This zone has not been formally declared, and the next formal round of consultation will be on draft ministerial orders for the declaration of the zone.
Ahead of this formal consultation, VicGrid will run three meetings at the Dookie Memorial Hall on May 5, 6 and 11, followed by further meetings and information sessions across the proposed zone.
VicGrid chief executive Alistair Parker said VicGrid was running these sessions to give landholders and stakeholders in the zone more information about the process, as well as an opportunity to give their feedback ahead of the formal consultation period.
“We know some people in new areas of the zone have expressed concern about what this will mean for them,” he said.
“We are keen to hear what locals think, and I want to reassure them that there will be more consultation before this zone is declared.
“I also think it’s important people know that, whether they are inside or outside a zone, landholders always have the right to decide whether or not they want to host solar, wind or battery developments — it’s their choice.”
VicGrid has been consulting with communities and stakeholders across the state for over two years to identify the best places for renewable energy development.
In August last year VicGrid released the 2025 Victorian Transmission Plan, which was the result of statewide consultation with landholders, communities, regional stakeholders and key regional industries such as agriculture.
The plan included six proposed onshore renewable energy zones, including a proposed Central North Renewable Energy Zone.
Mr Parker said minimising impacts on farming was a central focus of the Victorian Transmission Plan and that VicGrid had engaged extensively with the agriculture industry to get its advice on what types of farming were and were not compatible with renewable development.
“We recognise that agriculture is a crucial industry for all Victorians,” he said.
“It’s the lifeblood of local communities, it’s a key drive of our economy, and it puts food on all of our tables.
“A big focus for us has been drawing on existing datasets and working with the agriculture industry so we can locate renewable development in areas where it is most compatible with farming practices.
“We’re committed to continuing to talk to farmers and peak agricultural bodies and to taking their feedback on board as we make these decisions.”
Session details
Tuesday, May 5 at the Supper Room at the Dookie Memorial Hall - 7pm.
Wednesday, May 6 at the Supper Room at the Dookie Memorial Hall - 7pm
Monday, May 11 at the Supper Room at the Dookie Memorial Hall - 7pm
People can find more details of how to book a group meeting or register for an information session by visiting vicgrid.com.au/community/events-and-webinars
