The Central North Renewal Energy Zone (REZ) has changed, now stretching from southeast of Dookie all the way to Glenrowan West and Greta West.
The proposed new REZ map shows a shaded area over land near transmission lines where renewable energy facilities are likely to be built into the future.
It very much differs to the draft proposed REZ map released in May this year that had the total Central North REZ positioned between Bendigo and Shepparton.
It's a change that Wangaratta-based Nationals' MP for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, has condemned the government for as he said it was done without proper consultation with communities.
VicGrid released the map last week and although it is not the final draft and will be subject to further feedback, Mr McCurdy believes this was a blindside by the government.
“The community was completely taken by surprise,” he said.
“The first plan didn’t include our region, and now suddenly Glenrowan and surrounding areas are expected to host large-scale energy projects.
"People feel like decisions are being made over their heads, and that’s just not on.”
Mr McCurdy said while jobs are always welcome, the cost to local farmers and towns is far too high.
“Our prime agricultural land is under threat, and when farmers lose the ability to work their land, towns like Wangaratta will feel the impact," he said.
"Energy infrastructure is important, but not if it comes at the expense of local livelihoods.”
Mr McCurdy also raised concerns about the financial burden on residents.
“Families are already struggling with rising power bills and the cost-of-living crisis.," he said.
"The government keeps talking billions, but at the end of the day, it’s the people in our communities who will pay the price.”
Mr McCurdy said the Nationals are committed to standing up for regional communities, ensuring proper consultation, and protecting local interests from rushed government planning.
“We will continue to defend farmers and towns alike, making sure regional voices are heard and that projects are fair and sustainable for our communities,” he said.
VicGrid reported last week that in response to feedback following the release of the draft Victorian Transmission Plan in May, VicGrid has adjusted the size and shape of renewable energy zones and refined some of its transmission projects.
Some areas have been removed from or added to zones, and new separate sections have been added in the South West REZ and Central North REZ.
“Industry stakeholders consistently told us the size of zones and the amount of energy generated from each zone needed to be at a level that enabled the development of technically and commercially viable renewable projects,” VicGrid chief executive Alistair Parker said.
Earlier this year VicGrid advised landholders in a renewable energy zone that they could choose whether to host new wind or solar farm on their property.
VicGrid said it’s the landholder's decision and they encouraged them to discuss their desires with their neighbours.
All proposed projects will continue to be subject to planning (without the option to appeal via VCAT) and environmental approval processes.