The NSW Government has issued a draft framework for assessment of wind energy projects. The draft is open for public consultation until 16 September 2016. Unsurprisingly the government’s focus is on noise and visual impacts featuring a prescriptive and detailed process. If implemented, the proposed framework represents a paradigm shift to more regulation and scrutiny, and as a consequence increased costs and potential issues for wind farm developers. Further, the scope for dispute may be enhanced, with objectors to proposals being able to draw on government policy as a tool to push for wind farm re-design and/or prevention.

HWL Ebsworth’s National Planning & Environment Practice Group Head Jane Hewitt outlines the exhibited draft planning framework in an e-bulletin which you can view by clicking here. This article is relevant to wind energy developers, planners, consultants, local  government, investors and financiers.