The Clean Energy Council (CEC) has publically backed the South Australian Government’s policy on the future of wind farms, saying it strikes the right balance between hearing the community’s concerns and supporting the industry.

 

CEC Policy Director Russell Marsh said South Australia had been a renewable energy pioneer, and that the policy adjustment promised to continue to grow its reputation.

 

“These latest amendments to the planning framework, announced today by Planning Minister John Rau, follow a year-long trial and are ultimately a good news story for jobs, investment and cleaner sources of energy in South Australia,” Mr Marsh said.

 

“South Australia should be proud that it has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by more than 27 per cent over the last five years, while generating approximately $1.8 billion worth of investment for local communities and 840 new jobs, thanks to wind power.

 

“This announcement shows that the government recognises the value of wind energy to South Australia’s economy, but that development needs to be sustainable for the communities involved – an idea we strongly support,” he said.

 

South Australia has set a target of sourcing 33 per cent of its power from renewable energy by 2020. Wind farms are currently among the lowest cost forms of renewable energy that can be rolled out on a large scale and are expected to play a major role in meeting this target.



The wind farm rules will set a minimum setback distance of 1km between houses and turbines and a 2km distance from townships. Third party appeals can be triggered when turbines are within 2km of houses.