Draft revision - Renewable energy systems in state registered places

Overview

The installation of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, on existing buildings is a way of supporting environmental sustainability and can support the retention and long-term use of heritage buildings. Such installations in heritage buildings must be carefully considered to avoid negative impacts on cultural heritage significance. 

This guideline sets out basic principles on how assessment is approached for the impact of the installation of renewable energy systems on the cultural heritage significance of State registered places, including precincts.

It is intended that this guide be applied to all renewable energy systems, including new technologies as they develop. 

Why your views matter

This guideline is applicable to all proposals for renewable energy systems affecting State registered places, including precincts. It will be used to inform and guide advice provided by the Heritage Council and can also be used by decision-makers for proposals affecting places included in local heritage lists. 

Objectives

• To minimise the negative impact of renewable energy systems on the cultural heritage significance of places in the State Register of Heritage Places, including precincts. 
• To increase awareness of appropriate installation of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels and wind turbines, on heritage places, including precincts, through:
  • the identification of the key issues;
  • the consideration of the Burra Charter principles; and
  • the setting of guiding principles.