Victorian Energy and Resources Minister Lily D’Ambrosio launched the draft Renewable Energy Zone Community Benefits Plan for consultation.
This plan aims to provide direct investment in projects that improve energy reliability and affordability for local communities.
VicGrid is coming to Shepparton on Wednesday, June 12 to get feedback on the draft plan, which will help shape the final plan to be released later this year.
“We’re making sure regional and rural Victorians and Traditional Owners get the best outcomes from the energy transition with special funds for community energy projects,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
An REZ Community Energy Fund will be created in each of the state’s six renewable energy zones — communities will be able to apply for funds for projects that improve power supply, lower energy bills and create energy jobs.
The funds for communities and Traditional Owners are in addition to landowner payments that were legislated in parliament. Landowners that host transmission infrastructure on their properties will receive $200,000 per kilometre of transmission, on top of existing compensation arrangements.
The plan aims to give Traditional Owners control over the form the benefits will take and ensure they deliver economic empowerment and support self-determination.
A community drop-in session will be held at Riverlinks Eastbank from 3pm on Wednesday, with a workshop from 6pm at the same venue.
For more information, visit engage.vic.gov.au/vtif-rez-community-benefits
• Alice O’Brien is a Media Communication and Design student at Monash University, and is currently completing an internship with The News.
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