint submission to AEMC on security framework enhancements and clarity and transparency in security frameworks calls for the consolidation of the two rule change proposals, improved governance of Essential System Services, clearer planning and reporting obligations and more streamlined procurement processes.
