Regional communities support the shift to renewable energy but need a stronger say in development and a fairer share of the benefits, according to a new report published by the Australian Public Policy Institute (APPI).
The report, Social licence and benefit-sharing in the shift to renewable energy in regional communities, draws on workshops and interviews with stakeholders in Batlow, Wellington and Deniliquin. Led by Dr Simon Wright (Charles Sturt University) as part of an APPI Policy Challenge Grant, the research identifies practical ways to build trust and strengthen partnerships with communities where energy infrastructure is being developed. The research was undertaken in collaboration with experts from RE-Alliance and Macquarie University.
Over the course of this research, community participants voiced the need for more consistent consultation to influence decision-making. Unclear planning processes were seen to undermine trust in the process, while participants viewed benefit-sharing and compensation as insufficiently targeted, despite the significant social and economic impacts of living alongside infrastructure.
The report sets out a practical agenda for the NSW Government to build the community trust and support needed to deliver the renewable energy transition and lasting regional benefits. It proposes enforceable engagement standards so that communities can help shape projects from the outset, alongside planning rules that embed community-led benefit-sharing. Financial and technical support should help communities and councils negotiate benefits that reflect local priorities. Lastly, a coordinated, place-based approach should manage the cumulative impacts of developments and bring specific benefit programs together to support long-term regional needs.
Lead author Dr Simon Wright said the research showed communities wanted to help shape the transition. “Communities are not rejecting renewable energy. They want clear information, a genuine role in decisions and confidence that these projects will deliver lasting local benefits. Giving communities the support to engage as equal partners can help turn that support into enduring trust.”
Communities are not rejecting renewable energy. They want clear information, a genuine role in decisions and confidence that these projects will deliver lasting local benefits. Giving communities the support to engage as equal partners can help turn that support into enduring trust.
Dr Simon Wright, lead author
Dr Gillian Smith, APPI Manager of Grants and Fellows, said the report offers a practical agenda informed by regional experience. “This research brings community perspectives directly into the policy discussion. It identifies opportunities to strengthen engagement, coordinate planning and ensure investment in renewable energy delivers benefits that reflect local needs and priorities.”
The research was supported by an APPI Policy Challenge Grant, which supports research translation and engagement for public policy impact.
