ACCIONA Energía welcomes the start of an industry pilot for the Federal Government’s Developer Rating Scheme to improve community engagement in the renewable energy sector.
The appointment of a supplier to design, deliver and manage the Scheme is an important step in ensuring better-quality engagement in regional communities.
ACCIONA Energía acting COO David Bratby said communities were essential partners in designing and developing renewable energy generation.
“Regional communities deserve to be properly consulted and fairly compensated as part of the development of considered and area-appropriate renewable energy projects,’’ Bratby said.
“The Scheme will help empower communities to make informed decisions about developer intentions and to encourage improvements to consultation standards.”
ACCIONA Energía is pleased to have been appointed to the pilot and looks forward to working with Equifax Australasia Credit Ratings to help design and test the scheme.
“We have an established consultation process that prioritises working closely with local communities, councils and landholders to deliver a positive social impact throughout the development and operation of our renewable energy projects,’’ Bratby said.
“However, we are always striving to improve our approach and we welcome the opportunity to take part in an independent assessment, not only to help us to do better, but to help lift the entire industry as well.’’