Written by Squadron Energy |
Squadron Energy, Australia’s leading renewable energy company, welcomes the Queensland Government’s requirement for new wind energy developments to consult with local councils, communities and stakeholders, Squadron Energy CEO Rob Wheals said.
"We support the Queensland Government continuing to partner with industry and peak bodies to manage the challenges of the transition and to deliver benefits to regional communities.
“As an industry, we need to lift our game. There’s no doubt that in the way we engage with community we all need to step up and for those that can’t make it, they need to step out.
“We shouldn’t be afraid to hold ourselves accountable in how we engage with communities and develop and manage our assets.
“There should be clear protocols that manage access to land and protect agriculture and biosecurity.
“We need to ensure that renewable energy developers operate transparently and fairly, delivering lasting benefits to the communities we work within.
“As a leader in the industry, we want to set the bar high in renewables development. We work with our landowners, neighbours, and regional communities to deliver tailored benefits to each region.
“We recognise how vital regional communities are to how quickly we can transition away from coal to renewable energy.
“In Queensland, Squadron Energy is committed to building and maintaining relationships with the local community in the Clarke Creek region. The Clarke Creek Wind Farm team maintains a Community Consultative Committee as a forum for the free flow of ideas, opportunities, and feedback.
“A community fund of $200,000 each year is running for the life of the project, with the aim to provide funds to enhance and enrich community initiatives throughout the local community.
“Last year our Clarke Creek site hosted site visits from local students to Commonwealth members of Parliament, to demonstrate our progress and ensure the community is invited to see the positive impact it is having for the region.
“We will continue to strive to set the benchmark on working with local councils, communities and stakeholders, and support a code which includes mandatory consultation as the renewable energy rollout picks up pace.”
