The Victorian Government has unveiled the Victorian Transmission Investment Framework (VTIF), reforming how energy infrastructure is planned and developed to ensure the State’s electricity grid is built to support its renewables agenda.
The VTIF, which will ensure that environmental, land-use, cultural, and social aspects are taken into account early in identifying sites for new transmission projects, was introduced today by Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reform the way we plan our energy infrastructure with genuine consultation with communities and industry at the heart of the process,” Minister D’Ambrosio said.
“As Victoria moves toward 95 percent renewables by 2035, we have to update and modernise our grid to deliver this cheaper, more reliable energy to homes and businesses across the state,” Minister D’Ambrosio added.
As Victoria’s existing coal-fired power plants expire, the State Government noted the need for additional renewable energy capacity, backed up by transmission infrastructure, to deliver electricity from Victoria’s wind and solar resources to homes and businesses across the State.
VicGrid, a Victorian Government agency, will lead transmission project planning and development, ensuring that local communities, landholders, Traditional Owners, and other important stakeholders are involved throughout the process.
“The Victorian Transmission Investment Framework will help us get the planning of new infrastructure right, so we can make sure all Victorians benefit from the transition to renewable energy,” VicGrid CEO Alistair Parker said.
VicGrid will provide customised engagement to Traditional Owners and local stakeholder groups, including local reference groups as advisory bodies and have a physical presence in local communities by employing local workers to create trust and confidence in the planning process.
VicGrid will also provide a framework for collaboration among government, industry, and communities to ensure that host communities benefit directly and that regional development prospects are maximised.
VicGrid already manages the planning and development of Victoria’s renewable energy zones, and it will continue to do so while it takes on additional tasks and responsibilities under the Framework.
VicGrid already manages the planning and development of Victoria’s renewable energy zones and will continue to do so while it takes on additional tasks and responsibilities under the Framework.
This involves creating a Victorian Transmission Plan, outlining the transmission infrastructure needed for Victoria’s renewable energy transition over the next 15 years.
Priority areas for renewable energy zone growth will be identified by early 2024, with a draft Victorian Transmission Plan available for public consultation by late 2024.
