The Victorian Government has scrapped plans to create a renewable energy zone that would encompass parts of Campaspe, Greater Shepparton, Benalla, and Greater Bendigo after locals rallied against it.
The Protect Dookie and GV Community group was launched in opposition of the Central North Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), saying there had been a lack of consultation with landowners and that the zone was not appropriate for prime agricultural land.
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The group’s spokesperson, Jodie Fleming, told the ABC, “We are producing food for not just Victoria but Australia. To put a renewable energy zone where we’re feeding our nation is ridiculous.”
The decision comes as Victoria faces a major change in its power system over the coming years, with coal-fired Yallourn Power Station scheduled to close in 2028, and more ageing coal generation to follow.
At the same time, Victoria’s growing population, expanding data centre sector and increasingly energy-hungry homes are driving up demand for electricity.
The Clean Energy Council (CEC) says the government’s decision to abandon the REZ creates further uncertainty over how the state will replace its ageing coal-fired power stations.
CEC CEO Jackie Trad said, “Victoria’s coal-fired power stations are ageing and they will shut down soon. Yallourn is due to close in 2028 and we need new power ready to replace it.
“So the obvious question from today’s decision is: where will that power come from? Victoria cannot afford uncertainty over its future power supply. Projects take years to plan, finance, approve and build, and investors need confidence about where Victoria is going.
“Victorian families and businesses need confidence the power will be there when they need it, and investors need the certainty to spend billions of dollars building it.
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“We need genuine community consultation and partnerships to ensure renewable energy projects are set up for success. Local insights need to be a foundational part of project planning, so we don’t end up with cancellations,” Trad said.
