Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson has unveiled the Draft Guideline on Community Benefits for Renewable Energy Projects, marking a significant step in the WA government’s efforts to ensure that all Western Australians share in the advantages of the state’s energy transition.
Regional communities, particularly those situated in areas rich with renewable resources, are set to play a pivotal role as Western Australia accelerates the shift to clean energy.
The development of renewable energy projects promises to deliver “clean electrons across our state as well as creating jobs and supply chain opportunities”.
The Draft Guideline was officially launched at the WA Local Government Association Renewable Energy Forum, following sustained calls from local governments, industry stakeholders, and community members for clearer direction on the delivery of community benefits from renewable energy developments.
Renewable energy proponents have indicated their readiness to invest in community benefits, but have also urged the government to establish broad guidelines to clarify and standardise expectations.
This model, already adopted in other jurisdictions with industry support, aims to provide greater certainty for investors and communities alike.
The new Guideline is designed to:
- Offer the industry increased investment certainty
- Serve as a starting point for discussions on fair and sensible benefit arrangements
- Balance local community benefits with the affordability of energy
- Recognise that the benefits from infrastructure such as wind turbines, solar farms, and batteries may not be proportionate to the local impact
- Simplify the community consultation process for all parties involved
While the principles outlined in the Draft Guideline are applicable across Western Australia, the approach is particularly relevant for projects seeking connection to the South West Interconnected System.
The Draft Guideline is now available on the Energy Policy WA website, with public consultation open until 4 August 2025.
Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson emphasised the government’s commitment to collaborative policy-making, stating: “Industry and communities have been clear – and this government has listened and delivered.
“The Draft Guideline provides support for the community and renewable energy developers to achieve sensible arrangements that balance benefit for the local community with the affordability of energy.
Sanderson said she welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with WALGA to gain insights into the priorities of local governments, and appreciated hearing their perspectives during the launch of the Draft Guideline.
She added that the WA government is committed to ensuring the benefits of the energy transition reach communities across Western Australia, with the Draft Guideline representing a key step towards that goal.
For more information or to participate in the consultation process, visit the Energy Policy WA website.