The NSW Government has introduced a new Renewable Energy Planning Framework aimed at streamlining approvals and boosting regional economies through renewable energy initiatives. 

It comes alongside growing concerns about plans to fast-track assessments of state significant projects, including controversial mining operations, under proposed legislative amendments.

The Minns Government’s Renewable Energy Planning Framework includes updated guidelines for wind and solar energy developments, transmission routes, and benefit-sharing with local communities. 

It is part of the state’s Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap and aims to reduce emissions, create jobs, and stabilise electricity prices.

Planning Minister Paul Scully says the framework is designed to balance economic benefits with community expectations. 

Clear guidelines will “reduce barriers to investment and deliver lasting benefits to regional communities”, he said. 

It includes rules for setbacks to limit visual impacts, updated processes for assessing cumulative impacts, and over $400 million directed to community initiatives.

Parallel to the framework, the government is advocating amendments to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, giving the Planning Secretary discretionary power to separate assessments for off-site infrastructure of major projects. 

This move follows a court ruling invalidating the approval of the Bowdens Silver Mine near Mudgee due to unassessed transmission lines.

Planning Minister Scully argues the changes are essential to ensure legal certainty, and remove risks to about $50 billion in planned projects, including renewable energy and public infrastructure. 

Critics, however, claim the amendments could undermine environmental oversight. 

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