What are the REZ?

The development of the Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) across the state is a key initiative in Victoria’s energy transformation. REZs are areas of abundant renewable energy resources such as solar and wind, the full development of which can ensure the timely and cost-effective delivery of secure and clean energy for Victoria.

With necessary upgrades to our electricity grid, we can harness the enormous solar, wind and hydro resources in these regions to provide clean, reliable and affordable energy to all Victorians while delivering jobs and investment for our regions.

The Victorian Government has committed to developing the REZs to meet the following objectives:

• Ensure that communities, including traditional owners, are engaged in the process;
• Provide for the orderly, planned development of renewable energy resources;
• Efficiently and effectively expand the grid and connect new generation; and
• Reduce network congestion and costs.

Victorian Renewable Energy Zone Development Plan Directions Paper

Community and industry stakeholders are invited to have their say on potential projects identified in the Victorian Renewable Energy Zone Development Plan Directions Paper and ongoing engagement with communities. This paper outlines the proposed pathway for the development of Victoria’s six renewable energy zones – the regions with the highest potential for renewable development. The six are located in Murray River, Western Victoria, South West Victoria, Gippsland, Ovens Murray, and Central North Victoria.

The directions paper includes a question about how a new government body called VicGrid should engage with local communities, businesses, and local governments to ensure appropriate and beneficial REZ development. VicGrid will be tasked with the overarching planning and development of Victorian REZs. VicGrid will actively engage with regional communities to ensure appropriate and beneficial development in each REZ. The form and function of VicGrid will be determined following feedback from industry and stakeholders.

Written submissions to the Victorian REZ Development Plan Directions Paper are welcome before midnight Wednesday, 31 March 2021.

Please email [email protected] to submit responses to the Renewable Energy Zone Development Plan Directions Paper.

For any queries regarding the process, please email [email protected].