General News
18 February, 2026
VicGrid puts brakes on energy zone talk
THE State Government has halted official consultations on its proposed renewable energy zones.
Last week’s pause followed calls by Rural Councils Victoria and the Victorian Faremers’ Federation to hold off on community talks while parts of Victoria begin recovery from last month’s bushfires.
However, VicGrid told the Loddon Herald on Monday it was continuing to offer sessions when requested by community and continuing to receive submissions.
Friday’s announcement came as consultants for VicGrid continued to contact groups asking for talks.
A VicGrid spokesperson said: “The recent bushfires have had a devastating impact on many regional communities and our thoughts are with all of those who have been affected.
“We’re amending some of our consultation activities because we know the focus of impacted communities right now is on responding to fires, supporting their neighbours and moving into recovery.
“In areas that have been affected by bushfires, we postponed community sessions for this consultation that were planned in late January and early February.
“VicGrid is rescheduling these events to ensure people can contribute when the time is right.
“We are also looking to extend the consultation period beyond the current February 22 end date so people still have a chance to have their say on matters that are important to them.
“We will continue to review community needs and provide an update on future engagement in February,” according to the spokesperson.
VicGrid has been carrying out consultation on draft ministerial orders for the declaration of renewable energy zones since November.
The draft north-west zone includes includes northern areas of the Loddon Shire.
According to the draft: “Developers must talk to landholders to get permission to build renewable generation projects ... on their land. Landholders can choose whether or not to host a project.
Landholders who do host renewable generation projects will receive financial payments and economic benefits that they negotiate with the developer. Projects will also be required to share economic and other benefits with the whole community.”
“This zone will help contain development and coordinate connections to the VNI West project and existing lines.”