The group is questioning if emergency-service planning and resources are keeping pace.
As a result, CFAVG is calling on the Victorian Government and all candidates contesting local seats to commit to ensuring CFA volunteers have the training, equipment, information and operational support they need to safely respond to the changing risks.
CFAVG secretary Leigh Harry said the issue was not whether renewable energy should proceed.
“That is a policy decision for government. Our role is to stand up for the volunteers who may be called upon when something goes wrong,” Mr Harry said.
“CFA volunteers don't decide where solar farms, battery storage facilities or transmission infrastructure are built. They don't set Victoria's renewable-energy targets.
“But when this infrastructure is built in their communities, they may be among the people expected to respond.”
The north-east is experiencing a significant number of renewable-energy developments.
The 250MW Goorambat East Solar Farm, near Benalla, commenced operations in 2026 and covers about 630 hectares.
A major solar facility is operating at Glenrowan, while battery energy storage projects have also been approved in the broader Glenrowan-Winton area.
The proposed Central North Renewable Energy Zone, which encompassed communities including Benalla, Goorambat, Glenrowan and Dookie, has now been cancelled.
However, many renewable energy facilities are already in place, and more are planned in the area.
“We are seeing a changing regional risk profile,” Mr Harry said.
“Our CFA volunteers already deal with grassfires, bushfires, road crashes, storms and other emergencies.
“Now they are also operating in a landscape containing large-scale solar facilities, batteries and associated infrastructure.
“The question is whether emergency-service planning is keeping pace.
“CFAVG acknowledges that CFA has already undertaken important work around renewable-energy preparedness, including guidance covering emergency planning, access, water supplies and information for emergency responders.
“Training has also been undertaken with local brigades, including Glenrowan, Winton and Wangaratta North.”
