As regional communities again find themselves at the centre of debates over Australia's net-zero future, a new handbook launched today will help them play a more active role in shaping how renewable energy projects are developed in their region.
The handbook includes case studies and tools that build on best practice from other communities at the forefront of the energy shift - so others don't have to start from scratch, but can learn from what's already working across the country.
"As renewable energy projects roll out, many regional communities are experiencing significant change" said Marie Lakey, co-author and Project Manager at Community Power Agency.
"Big changes require big support - but there's been a lack of resources written for communities themselves. This handbook aims to change that."
Across the country, there's growing attention on how renewable energy developers engage with communities. But genuine collaboration is a two-way process, and communities also have a vital role to play.
Heidi McElnea, co-author of the Handbook and resident in the New England Renewable Energy Zone says,
"It's essential that proponents engage with communities.
"But engagement is most effective when communities are also active participants. When we're involved and working together, we can shape renewable energy development in ways that deliver real, lasting benefits for our region.
"This is not a time to stand on the sidelines," she said. "We hope the Handbook will help give communities the confidence they need to negotiate genuine outcomes."
Drawing on years of on-the-ground work with regional communities, including those in Renewable Energy Zones, the Handbook provides a clear and constructive approach for communities to collaborate, set shared goals, and take action on local priorities such as housing, biodiversity, skills and jobs.
