Region solar farms decision still in limbo

The Victorian Government was in Numurkah yesterday spruiking the new solar farm. However, it wouldn’t provide any significant update on three proposed solar farms in the Shepparton area. 

Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said: ‘‘ Victoria (is) leading the way approving . . . the construction and build’’ of renewable energy projects, but passed the buck back to Planning Minister Richard Wynne to make the final decision. 

The government has consistently said it would not decide on the proposed solar farms in Lemnos, Tallygaroopna and Tatura East until guidelines were released by an independent panel. 

Lily D'Ambrosio.

The guidelines will assist Mr Wynne’s decision if the solar farms should be built at the proposed locations. 

It’s understood those guidelines would be released on June 30. Last week a government spokesperson told the News the guidelines were in the ‘‘ process of being finalised’’. 

Yesterday the News asked Ms D’Ambrosio why the guidelines had not been released. 

‘‘ I think it’s important we get it right,’’ she said. 

‘‘ The guidelines that are under consideration by the Planning Minister will be in place for a number of years and provide the necessary road map for industry to understand where it can invest, the local conditions it needs to take into account, and consultation with local council and community. 

‘‘ We have to get this right and I know the Planning Minister will make his decision available at the right time when he’s considered all of the issues put forward to him.’’ 

Concerns have been raised in the past by State Member for Shepparton Suzanna Sheed about building the solar farms on prime agricultural land. 

Ms D’Ambrosio said the decision rested with Mr Wynne whether to approve the proposed farms. 

‘‘ We will certainly hear from the minister for planning when he’s fully considered all of the issues.’’ 

Story by James Bennett from The Shepparton News - “Region solar farms decision still in limbo”.