Clean Energy Council response to 2026/27 Victorian Budget

“The Clean Energy Council welcomes the ongoing commitment by the Victorian Government to clean energy reflected in this year’s State Budget.

“Progressing with new investments and existing programs ensures that Victoria’s power system will remain secure and that regional communities will enjoy the employment, benefits and services that clean energy delivers.

“Victoria’s energy transformation is well underway, with communities in Western Victoria and Gippsland both positioned to benefit from the multi-billion dollar investment program projects are set to deliver.

“With Yallourn’s impending closure it’s essential that new generation assets are built to replace them and that the communities they border benefit fairly.

“The taxes, benefit programs, employment, procurement and network security offered from renewable energy projects are all essential ingredients for vibrant regional economies. 

“The Budget delivered today continues to provide that confidence to the market to continue its pipeline.

“Among the measures outlined in this Budget, a landmark $124.5 million funding commitment to support the development of the Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal at Port Hastings will be a key enabler of offshore wind infrastructure vital to our energy future, as well as new jobs and opportunities in regional Victoria.

“Funding for the development of a Victorian Data Centre Framework is an additional welcome first step in planning for the future growth of data centres - both as an enabling industry for Australia’s digital economy, and delivering further jobs and economic development in the regions.

“We are also pleased to see ongoing investments to oversee the Marinus Link project, a critical interconnector to further strengthen the National Electricity Market.”