Regional communities and farmers are set to benefit following the launch of a review into the issues and opportunities arising from the growth of the agricultural and renewable energy sectors.
Minister for Energy Matt Kean said NSW Agriculture Commissioner Daryl Quinlivan will conduct the review and provide a final report later this year.
"The renewable energy and agricultural sectors are vital for the continued growth and prosperity of NSW. We need to make sure we capture as many of the opportunities they create for our regional communities as possible," Mr Kean said.
"The review will look at how the renewable energy sector helps to diversify farming income streams and create regional jobs, and consider any opportunities to improve existing frameworks, such as the coexistence of solar and wind with farming."
Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW Dugald Saunders said he commissioned the review to ensure landholders understand the benefits of the expansion of the renewables sector, while also addressing barriers or confusion when it comes to planning, construction and operation of renewable projects on their properties.
"We know that the renewable energy industry is presenting a number of opportunities for landholders, including increased self-sufficiency and additional income streams. However, as a government, we need to make sure we're doing all we can to facilitate this diversification of businesses," Mr Saunders said.
"This review will not only assess the issues and opportunities arising from the growth of renewable energy facilities on the farming sector, it will also address the benefits and challenges on housing supply, tourism, and workforce and labour issues in regional areas.
"Our big users of renewable energy – irrigators, dairy farmers, poultry producers and red meat manufacturers – need as much encouragement from governments as possible and I look forward to smashing barriers so they can to continue to thrive in this future-focused sector."
