Council allocates additional funds to respond to renewables influx

Northern Grampians Shire Council has made a significant decision to allocate additional resources towards responding to an influx of renewable energy proposals in the municipality.  

At last week’s council meeting, councillors voted to allocate $300,000 from the organisation’s Development Reserve to fund a role dedicated to responding to the needs of statutory authorities and stakeholders. The role is designed to help strike a balance between taking advantage of potential opportunities and protecting the community. 

Council chief executive Brent McAlister said with several renewable energy developments and transmission line proposals on the horizon, it was crucial the council was equipped to handle the projects’ complexities. 

"We are currently witnessing 10 transmission or renewable projects in various stages, with only five approved so far,” he said. 

“This marks just the beginning of a journey and it's imperative we stay ahead to influence, advocate and ensure our community's interests are protected." 

Mr McAlister said the council would advocate strongly for community impacts to be clearly identified and mitigated, ensuring the benefits aligned with the community's needs. 

"The community's expectation is that the council will take an active role in these developments,” he said.  

“We are committed to meeting these expectations by ensuring we are fully resourced to manage all aspects, from advocacy and compliance to communication and co-ordination. 

"We will act as the central point of contact, ensuring that all stakeholders – including the community, state government and industry players – are well-informed and engaged throughout the process." 

Mr McAlister said the council was committed to engaging early and meaningfully with both industry and government about projects within the shire. 

"As a vital link between our community, renewable energy proponents and government, Northern Grampians Shire Council is committed to protecting our agricultural industry and unique natural values, while also setting clear expectations for industry and government to engage with our community early, with clarity and respect," he said. 

"Our role is not just limited to the planning and development stages. As the responsible authority, we will be involved throughout the construction and operational phases, ensuring compliance, managing complaints and enforcing permits." 

The $300,000 from the Development Reserve is a one-off, two-year allocation designed to help address these challenges effectively, without placing further burden on ratepayers. 

"Any unspent money at the end of this period will be transferred back to the Development Reserve, ensuring responsible fiscal management,” Mr McAlister said.  

“Moreover, should project proponents contribute funds for assessing proposals, all probity aspects will be strictly adhered to, maintaining transparency and accountability. 

"It’s important to emphasise that this strategic allocation of resources is designed to minimise the long-term impact on ratepayers while enabling the council to effectively manage and advocate for the community during these complex developments. 

"Northern Grampians Shire Council will continue to advocate strongly, ensuring that the benefits of these projects are captured and shared, while any potential impacts are carefully mitigated – all while safeguarding the financial interests of our ratepayers.”