The proposed renewable energy zone is highlighted in yellow.
A renewable energy zone proposed to cover parts of northern Victoria sends developers a “strong signal” that projects should be developed there.
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VicGrid has released the draft for the Victorian Transmission Plan, which outlines a renewable energy zone identified in the area between Shepparton, Bendigo and Echuca.
The draft, which was released on Friday, May 16, shows towns like Rochester, Rushworth, Tatura and Kyabram sitting just outside the zone.
Inside the draft area includes Colbinabbin, Elmore, Corop and Girgarre.
Renewable energy zones (or REZs) are strategic areas chosen for optimal wind and solar conditions, with battery storage capabilities. They cover about seven per cent of Victoria.
Draft REZs are described as the areas of the state with “abundant renewable energy resources” such as wind and sun, as well as having the appropriate transmission infrastructure, such as high-voltage power lines and sub-stations.
A spokesperson for VicGrid told Country News the REZs would send the energy industry a “strong signal” about where renewable energy development should be focused and built.
“Developers with projects inside them will have priority use of the transmission network and will have that capacity protected,” they said.
“VicGrid will engage with existing projects outside the draft zones as part of the consultation process and put in place transitional arrangements for projects that are well advanced in their development.”
Proposed renewable energy zones across Victoria.
Colbinabbin Renewable Action Group committee member John Davies said he thought the draft proposal was indicative of the Cooba Solar Farm, proposed by Venn Energy, being pushed through.
Mr Davies has been advocating against the 606ha large solar farm and battery energy storage system being built next door to his Colbinabbin property.
The main argument by objectors is the solar farm would be built on “prime agricultural land” in the Heathcote wine region.
“They refer to state planning documents, and they refer to the agriculture and the land being prime agricultural land, and then (the government) go and draw the boundaries ignoring state planning guidelines,” he said.
“It’s all very convenient for (Venn Energy).”
As it is just a draft, the identified areas will be investigated further by VicGrid to learn more about the land use and environment to limit the impact of the energy infrastructure.
The final Victorian Transmission Plan is set to be finalised in late 2025.
The VicGrid team will be holding community consultation sessions in Kyabram every Thursday from May 22 to June 19 between 10am and 3pm to answer questions and listen to community members.
Other sessions will be available at other location in the region where people can book to come in and meet one-on-one with groups.
State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland encouraged community members to provide feedback on the project while it’s in the draft phase.
“These aren’t small decisions — they permanently change landscapes, affect neighbouring farms, and disrupt the lives of people who’ve worked the land for generations,” she said.
“Too often, prime agricultural land is being targeted when there are more suitable sites available. Communities are being sidelined.
“I strongly encourage anyone who may be impacted to have their say – it’s one of the few opportunities left to influence these decisions and ensure proper protections for farming land.
“By participating in this feedback, we can ensure this is avoided.”
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