Farmers bring together renewable voices
NSW Farmers is hosting a series of renewable energy forums that will bring together landholders and government bodies to discuss the state’s Renewable Energy Zones. With the federal government setting a 43 per cent emissions reduction target for 2030, there is increased pressure to build renewable energy installations. While some proponents see regional and rural land as a cheap alternative to urban or offshore developments, farmers and community groups are concerned about the long-term impact on agricultural productivity. NSW Farmers Energy Transition Working Group chair Reg Kidd said it was a matter of making sure future developments such as renewables did not come at the expense of agricultural productivity. “There is a finite amount of productive agricultural land in NSW, so we need to make sure it used wisely,” Mr Kidd said. “It’s important that people build the right thing in the right place, and in the right way – whether that’s urban expansion, renewable energy generation or even the power transmission lines those renewables require. “We know there’s an interest in building renewables on ag land, both from farmers looking to diversify and from developers, so what we want to facilitate is an open line of communication there so agricultural productivity, economic opportunity and social benefit are all balanced.” The Renewable Energy Zone Forums will feature speakers from the Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo) and the Department of Planning and Environment and will cover the planning and assessment process for renewables developments, protections for agricultural land and how to find information and provide input. “This is one of the key emerging issues for regional communities and we want to ensure the energy transition is done well,” Mr Kidd said. “Ultimately we need to work out how renewable energy projects fit in with agricultural production – preferably built on less productive land – so future electricity supply does not come at the expense of food and fibre. “It’s critical any renewable development is done with farmers, not simply imposed upon them.” This event is open to the public, not just members of NSW Farmers, but as it will be focused on landholder issues we do ask that only those with agricultural interests register and attend. Go to https://form.jotform.com/holleyt/energy-co-forums-rsvp-form to RSVP or call NSW Farmers Regional Service Manager Mark Bulley on 0429 330 348 for more information. Wednesday, August 2412.30pmWalcha Bowling & Recreation Club14 Croudace Street, Walcha5.30pmUralla Neighbourhood Centre27 Salisbury Street, Uralla Tuesday, August 3012.30pmGlen Innes & District Services Club120 Grey Street, Glen Innes5.30pmArmidale Ex Services Club137 Dumaresq St, Armidale
Date: Wednesday, August 17, 2022
Media Contact: Steve Mudd | 0429 011 690 | mudds@nswfarmers.org.au