Consultation on Tasmania’s proposed first Renewable Energy Zone in the state’s north-west has begun, with Minister for Energy and Renewables Nick Duigan saying it would open the door to new renewable generation projects as well as create jobs and economic benefits for regional communities.
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Renewable Energy Zones are areas with high-quality renewable resources such as wind and solar.
“Launching the consultation is the next step in delivering Tasmania’s first Renewable Energy Zone, and it is a key part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future,” Minister Duigan said.
“Tasmania’s population is growing, and so too are our energy needs that’s why we deliver a Renewable Energy Zona as part of our Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future. This will ensure we can meet demand, while also bringing to the State new jobs and economic opportunities.
“Renewable Energy Zones will coordinate and foster renewable generation development in the most suitable areas of Tasmania and minimise supporting transmission infrastructure.”
As part of the creation of the REZ, the Tasmanian Government will work with TasNetworks to progress new transmission infrastructure between Burnie and Hampshire Hills.
Minister Duigan said, “The North West has world-class wind resources along with the space and infrastructure for renewable energy projects, such as wind and solar farms.
“Our government will underwrite transmission infrastructure between Burnie and Hampshire to support new and existing renewable energy generation projects in the region.”
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Consultation on the proposed REZ boundary and an associated community benefits scheme will occur over the next six weeks, with a market offering for proponents soon to follow.
