Public forum at Crowlands

Pyrenees Advocate
Friday 6/10/2006, Page: 3

THE PROPONENT of the Crowlands Wind Farm, Pacific Hydro, will hold information sessions about the project on October 18 at the Crowlands Hall. Community Relations Manager at Pacific Hydro, Emily Wood, encouraged interested parties to come along and find out more about the proposed project.

"The information sessions will provide an informal environment for the community to find out more about the wind farm we are proposing for Crowlands. We hope they will take the opportunity ask questions, raise any concerns they may have and provide their perspective on the project", Ms Wood said.

"We are interested in what the community has to say about the wind farm and would like their input into the planning process," she said. Information on display will include an initial layout of the wind farm, details about wind energy and about the company.

Pacific Hydro will be available to share information about environmental studies it has been conducting, answer questions about the project and how wind energy works. The company says its keen to take advantage of the Victorian Government's Renewable Energy Legislation which requires energy retailers to purchase 10% of their electricity from renewable sources by 2016 in an effort to reduce the impact of greenhouse gas emissions.

"Our energy consumption in Victoria is one of the highest per capita in the world and the VRET legislation will ensure that some of our increasing energy needs will be provided by no-emission sources like wind energy. In terms of reducing our impact on climate change, this legislation provides a very positive step forward." Ms Wood said.

Around the world, wind energy is the fastest growing form of electricity due to its low impact on the environment, relatively easy installation and cheap electricity costs.

"The- nearby Challicum Hills wind farm has been a great success for the local community and provides enough no emission electricity to supply 25,000 Victorian homes each year. We hope the Crowlands wind farm will see a similar outcome, help to reduce our impact on climate change and support the local community," added Ms Wood.

Information sessions about the Crowlands wind farm will be held from 12 to 8pm on October 18 at the Crowlands Hall.