Apologies to all our subscribers for our lack of information flow since the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) approved the Springdale solar project.

Having read the IPC’s so called ‘Statement of Reasons‘ for approval of the project we are appalled at the non-existent analysis of our objections, which were all supported by research from credible organisations. see Statement of Reasons and the SSAG submission to the IPC below

While pondering on what to do next, we happened upon an article on the Renew Economy (15 March 2021) website titled ‘Social licence emerges as critical issue for renewable energy zones, NSW says’. For those of you who are not familiar with the term ‘social licence‘, it means that companies/developers need to gain the community’s acceptance of a proposed development and build a relationship through genuine engagement. As we all know neither Renew Estate, RES or the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE) made any attempt to engage with our community. Why does the NSW government say one thing and do the opposite? The Springdale solar project is devoid of any ‘social licence‘. see Renew Economy article below

Again, we have sought the assistance of our local member Ms Wendy Tuckerman who has forwarded on our behalf SSAG’s letter to the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes MP, asking why does ‘social licence‘ only apply to renewable energy zones (REZ)? Why is an individual project such as the Springdale solar project not given the same consideration when it comes to ‘social licence‘?

We also mentioned how poor we believe the ‘Statement of Reasons‘ was and how disingenuous the DPIE was in conducting the assessment process and that this community does not accept the decision that has been made.

We believe this community deserves far more consideration than we have been shown and in our letter the SSAG has invited Mr Stokes (Minister for Planning and Public Spaces) and the IPC Commissioners to come and meet with the local community to explain why this development was approved without community or Council support and definitely NO SOCIAL LICENCE. see letter to Minister below

SSAG was also approached by the Canberra Times in late February asking about the Springdale solar project, included below is the article for your information.

The SSAG will continue to provide updates.