RE-Alliance has welcomed the NSW Government’s timely response to the parliamentary inquiry into Renewable Energy Zones but called for greater transparency about how essential infrastructure and service challenges are being addressed.
RE-Alliance National Director Andrew Bray said:
“The parliamentary inquiry into Renewable Energy Zones highlighted key gaps around worker accommodation, roads, water, health services and training opportunities. Communities need reassurance that these needs are being addressed so that renewable energy development brings more opportunities than challenges.
“The government’s response largely points to existing arrangements and work underway. If those arrangements are delivering, it needs to explain how: what’s happening locally, who is responsible and what communities can expect next.
“People shouldn’t have to wait for a finished plan or a funding announcement to hear that their concerns are being worked on. Sharing progress, acknowledging unresolved issues and explaining the next steps would go a long way towards building trust.”
This month a delegation of regional farmers, business owners and community leaders, supported by RE-Alliance, went to NSW Parliament to discuss local priorities for renewable energy development. Delegate Monica Morona, a Hay farmer in the South West Renewable Energy Zone, said:
“Our councils in the South West REZ have been proactive in planning for what renewable energy could bring. We want lasting improvements in housing, health, childcare and education, and support for local businesses to build the skills and accreditation they need to win contracts.
“Our community has a clear plan and wants to be part of finding solutions.
“When we raise questions about how our towns will cope and benefit, we need government to respond and explain how those concerns are being addressed in real time and be able to be part of a feedback loop.
“That’s what builds confidence – knowing we’re being listened to and that government is working with us to get this right.”
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For media inquiries and interview requests please contact Monica Tan on 0425 243 750 or [email protected].
