This submission is to the Tasmanian Government’s Renewables, Climate and Future Industries Tasmania (ReCFIT) in regard to the recently released Draft Guidelines for Community Engagement, Benefit Sharing and Local Procurement (referred to as the Draft Guidelines).
We welcome the Draft Guidelines, as they set a new benchmark for leading practice.
They form part of the Tasmanian Renewable Energy Coordination Framework, which is based on four key pillars: certainty around electricity, protection of environment, maximizing community benefits and maximizing economic benefits.
We previously recommended a benefit guide for Tasmania, so it is welcome to see it at this stage. It’s also great to see that the Draft Guidelines have such a strong focus on how regional communities can get involved. Communities can see long term careers and a lasting positive impact on their regions from renewable projects but the key is early participation to make your views known.