The Victorian government has announced that renewable energy projects will be eligible for an accelerated planning pathway under the Development Facilitation Program.
The Planning Institute of Australia (Victoria) supports renewable energy facilities in the right location.
PIA Victoria believes that the delivery of renewable energy projects needs to be ramped up to achieve the net zero targets already committed to by the State and Federal government.
In Victoria the government has committed to delivering 65% of our energy by renewables by 2030; and 95% renewables by 2035. We are current sitting at 40% renewables and need to accelerate the delivery of renewable energy projects.
President of Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) Victoria Patrick Fensham says that ‘renewable energy projects are a critical piece of the puzzle in reaching our net zero target.’
Mr Fensham says that ‘any fast-tracking process for renewables needs to be supported by clear policy and plans in the planning schemes, indicating where renewable energy facilities (and supporting infrastructure such as transmission lines) will be prioritised.’
‘Current planning reform processes, including the development of a Plan for Victoria provide a prime opportunity to integrate renewable energy infrastructure policy direction with other competing policy objectives, such as the protection of agricultural land.’
PIA (Victoria) released a position paper in 2021 calling for the government to ‘fill the gaps’ in policy direction for renewables.
PIA has set out ways the planning system can enable net zero outcomes in its publication .
About PIA
The Planning Institute Australia (PIA) is the peak body for Australia's planning profession. PIA advances best planning practice through advocacy, education, professional development, and policy advice. PIA champions climate change mitigation and adaptation, affordable housing and sustainable development, and effective infrastructure provision, among other issues, to improve the liveability of Australia's towns and cities.
PIA currently represents approximately 5500 members nationally and internationally and connects with more than 10000 planners annually. We are governed by a National Board of Directors and managed by a professional administration. We are a member-based organisation with our management complemented by volunteers, who support and contribute to our activities on various levels.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Patrick Fensham MPIA (Fellow)
President - Planning Institute of Australia (Victoria Division)
Phone: 0419 646 719
Email: vicpresident@planning.org.au
Carmel McCormack
Executive Officer - Planning Institute of Australia (Victoria Division)
Phone: 0402 249 832
Email: carmel.mccormack@planning.org.au