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.
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.
Submission on IPART’s Review of the regulatory framework for Supply Connection Infrastructure in NSW
Our submission to IPART’s review of supply connection infrastructure in NSW highlights that proposed additional regulation for dedicated connection asset (DCA) operators could increase barriers to entry. It also outlines alternative approaches to manage risks within existing frameworks, while maintaining competition to support investment in new renewable energy projects.
Clean Energy Council response to Channel 7 Spotlight program
Ensuring integrity in supply chains is a serious global issue that cuts across multiple industries worldwide, and it deserves sustained attention from governments, companies and civil society as well as the global community.
Submission to DCCEEW on the draft Catalogue of Measures
Our submission to DCCEEW on the draft catalogue of measures to avoid and mitigate collisions of birds and bats with wind farms, calling for greater clarity on integration with the EPBC Act approval process and the Australian Collision Risk Framework, a risk-based decision matrix and model conditions, and clearer direction on curtailment, data limitations, cumulative impacts, regulatory constraints and emerging technologies.
Submission to DCCEEW on the draft Australian Collision Risk Framework
Our submission to DCCEEW on the draft Australian Collision Risk Framework for onshore and offshore wind farms calls for a proportionate, risk-based approach that avoids overly conservative outcomes and provides greater clarity on integration with the EPBC Act approval process.
