Consultation on Tasmania's proposed first Renewable Energy Zone in the State's North West has commenced.
Minister for Energy and Renewables, Nick Duigan, said Tasmania's North West would host the State's first Renewable Energy Zone, opening the door to new renewable generation projects and creating jobs and economic benefits for regional communities.
"Launching the consultation is the next step in delivering Tasmania's first Renewable Energy Zone, and it is a key part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future," Minister Duigan said.
"The location of the proposed REZ south of Burnie is the result of 18 months of analysis and engagement with the North West community."
"Tasmania's population is growing, and so too are our energy needs that's why we deliver a Renewable Energy Zona as part of our Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future. This will ensure we can meet demand, while also bringing to the State new jobs and economic opportunities."
"Renewable Energy Zones will coordinate and foster renewable generation development in the most suitable areas of Tasmania and minimise supporting transmission infrastructure.
"They can also attract industrial energy users to our state, creating more jobs for Tasmanians."
Renewable Energy Zones are areas with high quality renewable resources such as wind and solar, and enable more efficient coordination of investment and development, while considering important environmental, heritage and social values.
As part of the creation of the REZ, the Tasmanian Government will work with TasNetworks to progress new transmission infrastructure between Burnie and Hampshire Hills.
Minister Duigan said the North West was selected as the first renewable energy zone after extensive planning and consultation with communities and industry.
"The North West has world-class wind resources along with the space and infrastructure for renewable energy projects, such as wind and solar farms," Minister Duigan said.
"Our Government will underwrite transmission infrastructure between Burnie and Hampshire to support new and existing renewable energy generation projects in the region."
The creation of a REZ can support hydrogen exports and our target to achieve the 200 per cent Tasmanian Renewable Energy Target.
Consultation on the proposed REZ boundary and an associated community benefits scheme will occur over the next six weeks, with a market offering for proponents soon to follow.
To stay up to date on the renewable energy zone, and to partake in information sessions, please visit www.renewableenergyzones.tas.gov.au.
