FAQs, Landholder Resources
Renewable Energy Projects (FAQs)
Victoria has committed to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
To achieve this goal, there will be an increasing number of renewable energy and transmission infrastructure projects rolled out across Victoria in coming years.
Renewable energy projects can include sustainable power production facilities like wind and solar farms.
Trust for Nature has developed a resource compiling frequently asked questions in relation to renewable energy projects, including information about how Trust for Nature can support landholders who become aware of a project that may impact a covenant.
What are renewable energy projects and transmission infrastructure projects?
Renewable energy projects include sustainable power production facilities like wind and solar farms. Transmission infrastructure projects involve constructing transmission lines that carry the renewable energy from its source of production to a converter station, where power is dispersed across the state. These structures can take the form of overhead powerlines or underground transmission lines.
Where will the transmission lines be constructed?
As part of the Victorian energy transition, VicGrid is now developing the Victorian transmission plan which will inform where the transmission infrastructure will be located. Both overhead and underground transmission lines will require the clearing of trees and vegetation.
Will renewable energy projects and associated transmission infrastructure be declared a project of State or Regional Significance?
Yes, it is likely that given the size, scope and importance for delivering state policy, that renewables projects will be declared a project of state or regional significance.
How will renewable energy projects affect covenants?
Renewables projects that are owned and managed by private proponents will need to adhere to the protections afforded by a Trust for Nature covenant.
However, the publicly owned parts of renewables projects, notably transmission lines and related infrastructure, are likely to be declared a project of State or Regional Significance. In this case, the presence of a conservation covenant will not prevent a project of State or Regional Significance from proceeding on that land.
If the covenant is sufficiently affected, it may be removed on the recommendation of the Secretary. However, Trust for Nature is not aware of a covenant ever having been removed because of a project of State or Regional Significance.
Can I object to projects of State and Regional Significance?
Where there is a consultation and public submission process, landholders will be able to participate. However, in some circumstances the Minister for Planning may waive the requirement for public consultation.
What support can Trust for Nature provide?
Trust for Nature’s Covenanting Team can prepare a letter from the Trust outlining the conservation value of the covenanted property and providing fact-based information about the Trust for Nature Covenant. This letter can be used in a consultation or public submission process. To obtain a letter, please contact Trust for Nature’s Covenanting Team.
What should I do if I become aware of a project that may impact a covenant?
Covenantors who become aware of a project of state or regional significance that may impact their land should contact Trust for Nature at trustfornature@tfn.org.au or call the general phone line at 1800 999 333 and ask to speak with the Covenanting Manager.
Where can I find further information?
To see if there is a consultation of a major state project happening near you, visit the engage website. To see all State projects under development, visit this page.
How can I contact Trust for Nature?
You can contact Trust for Nature’s Covenanting Team by phoning 1800 999 333 and asking to speak with the Covenanting Manager.
You can also contact Trust for Nature via email at trustfornature@tfn.org.au.