The Clean Energy Council and KPMG have jointly launched Leading Principles: First Nations and Renewable Energy Projects, marking the first comprehensive national guide on meaningful engagement, consent, participation, and benefit-sharing with First Nations people in Australian renewable energy projects.
Co-authored with the First Nations Clean Energy Network, the guide operationalises the network’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Best Practice Principles for Clean Energy Projects.
Clean Energy Council chief executive officer Kane Thornton said the guide’s purpose is to uphold the rights of First Nations peoples and enhance community outcomes.
“Australia’s clean energy sector has identified the need for stronger engagement and relationships with First Nations peoples,” Thornton said.
“We are proud to partner with the First Nations Clean Energy Network and KPMG to forge a path ahead for Australia’s clean energy industry to work hand in hand with First Nations communities.
“With proper practices in place, the essential work of the energy transition will not only accelerate Australia towards achieving its targets but provide First Nations Australians with an opportunity to be heard and play a crucial role in a defining economic shift for the country.”
Leading Principles: First Nations and Renewable Energy Projects outlines expectations for industry and provides key considerations at each project stage, promoting stronger relationships and engagement with First Nations communities.
First Nations Clean Energy Network co-chair Karrina Nolan stressed the guide’s role in placing the rights, interests, and aspirations of First Nations peoples at the forefront of Australia’s clean energy transformation.
“The guide provides a new template for governments, industry and First Nations communities to work together towards the shared goal of more affordable, reliable and sustainable energy for all,” Nolan said.
“Meaningful engagement with First Nations communities leading to energy partnerships, equity and ownership opportunities stands to maximise community support for projects, increase opportunities for local employment and businesses, and deliver stronger outcomes for sustainability and energy security.
“The rights, interests and aspirations of First Nations peoples must be front and centre to achieve a just clean energy transformation, minimising risks, costs and delays for renewable energy projects being planned, developed and operated on country.
“And it’s something which must be done in partnership with industry. This guide can help with that.”
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