Renee Wall

The lack of proper #fauna and #flora studies and inadequate #community #engagement has led to massive opposition against large-scale renewable projects (83% are against these projects in the Have YourSay survey: https://lnkd.in/gp_SCbzC). It should not come as a surprise because altering the #environment and #lifestyle of communities and #FirstNations peoples, and interfering with #nature inevitably triggers backlash. When projects of such magnitude are proposed without thorough consideration of their impact on local #ecosystems and without involving the affected communities in decision-making processes, it disrupts established ways of life. It raises valid concerns about #environmental degradation and loss of #cultural #heritage. This resistance reflects an instinct to protect the #environment and #traditions, especially when they feel their interests and voices are not adequately represented or respected in the planning and implementation of these projects. To address these challenges, The Community Engagement Review led by Andrew Dyer made recommendations including establishing independent rating schemes for #developers, implementing clearer project zoning, and prioritizing genuine community benefit sharing and communication programs, underscoring the crucial role of building trust and integrating community engagement efforts into project development. Coalition for Conservation Inc. Australian Wildlife Conservancy UN Biodiversity The Biodiversity and Climate Change Network (BCCN). United Nations Steven Nowakowski Animals Australia Bush Heritage Australia Landcare Australia American Conservation Coalition Nature Conservation Council NSW Ben Goldsmith

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ICYMI: Listen to ICIN Director Sarah Parriman with Matt Brann on Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)'s NT Country Hour talking about our #BlueCarbon report. "Blue carbon projects are very similar to other carbon projects, like savanna burning, except they occur on the coast and in coastal waters," said Ms Parriman. "The report reveals Indigenous Peoples hold legal or consent rights to undertake carbon projects along 66% of Australia’s coastline. Yet despite this there are minimal opportunities to participate in the blue #carbonmarket due to a lack of applicable methods," added Ms Parriman. https://lnkd.in/gxngQK8c REPORT: https://lnkd.in/gfY5F5rr PRESS RELEASE: https://lnkd.in/gjhyv3fH #mangroves #oceanconservation #climatechange #netzero #netnegative #indigenousknowledge #climatejustice #saveoceans #sustainability #conservation #savewater #earthdayeveryday #SDGs #carbonfarming #carbonmarkets #carboncredits #naturebasedsolutions #emissionsreduction #climateaction #climatechange #climatefinance #climatepolicy

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The Clean Energy Regulator has opened a consultation on the new unit and certificate registry and proposed a possible carbon exchange trading model. Efficient, deep and transparent carbon markets play an important role in supporting Australia to meet its legislated climate targets of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions to 43% below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050. To support the future expansion of Australia’s vibrant carbon markets as the result of the reformed Safeguard Mechanism and implementation of new schemes such as the Guarantee of Origin Scheme, the Clean Energy Regulator is seeking feedback from carbon market participants on: its needs and priorities for the establishment of new market infrastructure, including a modern registry, that allows market participants multiple pathways to access carbon markets; and the feasibility and views on a proposed Australian Carbon Credit Unit exchange trading model. Your feedback will help inform the development of key carbon market systems and processes that will facilitate future carbon market growth and efficiency. Read more on our website, including how to have your say and to register your interest for targeted virtual consultation sessions 👉 https://bit.ly/4h2PwvG

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Today I had the opportunity to speak at a conference in Launceston, which is focused on renewable energy and other development opportunities in Bell Bay, Northern Tasmania. It’s an exciting time for renewable energy development in our region, but with great opportunity comes the responsibility to do things right. Genuine community engagement isn’t just a box to tick—it’s the foundation for sustainable, meaningful, and trusted partnerships between developers and the communities they operate in. I spoke about the 3P Advisory approach where we believe that successful projects are built on understanding and aligning with the values, aspirations, and concerns of local people. I shared our 5-stage engagement approach, which is designed to foster collaboration and trust:
1) Context and Connection – Understanding the unique characteristics of each community.
2) Timing and Sequencing – Engaging at the right time and in the right way for maximum impact.
3) Framing and Narrative – Using language that is jargon free, open and invites dialogue and respects the way of life of local people. 4) Project Flexibility – Adapting to feedback and being open to compromise.
5) Trust and Shared Purpose – Building relationships that last beyond the project's lifespan. This framework isn’t just about achieving project goals; it’s about creating long-term value for everyone involved. Renewable energy projects have the potential to contribute to shaping the future of Northern Tasmania, and contribute to Tasmanian, national and global sustainable development goals. But they must be developed with the community at the heart of the process. Let’s prioritise people, place, and purpose (3P!) as we navigate this critical energy transition. @Informa BBAMZ

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The Essential Services Commission annual Victorian Energy Market Report, published last week, includes a focus on how energy retailers respond to payment difficulties. The report shows fewer customers being disconnected—a very good thing—but it also shows more people are experiencing financial stress: 🔎 Eight percent of electricity and gas customers missed a bill payment each month in 2023–24. This was an increase of 18,000 electricity and 16,000 gas customers compared to 2022–23. 🔎 Around five percent of electricity and gas customers owed their retailer at least $300 each month in 2023–24. This was an increase of around 20,000 electricity and 14,000 gas customers compared to 2022–23, with more than half not receiving payment difficulty assistance from their retailer. 🔎 While more customers are receiving assistance such as payment plans, almost half exit payment plans due to non-compliance, with great inconsistency across retailers. This data raises questions about the suitability and effectiveness of those payment plans offered by retailers. Energy retailers must provide assistance to residential customers to help them avoid getting into arrears and assist those who are in arrears. It is important that retailers communicate effectively with customers experiencing difficulty paying their energy bills rather than placing too much reliance on disconnection warning notices. The latest data is all on our Energy Market Dashboard: https://lnkd.in/gBDutUxu Victorian Energy Market Report: https://lnkd.in/g3CNvKN3 News Update: https://lnkd.in/gGM8DTAc Also covered by today's The Australian newspaper: https://lnkd.in/gP5iBgfz

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Am not surprised to see Melbourne streaks ahead of Auckland on this front. Despite Melbourne’s reasonably complex local & State government structure. Have sat in a couple of Melbourne public lectures post the bush fires 2019/2020. Flew home just in time for the 1st Covid lockdown. The 300-400 community/public members in each lecture were sitting forward & engaging directly with the various govt orgs & other agencies as the conversation dived into various aspects of readying to live through climate change, and around what we can do to lessening the peak & the impacts of it. Feel that we are starting to lift our awareness of what needs to be done, maybe off the back to a few more climate related weather events. If we all lean into uptaking the transition options available and putting the work in to make them available to all then we should make some gains (whatever any govt (local or central) is doing.

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📣 EESN Seed Grant Winners Announced 📣    We are thrilled to announce the WINNERS of the #NSW Government's Electrification & Energy Systems Network Seed Grant Scheme! ⚡️ Announced today by the Hon. Penny Sharpe, Minister for NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water...   These groundbreaking projects, awarded $2.9 million in total, are all leading with an innovative and collaborative approach to #electrification and #decarbonisation.    Each project addresses critical challenges and paves the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future 🌱 Read the Minister's release below! Learn more about each winning project: https://lnkd.in/gswn4wNE   🏆 Congratulations to our awardees:    ⚡ University of Wollongong: Identifying and Removing Barriers for Electricity  System Planning    ⚡ UNSW: Developing device electrification functionality for the APVI's SunSPOT solar and battery calculator    ⚡ University of Technology Sydney: Cost-effective wireless energy harvesting from high voltage transmission lines    ⚡ Macquarie University: Powering E-Shuttles with Optimised Routes and Magnetised Cement Charging    ⚡ University of Sydney: Recycling of Lithium from Discarded Battery Materials    ⚡ Macquarie University: AI-driven energy management platform    ⚡ UNSW: Open Platform for Real-time Renewable Energy Bidding and Trading    These projects exemplify innovation and collaboration between academia and industry, driving us closer to our Net Zero targets and a greener future. 🌱    Stay tuned for updates on these exciting initiatives and their impact on our energy landscape.      ⚡About EESN⚡  As part of the NSW Decarbonisation Innovation Hub, the Electrification and Energy Systems Network (EESN) is dedicated to advancing electrification technologies and solutions, enhancing energy efficiency, and supporting the NSW transition to sustainable energy systems across industry, government and community.   This initiative is generously funded by the NSW Environmental Trust and our Network Partners; University of Newcastle, UNSW, University of Wollongong, University of Technology Sydney and the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. #Innovation #Sustainability #CleanEnergy #OpenInnovation

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Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise GHD is at the TSBE industry event in Dalby this week. Key highlights from the Renewables Panel discussion led by John Sheldon who opened with the topic of social licence and discussing renewables with the panel participents from OEM, Developer and DNSP perspective respectfully: Richard Petterson ( Tindo Solar ) a GW solar factory is a target and would provide 250 jobs for the region, risk for projects being backed is a concern, global competition for equipment is real, investing in Australia’s capability is a desire, $250-$300million a year, the region in general has been proactive in creating the capital for renewable energy to make it desirable for OEM’s to come here. David Smith (Cubico Sustainable Investments ) Wind, Solar and CSP developer globally. Supply chain for renewables is very important, Australia projects are competing against Europe and US markets. Solar economics in utilities in Queensland are not as lucrative as Wind right now. Focus on the 35 years that the project is running and the supply chain is a focus because there are few OEM’s in the wind turbine space and mostly manufacturered offshore, but there are other local investment through council, labour, land lease and sourcing local services or construction jobs. Primarily local jobs for BOP, roads (80km’s), gravel that needs to be sourced, earthworks. Investment in Western Downs. Tower manufacturing locally would’ve been ideal but there is risk involved. Many projects are under development in the region. A pipeline if 10-15 year of projects will need people and there are real opportunities. Lessons learnt from the coal/gas industry during social licence are taken into account, the renewables industry are focussed on the journey of making sure that social licence is done correctly and that there is a code of conduct for developers. There is a lot of innitiatives in progress. Glenn Springall (Energex) Globally Queensland is one of the leading rooftop solar capacity at 6GW and expect in the next years to come it will double to 12GW. Renewable Energy allows customers to take part in their own electrification of their home. This includes electrical vehicles. Small businesses are participating and taking advantage of the roof space. As we move to a greater penetration the centralised projects play a key role, but the decentralised projects all contribute to a greater and diverse electrification. #labour #construction #renewables #queensland #oem #solar #developers #energex #tindosolar #cubico #ghd #power #utilities #energy #community #TBSE ✨🌱 we would love to hear from you and how we can work with your organisation to reach your goals in the Renewable Energy & Power Generation Industry Daniel Todd Chetan Chauhan Steve Yeardley ————————————————————- GHD are providing clients with integrated solutions through engineering, environmental, design and construction expertise helping communities with resilience and sustainability.

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The Albanese government is being hailed for delivering the biggest spend on clean energy in Australia’s history, in a federal budget that climate and renewable energy leaders say marks a significant turning point for an economy long shackled to the fortunes of coal and gas. Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers on Tuesday evening announced $21 billion of new funding initiatives under the Future Made in Australia Act strategic framework as part of the 2024-2025 Federal Budget, including nearly a $14 billion boost to the critical minerals and green hydrogen sectors, through production tax credits. The Australian Renewable Energy Agency also got a $5.1 billion boost, including $1.5 billion to support solar and battery manufacturing and $1.7 billion for an innovation fund for industries such as green metals and low-carbon liquid fuels. “The budget makes an important and overdue opening bid to claim our place as one of the world’s clean energy market leaders. “This is a Budget that puts renewable energy at the centre of our economic future,” says Clean Energy Council CEO Kane Thornton. #Government #BudgetWins #RenewableFuture #CleanEnergy https://lnkd.in/e3KXAn2u

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Consumer electricity resilience makes sure that if people lose electricity, they can quickly respond and recover 💪 But who is responsible for building this resilience? And how can this be done in a way that focuses on consumer outcomes and remains equitable? 🤔 Join our webinar on 21 November @ 1:30 PM AEDT to hear from Jill Cainey (Erne Energy), who will provide insights from her new report on consumer electricity resilience, followed by a discussion with members of the report's Advisory Group. 🗓️ Register here: https://loom.ly/Otot6WY

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our initial thoughts for "Team Australia" on the aftermath post COP29, we'll have a special edition of our international updates and a COP29 Symposium on 5 December “COP29 was imperfect but remarkably, given the global political context, managed achievements including to lay out goals for decarbonisation and resilience investments in developing nations. Notably, after almost 10 years of negotiations, parties delivered Article 6 resolution, agreeing mechanisms for international cooperation through country to country carbon credit trading, new UN backed international carbon market and non-market initiatives,“ https://lnkd.in/gHDDSb8Q

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As the Energex and Ergon Energy Network Member of the Queensland Government State Disaster Cordinstion Committee it’s essential we are prepared for severe thunderstorms and bushfires to floods and tropical cyclones. Today the Committee received the seasonal outlook from the Bureau of Meteorology. Every year our team builds on the valuable lessons from the three big events last year (TC Jasper, SEQ Xmas Storms, and TC Kirrily), we have strengthened our processes, refined our messaging and coordinated closely with industry partners (particularly Powerlink Queensland, Telstra, Optus and nbn® Australia), emergency services, government agencies, and local communities in the ‘off-season’. This includes: - Proactive engagement with stakeholders before, during, and after severe weather events - Enhanced communication protocols for faster response and real-time updates - Dedicated channels to provide critical information to customers in affected areas - Safety campaigns to raise awareness about staying safe during outages and natural disasters Great crisis communications builds trust. Providing our customers accurate and timely impact information, safety messaging, expected restoration timeframes, and insights to our response activities ensures they have what they need to stay safe and informed. Coupled with our strong relationships with emergency services, response agencies, and local communities; effective stakeholder engagement is vital for collaboration and doing our part to get Queensland communities back on their feet as quickly as possible. We’re confident these preparations will ensure a reliable and resilient electricity network that can support our communities through the most challenging events - be it severe weather, energy system emergencies, cyber attacks. Anthony Hamill Deborah Devincenzo Tash McCarty

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This proposed large-scale development on the Nullarbor has the potential to have severe ecological consequences for the caves it overlaps and the systems it impacts. In the proposed development footprint are caves that are home to endemic fauna (species only known from a single cave). The development needs to go through the highest level of assessment and consultation, in a public and transparent way. If you can, please submit comments to the EPA (details below) #conservation #biodiversity #ozinverts

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🌍 A new report by Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) and Global Energy Monitor reveals that Indonesia's captive coal power plant capacity is on track to reach 26.24 GW by 2026, surpassing Australia’s 22.9 GW. This sharp rise, driven by energy-intensive industries like nickel smelting, metals, and cement, poses serious questions about Indonesia's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.🌍 Key highlights from the report: 🔹 Captive Power Growth: From 5.7 GW in 2019 to 15.2 GW in 2024, with 17.1 GW expected by year-end and 11.04 GW in the pipeline. 🔹 Regional Impact: Central Sulawesi and North Maluku lead the surge in capacity, primarily fueled by the nickel industry. 🔹 Renewable Energy Potential: By 2025, Indonesia’s solar power is projected to be more cost-effective than coal, with even greater savings by 2035. 🚨 Environmental groups and industry experts warn that continued reliance on coal risks undermining Indonesia's decarbonisation goals and global competitiveness. They emphasise the urgent need for a clear roadmap to retire captive power plants and prioritise renewables. 💡 With abundant renewable energy resources and global support through initiatives like JETP, Indonesia has a unique opportunity to lead industrial decarbonisation in Southeast Asia. Now is the time to shift focus toward sustainable, competitive, and clean energy solutions. 🌱 https://lnkd.in/gPEtg6qt #EnergyTransition #ClimateAction #Decarbonization #Indonesia #Sustainability #CleanEnergy

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https://ab.co/4cowv4t This ABC Online article examines VicGrid's announcement regarding a new transmission line in eastern Victoria designed to connect offshore wind farms to the power grid, focusing on its repercussions for local landholders and the broader community's reaction. The review encapsulates VicGrid's strategy and stakeholders' diverse responses, detailing the project's scope, the decision-making rationale for selecting above-ground versus underground transmission routes, and the financial factors influencing these choices. Insights from VicGrid representatives and landholders, particularly farmers, add depth to the narrative, illustrating the balance between economic efficiency and community interests. Nonetheless, the article does not sufficiently explore the environmental impacts of above-ground transmission lines compared to underground options or the specific technical challenges each presents, which would have provided a more nuanced understanding of VicGrid's decisions. So what does it mean for Landcare and rural and regional communities? Here are my thoughts: Land Use and Property Values: The construction of overhead lines could significantly impact land use and potentially reduce property values, raising concerns about landscape alterations and restrictions near the transmission infrastructure. Environmental and Visual Impact: The article lacks detailed exploration of the potential effects of above-ground lines on local wildlife and ecosystems. Moreover, the visual intrusion of these structures in rural and scenic areas raises concerns about their impact on community well-being and tourism. Economic Considerations: While noting the cost-effectiveness of above-ground lines over underground options, the article does not thoroughly examine the broader economic effects on the impacted communities and landowners, who face immediate and enduring consequences. Community Engagement: The article acknowledges community involvement in the decision-making process but suggests a gap between stakeholder preferences and the final decisions, highlighting the need for improved dialogue and participation in future infrastructure planning. Future Planning: Mention of potential additional infrastructure needs underscores the importance of this project setting a precedent for integrating future developments in a way that is sensitive and inclusive of community concerns.

https://ab.co/4cowv4t This ABC Online article examines VicGrid's announcement regarding a new transmission line in eastern Victoria designed to connect offshore wind farms to the power grid, focusing on its repercussions for local landholders and the broader community's reaction. The review encapsulates VicGrid's strategy and stakeholders' diverse responses, detailing the project's scope, the decision-making rationale for selecting above-ground versus underground transmission routes, and the financial factors influencing these choices. Insights from VicGrid representatives and landholders, particularly farmers, add depth to the narrative, illustrating the balance between economic efficiency and community interests. Nonetheless, the article does not sufficiently explore the environmental impacts of above-ground transmission lines compared to underground options or the specific technical challenges each presents, which would have provided a more nuanced understanding of VicGrid's decisions. So what does it mean for Landcare and rural and regional communities? Here are my thoughts: Land Use and Property Values: The construction of overhead lines could significantly impact land use and potentially reduce property values, raising concerns about landscape alterations and restrictions near the transmission infrastructure. Environmental and Visual Impact: The article lacks detailed exploration of the potential effects of above-ground lines on local wildlife and ecosystems. Moreover, the visual intrusion of these structures in rural and scenic areas raises concerns about their impact on community well-being and tourism. Economic Considerations: While noting the cost-effectiveness of above-ground lines over underground options, the article does not thoroughly examine the broader economic effects on the impacted communities and landowners, who face immediate and enduring consequences. Community Engagement: The article acknowledges community involvement in the decision-making process but suggests a gap between stakeholder preferences and the final decisions, highlighting the need for improved dialogue and participation in future infrastructure planning. Future Planning: Mention of potential additional infrastructure needs underscores the importance of this project setting a precedent for integrating future developments in a way that is sensitive and inclusive of community concerns.

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https://ab.co/4cowv4t This ABC Online article examines VicGrid's announcement regarding a new transmission line in eastern Victoria designed to connect offshore wind farms to the power grid, focusing on its repercussions for local landholders and the broader community's reaction. The review encapsulates VicGrid's strategy and stakeholders' diverse responses, detailing the project's scope, the decision-making rationale for selecting above-ground versus underground transmission routes, and the financial factors influencing these choices. Insights from VicGrid representatives and landholders, particularly farmers, add depth to the narrative, illustrating the balance between economic efficiency and community interests. Nonetheless, the article does not sufficiently explore the environmental impacts of above-ground transmission lines compared to underground options or the specific technical challenges each presents, which would have provided a more nuanced understanding of VicGrid's decisions. So what does it mean for Landcare and rural and regional communities? Here are my thoughts: Land Use and Property Values: The construction of overhead lines could significantly impact land use and potentially reduce property values, raising concerns about landscape alterations and restrictions near the transmission infrastructure. Environmental and Visual Impact: The article lacks detailed exploration of the potential effects of above-ground lines on local wildlife and ecosystems. Moreover, the visual intrusion of these structures in rural and scenic areas raises concerns about their impact on community well-being and tourism. Economic Considerations: While noting the cost-effectiveness of above-ground lines over underground options, the article does not thoroughly examine the broader economic effects on the impacted communities and landowners, who face immediate and enduring consequences. Community Engagement: The article acknowledges community involvement in the decision-making process but suggests a gap between stakeholder preferences and the final decisions, highlighting the need for improved dialogue and participation in future infrastructure planning. Future Planning: Mention of potential additional infrastructure needs underscores the importance of this project setting a precedent for integrating future developments in a way that is sensitive and inclusive of community concerns.

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Mackay Sugar leads the way in employing circular economy principles. Their 'Nothing is Wasted' approach transforms by-products like bagasse and molasses into renewable energy and valuable biofuels, supporting not only self-sufficiency but also contributing power back to the national grid. Through initiatives like these, Mackay Sugar not only enhances their operational efficiency but also paves the way for a sustainable future. AgriBusiness Connect’s Circular Economy Program, in partnership with Queensland Government, aims to fund more innovative start-ups looking to create circular economies. Learn more via the link below: https://lnkd.in/gA_hYvCk #CircularEconomyProgram #CircularEconomy #AgriBusinessConnect End Food Waste Australia

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