Tuesday 1 September 2009

City drafts renewable energy policy

West Australian
Wednesday 26/8/2009 Page: 47

The City of Stirling has launched a draft of WA's first renewable energy system policy, which covers the planting of wind turbines in commercial and residential areas. The policy sets the framework for incorporating the new technology into homes, offices, shops and other commercial precincts. The aim is to ensure wind turbines can be used without adversely affecting the local amenity.

For example, they must be located to sides or rear of properties so as not to affect significantly the existing streetscape and will be subject to height restrictions and noise controls. And while wind turbines will require planning approval and a building licence, solar panels will remain exempt.

Stirling's acting chief executive, Ross Povey, said the council had received an increasing number of inquiries concerning wind energy systems. They would be addressed by the draft policy. "It is certainly a step in the right direction to ensure the city does all it can to encourage the incorporation of sustainable and renewable energy systems in the future," he said. The policy will be dynamic and will be modified over time as renewable energy technologies advance. The draft is being advertised for public comment.

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