The following statement is attributable to Clean Energy Council National Spokesperson, Chris O'Keefe:
“Queensland leads the country in attracting investment in the resources and clean energy sector, and the industry is committed to engaging with the Queensland Government to protect this pipeline of investment.
“As an industry we are always pleased to work closely with governments and regulators to ensure that communities that might be affected by our projects can have the opportunity to be fully involved and that the processes that evaluate the social and environmental impacts are rigorous.
“It’s important for investor certainty that appropriate steps are taken to communicate and consult with industry on changes to such processes and measures, to minimise delays in approvals processes and any impact on jobs, investment and the energy system more broadly.
“Early and ongoing engagement is important, both for investor confidence and to minimise impact to our energy system in Australia. Energy supply has a direct impact on bills and any disruption to that can impact affordability for customers. Government decision-making must take these considerations into account.
“The Clean Energy Council represents close to 1,000 members across the clean energy supply chain as the peak national industry body. We expect the highest standards from our members and the industry is committed to continually improving the ways it engages with local communities.
“We will continue working collaboratively with the Queensland Local and State Governments and other State and Federal Governments to ensure that there’s a standard process and framework for ongoing and early community consultation on major projects; that there are clear guidelines for developing major projects, including early notification for landholders; and that our industry is meeting best practice standards when it comes to community engagement, benefits and consultation.
The clean energy sector delivers $68 billion for regional Australia, including direct payments to farmers and local communities. We are keen to ensure that investment into renewable energy projects in Queensland can continue.Chris O'Keefe Clean Energy Council National Spokesperson
“These projects deliver significant economic benefits and opportunities to local communities through local jobs, new amenities, roads, and financial benefits to landholders and neighbouring communities. Any delays put at risk the benefits of renewables projects being delivered to communities on time.”
ENDS
For more information or to arrange an interview, contact:
Liam Straughan
Clean Energy Council Media Officer
+61 409 470 683