What should you check before starting a bioenergy project in Tasmania?
In Tasmania, most bioenergy projects need three early checks: whether the activity needs a licence, permit or approval from the Environment Protection Authority Tasmania (EPA Tasmania), whether planning approval is required, and whether the local network can connect your plant. Thresholds and requirements change, so confirm each with the official regulator before committing money.
Do you need an environmental licence?
Under the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994, larger activities listed as Level 2 activities — which include certain waste treatment, composting and fuel-burning activities — are assessed by EPA Tasmania and operate under permit conditions. Smaller activities are generally regulated by councils.
The simplest first step is to describe your activity, feedstock and expected volumes to EPA Tasmania and ask which level applies.
Waste rules that shape your feedstock and outputs
Tasmania introduced a statewide landfill levy under the Waste and Resource Recovery Act 2022, administered with the Tasmanian Waste and Resource Recovery Board, which supports organics and resource recovery. Digestate and compost use is subject to EPA requirements for the material.
Planning approval
Development applications go to the local council under the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993 and the Tasmanian Planning Scheme. Applications for Level 2 activities are referred to the EPA Board for environmental assessment.
Electricity and gas network connection
TasNetworks runs the electricity network. Tasmania's electricity is mostly hydro and wind, and natural gas distribution covers limited areas, so on-site heat use and local demand often matter more than export. Discuss connection with TasNetworks early.
A practical order of checks
- Describe the activity — feedstock, source (on-site or received), volumes and outputs.
- Ask the environmental regulator which licence or permission category applies.
- Talk to council about zoning, traffic, odour and neighbours.
- Contact the network business before sizing any generator or gas injection.
- Confirm digestate or compost use so your by-products have a lawful outlet.
This guide is general information, not legal or regulatory advice. Shelby does not lodge applications.
Frequently asked questions
Does every bioenergy project in Tasmania need an environmental licence?
No. It depends on the type and scale of the activity. Smaller on-farm or on-site systems may fall below thresholds, but planning approval and other duties can still apply. Confirm with the Environment Protection Authority Tasmania (EPA Tasmania).
Can I sell or spread digestate?
Possibly, but processed organic outputs are usually regulated. Check whether a specific order, exemption or EPA requirement applies before supplying digestate or compost to others.
Can Shelby handle approvals for me?
No. Shelby helps you organise evidence and questions. Applications go through the regulator, council and network business, with qualified advisers where needed.
Sources & References
- epa.tas.gov.au, EPA Tasmania
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- legislation.tas.gov.au, Tasmanian legislation
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- planning.tas.gov.au, Tasmanian Planning Commission
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- tasnetworks.com.au, TasNetworks
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Verification incomplete, do not rely on this reference for an investment or approval decision.
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