VicGrid Updates on Renewable Energy Zones Development

Update on Renewable Energy Zones in Victoria: Community Input Considered

VicGrid has released information regarding the progress on the state’s renewable energy zones (REZ), revealing that a consultation period garnered 580 submissions from the community.

The state-owned enterprise is set to evaluate the feedback received over the past four months, in conjunction with contributions collected throughout the last 18 months, ahead of the Minister for Energy and Resources officially identifying the zones. However, VicGrid has yet to outline a specific timeline for this declaration.

Proposed Renewable Energy Zones

Under the 2025 Victorian Transmission Plan, six proposed REZs have been outlined, which will complement the Gippsland Shoreline REZ specifically designed to bolster the state’s offshore wind sector.

VicGrid’s chief executive, Alistair Parker, emphasised the significance of these designated zones. “With coal-fired power stations becoming increasingly unreliable and closing down, the most economical method to replace them is by utilising solar and wind energy, supplemented by necessary storage and transmission infrastructure,” he noted.

“This transition represents a major shift that could leave a lasting impact on regional and rural Victoria, provided it is managed and planned effectively.”

Details of the Proposed REZs

The proposed renewable energy zones in Victoria include:

Central Highlands: This draft zone spans the Golden Plains, Corangamite, and Pyrenees local government areas located south-west of Ballarat, incorporating existing 500kV and 220kV transmission lines that run through or border the area.
Western: Covering two zones on either side of Horsham, one stretches from Minyip in the south-east to Hopetoun in the north, while the other lies between Stawell and Donald. These zones feature a 220kV transmission line crossing through or bordering them, with the Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector (VNI) West and the Western Renewables Link set to be developed nearby.
Gippsland: The draft Gippsland REZ is situated between Morwell and Sale and includes 500kV and 220kV transmission lines as well as the proposed Marinus Link that links north-east Tasmania with Victoria’s Latrobe Valley. Furthermore, a draft offshore wind transmission line is set to link with the coastal Gippsland Shoreline REZ.
South West: This REZ comprises two zones; one is situated south-east of Hamilton between Macarthur and Darlington, while the second is located north-west of Hamilton near Coleraine. An existing 550kV transmission line stretches through the southern part of the South West REZ.
North West: Positioned between Kerang and Swan Hill, this draft REZ features a 220kV transmission line and the proposed VNI West.
Central North: This area spans two sections flanking Shepparton; the western section lies between Bendigo and Tatura, while the eastern section is positioned between Shepparton and Glenrowan, connected by a 220kV transmission line.

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