The Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) has introduced new draft requirements aimed at enhancing community engagement in the process of approving major transmission projects, as part of an effort to accelerate the expansion of the energy grid. In particular, the proposed changes will integrate community engagement into the RIT-T process and Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) development by involving local communities earlier in the process to ensure transparent information, clarity of rights, and a stronger social license for these projects.
The draft rules specify when and how transmission businesses are obligated to engage with stakeholders who might be affected by significant transmission developments. These stakeholders include local landowners, community members, local councils, and traditional owners. The draft conditions outline key aspects of engagement, such as providing clear and relevant information, tailoring communication methods to diverse stakeholder needs, explaining stakeholder roles, incorporating stakeholder feedback into decision-making, and involving stakeholders in the planning of future projects like Integrated System Plans (ISPs) and Renewable Energy Zones (REZs).
These draft requirements are built upon recommendations from the AEMC’s Transmission Planning and Investment Review and a rule change request from Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen. The goal is to foster earlier and more effective conversations between communities and transmission businesses, enabling concerns to be addressed at an earlier stage. Stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on the proposed rules, and the AEMC will hold a forum for discussions.
