Victorian Government Cancels Central North Renewable Energy Zone Plan
The state government scrapped a proposed renewable energy zone in northern Victoria after significant resident opposition. Dookie residents celebrated the decision, citing improved agricultural land protection.
The Victorian state government has officially withdrawn plans for the Central North Renewable Energy Zone following strong local backlash. Residents in Dookie and surrounding areas argued the proposal failed to consult adequately and would have impacted prime agricultural land across Campaspe, Greater Shepparton, Benalla, and Greater Bendigo local government areas. A group representing protectors of the region stated residents felt the power of the people successfully influenced the decision. The spokesperson for Protect Dookie noted that this victory allowed farmers to experience their best rest in over a year. In response, the government indicated future investment tranches could target different locations where renewable projects can connect efficiently.