Herbert Smith Freehills identifies quick wins to speed up clean energy project approvals in NSW

Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) and Clean Energy Investor Group (CEIG) has released their report into NSW statutory planning approvals processes - Delivering Major Clean Energy Projects in NSW. The report identifies quick wins and longer-term reform opportunities to accelerate and streamline the approval of major clean energy projects to keep the State on track to achieve net zero by 2050. 

HSF Partner for Environment, Planning and Communities, Peter Briggs, said the review identified that NSW clean energy targets hinge on efficient, comprehensive, and transparent planning procedures without undue delays.

“By adopting the simple fixes outlined in our review, NSW can speed up the approvals process while maintaining the thoroughness demanded by the planning process,” Mr Briggs said.

“The timely completion of key renewable energy and transmission projects is crucial for reaching renewable energy generation targets by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050 in NSW,” he said.

The report commissioned by CEIG explores the strengths and challenges of the existing NSW planning system and identifies short and longer-term opportunities to improve current planning approvals processes.

HSF Environment, Planning and Communities Senior Associate, Tom Dougherty, said the report illustrates the need for NSW to streamline its planning approval processes to remain an attractive location for clean energy investment and support the State’s new greenhouse gas emissions targets under the Climate Change (Net Zero Future) Act 2023.

“With the commencement of new greenhouse gas emissions targets for NSW on 11 December 2023, this report provides well-timed guidance on how the State’s planning system can be streamlined for major clean energy projects and support a pathway to net zero,” he said.

CEIG CEO, Simon Corbell said that a more efficient approval process would not compromise thorough and robust community consultation which is vital for the success of new renewable projects.

“Increasing clean energy and phasing out harmful fossil fuels will help us cut pollution and protect our environment. It’s a given that projects need to be in the right locations, in consultation with communities, and any environmental impacts are minimised,” he said.

Read the Delivering Major Clean Energy Projects in NSW - Review of NSW Statutory Planning Approvals Processes report below.

Download the report