Written by Squadron Energy |
We have a big task ahead of us as an industry.
With Labor’s re-election and their full support for renewable energy, now is the time to get on with the job of building the power system of the future by rolling out renewables and transitioning away from coal.
We no longer have a political debate stalling the important work that needs to be done to reach Australia’s targets for the clean energy transition.
We already have positive momentum, both on delivery as an industry and with at least a further three years of stable policy settings.
We recognise there is no guarantee of community support. We must continue to deliver genuine and meaningful investment, community benefits, job opportunities and economic initiatives while communicating transparently and authentically to those communities about the benefits this renewables transition will bring.
At Squadron, we partner early, solve problems and leave regions stronger.
Spicers Creek Wind Farm alone will contribute more than $2 million each year to the local Central West community in NSW. Funding will support essential community programs identified by residents and the local Government, such as delivering an advanced wastewater treatment facility to provide local water security and developing temporary accommodation for workers on renewable energy projects close to Dubbo.
The Dyer Review is clear about the renewable energy sector needing to show stronger leadership in building trust within the community, with transparent communication and genuine engagement.
Trust is critical here.
Squadron Energy supports the Federal Developer Ratings Scheme and the state-led work on mandatory codes, such as in Queensland.
Australia's new energy infrastructure commissioner Tony Maher has said, “we've got to get the balance right...we have to have a level of respect and transparency and empathy. We can't be charging ahead with goals and agendas and not understanding how those goals and agendas are going to impact on the community. That's not how to develop mutually beneficial relationships and arrangements.”
One way we are addressing this is by working as an industry on a transformative partnership agreement between regional Australia and the energy sector, created to ensure the clean energy transition delivers tangible, long-term benefits to Australian communities. This partnership will aim to provide a clear roadmap for collaboration, aligning shared values and goals across energy companies and empowering regional communities to benefit from a renewable energy future.
