Clarity for clean energy planning unblocks project delays in Victoria

Clean Energy Council General Manager, Planning and Environment, Bronya Lipski, said the landmark document provides much-needed guidance on how to assess and manage the impacts of renewable energy developments in the State and is a major step forward for Victoria’s planning and approvals process for onshore wind projects, where years of uncertainty have stalled progress and shaken investor confidence.  

“For too long, wind farm developers and decision-makers have been stuck in a confusing maze of draft and interim guidance material, especially relating to brolga and bat impact assessment. This has been met with project delays in recent years which has significantly impacted Australia's transition to clean energy,” Ms Lipski said.

“This Handbook brings welcome resolution and creates a pathway forward in Victoria.

“Every renewable energy project is designed to reduce the environmental harm caused by fossil fuels. The Handbook acknowledges this through guiding principles that reflect the broader role of renewable energy in reducing climate risk to biodiversity and communities - and supports better, faster decisions that serve both nature and the climate,” she said. 

Key improvements outlined in the Handbook include:

• Resolution of brolga impact guidance, replacing outdated interim material with a clear, science-based framework allowing better environmental protection alongside timely decision-making. The longstanding uncertainty around brolga impact assessment has been a significant barrier for projects in western Victoria.
• More predictable environmental impact assessment processes, reducing uncertainty for all parties; 
• Greater clarity, helping to improve assessment timeframes and address costly delays in permit decisions; 
• Fair and transparent transitional arrangements that protect projects already in the approvals pipeline. 

The Clean Energy Council has worked closely with DEECA and its members to ensure the Handbook strikes the right balance between protecting Victoria’s unique environment and delivering energy security, connecting DEECA with its members through forums to resolve constraints in the draft guidance and push for a clear, workable final version.

“Since the Willatook Wind Farm recommendations in mid-2023, we have consistently called for resolution to the brolga and bat impact stalemate that has made it nearly impossible for developers to progress onshore wind projects in Victoria,” Ms Lipski said. 

“This is a big win for common sense and collaboration.”

ENDS

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact: 

Liam Straughan
Clean Energy Council Media Officer
+61 409 470 683