YourSAy HRE release areas

Feedback was sought on two proposed release areas, near the Gawler Ranges and Whyalla, to develop large-scale renewable energy projects.

The Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act 2023 (HRE Act) establishes Australia's first dedicated licensing and regulatory framework for large-scale hydrogen and renewable energy projects. The HRE Act introduces a process to facilitate renewable energy development on designated land (pastoral land, prescribed Crown land, and state waters, through the designation of specific 'release areas'.

Once a release area is declared, renewable energy companies will submit competitive tenders to develop projects on the land. This process ensures only the most suitable and sustainable projects are awarded access, while also supporting regional development objectives and allowing for co-existence with existing land uses.

In close consultation with Gawler Ranges Aboriginal Corporation and Barngarla Determination Aboriginal Corporation, the government has identified two proposed release areas under the HRE Act:

  • Gawler Ranges East proposed release area which spans approximately 5,200 km2 on the Upper Eyre Peninsula
  • Whyalla West proposed release area which spans approximately 6,500 km2 in the Upper Spencer Gulf region

A map showing the proposed release areas is available on the South Australian Resources Information Gateway

Feedback was invited on the locations, boundaries and any sensitivities and constraints that may be affected by development on the land.

Renewable energy developers were also asked to identify specific areas where they may wish to develop projects within the proposed release areas.

Gawler Ranges East proposed release area

Whyalla West proposed release area

Regional drop-in sessions in Whyalla and Port Augusta  provided an opportunity for the community to talk with members from the Department for Energy and Mining.

Have your say

Feedback could be provided by:

Submissions closed on Tuesday 22 October 2024.

The next steps

Following consultation, the government will consider the feedback and will make a decision regarding the declaration of the release areas.