Australia's clean energy transition is encountering significant delays. 

While Energy Minister Chris Bowen has highlighted the nation's ambitious goal to build approximately 3,840 wind turbines by 2030, alongside substantial solar panel and transmission line installations, the pace of development is hindered by factors including prolonged approval times and community opposition.

The Clean Energy Council reports the addition of just 115 turbines in the past year, underlining the sluggish progress towards transitioning from coal to renewable energy sources. 

Analysis by the Clean Energy Investor Group (CEIG) finds that approval times in New South Wales (NSW) averaged 746 days over the last five years, significantly delaying project commencements. 

CEIG is urging the creation of a streamlined process that should not exceed 18 months for both state and federal approvals.

The political landscape poses a challenge to the deployment of renewable infrastructure too. Acciona's Orana wind farm, initially projected to generate 600 megawatts, saw its capacity 

reduced to 250 megawatts due to NSW's stringent planning rules. 

Meanwhile, the Liverpool Range Wind Farm, approved in 2018, has faced modifications and community concerns, delaying its development further.

NSW has taken steps to expedite the approval process, reducing assessment times by 60 per cent since 2016.

Yet, with 55 out of 93 approved projects still not operational, industry cooperation remains crucial. 

The Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) is a focal point for NSW's clean energy aspirations, but project realisations are lagging.

In contrast, the Illawarra REZ, declared over a year ago, has yet to see any renewable project proposals. 

The closure of the Russell Vale coal mine exemplifies the urgent need for transition strategies for displaced workers. 

EnergyCo is reportedly working on upgrading transmission infrastructure to support the Illawarra REZ and other industrial hubs. This is essential for accommodating future energy demands and facilitating the transition to renewables. 

Despite the challenges, there is optimism that strategic investments and policy reforms can accelerate the clean energy transition, ensuring a sustainable and economically viable future for regions transitioning away from coal.