4 March 2024

The world-leading Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act 2023 is a step closer to taking effect, with consultation on new regulations starting today.

The historic Act passed the South Australian parliament in November last year. Establishing supporting regulations is the final step in the legislative process which, when complete, will facilitate hydrogen and renewable energy development in South Australia.

The government has proposed a set of regulations and is now inviting public feedback on the draft. While they cannot introduce anything outside the Act’s scope, the regulations provide more detail on release areas for competitive tender, general licensing, environmental assessment, compliance and land access.

Once enacted, the Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act 2023 will streamline the process for companies wanting to invest in large-scale hydrogen and renewable energy projects in South Australia. It creates a single regulatory framework that addresses key issues such as land access, environmental impact and Native Title rights.

Under the HRE Act:

  • The South Australian Government will identify government-owned land and waters where renewable energy projects can be hosted. Companies will compete for licences to deliver projects in these areas
  • New licensing arrangements are established for projects across all land types, enabling regulation of the entire project life cycle
  • A framework will ensure that developments are delivered with net environmental benefit
  • Requirements will be in place to ensure land is rehabilitated and returned to pre-existing conditions
  • First Nations people’s rights and interests will be considered early and throughout regulatory processes
  • Fair outcomes for landowners, communities and other pre-existing land rights holders will be sought

Consultation on the regulations is open for a six-week period, with submissions invited until Monday 15 April.