The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE) is calling for feedback on planning reforms to make it easier for homeowners to install solar batteries and for telcos to install technology to improve mobile and internet coverage.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Rob Stokes said the proposed changes to the Infrastructure State Environment Planning Policy (SEPP) would cut red tape and aimed to remove hurdles in the planning system for more sustainable energy and faster telecommunications.
“More people are working from home than ever and many of them want their homes to be powered by renewable energy,” Mr Stokes said.
“These changes to the Infrastructure SEPP will help telcos provide more fast, reliable telecommunications and make it easier for homeowners to power their homes with renewable energy,” he said.
“This will help homeowners save time and money, cut their future energy bills, reduce demand on the electricity network and contribute to lower energy prices.”
Mr Stokes said the proposed changes would eliminate the need for planning approvals for the installation of household-scale solar battery systems; installation of NBN cables; repair or upgrading of existing technology; installation of solar panels to power telecommunications facilities; and site inspections, provided the location was not unnecessarily disturbed.
The Minister said people could have a say on the planning changes until 13 September.
Further information on DPIE’s two proposed amendments to the Infrastructure SEPP, including information on how to have a say, can be accessed at this PS News link.
