Renewable Energy Zones - Tasmania
What:
The state government is undertaking feasibility and mapping for potential renewable energy zones around Tasmania. In this early consultation phase, the government seeks feedback on community expectations, environment and heritage.
Read on below.
Where:
The state government is currently consulting on the North West Renewable Energy Zone.
In addition there are potential renewable energy zones in the central highlands and north east Tasmania that are yet to be formally considered.
When:
The office of Renewables, Climate and Future Industries Tasmania (RECFIT) has a range of consultation options open for the North West Renewable Energy Zone including: mapping important places, stakeholder reference groups and community information sessions.
What is a Renewable Energy Zone?
A renewable energy zone (REZ) helps to accelerate the transition to clean energy and mitigate global heating, while minimising impacts to people and nature. It is a strategic planning exercise that enables clean energy development and safeguards key community, agricultural, environmental, and heritage values.
When done well, these zones are carefully planned and managed to ensure that renewable energy projects are situated in locations that are efficient and effective, such as areas with abundant solar or wind resources and with good access to existing transmission corridors.
By coordinating renewable energy development within specific zones, the potential for over-development or ad-hoc development is reduced.
The zones may provide incentives for developers, facilitating a more efficient and coordinated approach to planning, environmental studies and assessment.
The zones should protect and enhance their constituent communities, agricultural lands, natural, and cultural heritage, by taking a balanced approach to development, practicing deep community engagement and incorporating the views of stakeholders.
Carbon Zero Initiative works with Tasmanians to highlight the benefits and address legitimate concerns about the cost, speed and scale of the clean energy revolution.
By working with leaders across Tasmania, we plan to bring everyone along on the journey, and will pave the way for a fast, fair and sustainable clean energy future.