Last month the Legislative Council’s Portfolio Committee No. 4 - Regional NSW handed down its final report into the impact of renewable energy zones (REZ) on rural and regional communities and industries in NSW.  The inquiry contained specific findings related to social impact assessment (SIA) and recommended the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure review the SIA process so assessments are standardised, independently verified, and expanded. As a qualified and experienced SIA practitioner working across two REZs in NSW, we asked our Senior Social Planner Sonya Pascoe to share her views on the report.

When a major project completes its social impact assessment (SIA), it can be tempting to see that as the finish line. But it’s only the start of meaningful social performance. Our Principal Engagement and Social Planning Alysia Bradshaw explains.

Hosting large-scale renewable projects can be a tough pill to swallow for many regional communities. In addition to environmental impacts, there are increasing concerns about the impact-benefit imbalance.

Anxiety and uncertainty within a hosting community can very quickly transform into project opposition, bringing both significant challenges and added time and costs to project approvals.