“The draft Guidelines strike a balance between providing opportunities for investment in wind farms and protecting local communities from potential impacts of new developments,” Ms Goward said.

“The former NSW Labor Government left communities like ours in the dark in relation to renewable energy and largely ignored their concerns.

“These draft guidelines ensure all decisions on wind farm developments take into account the views of locals.”

These draft guidelines introduce tough new measures for new wind farms including:

* A rigorous gateway assessment process for wind farm applications with turbines proposed within 2km of existing residences

* The most stringent noise controls for wind farms in Australia and

* Extensive community consultation with local communities.

“Community consultation is pivotal to everything this Government does in the planning area. As these guidelines are in draft form, residents and applicants can continue to have their say in the future approach to wind farms in NSW. The draft guidelines can be accessed via planning.nsw.gov.au/onexhibition until March 14,” Ms Goward said.

“I encourage all locals to get involved and make sure their voice is heard on the future of wind farm developments in NSW.

“If you have any concerns about wind farms or have experiences negotiations with wind farm companies, this is the chance to have your say.

“Put it in writing and make sure your concerns or your support are taken into account.”