Canberra causes wind farm hold-up

The following story clearly demonstrates the will to develop wind energy continues despite federal government handicaps, coal industry pressure and the anti wind farm nay-sayers predictions of doom and gloom. I wonder why it is OK to subsidise coal powered electricity and coal research but not wind power?

From the Hobart Mercury
By Luke Sayer - 25 Feb06

THE loss of federal energy credits could pose a much greater threat to Tasmania's largest wind farm than delays in local government planning.

West Coast Mayor Darryl Gerrity this week raised doubts about the future of the Heemskirk wind farm, north-west of Zeehan. He said ongoing delays made him wonder about the commitment to the $300 million project.

But Roaring 40s project development manager Gustavo Bodini yesterday said planning for the 160 megawatt farm was continuing unabated. Roaring 40s, a joint venture company formed by Hydro Tasmania and China Light and Power, is behind the project along with other wind farms in Tasmania.

Mr Bodini said the Heemskirk project was still on track, despite planning starting back in January 2003.

"It is such a complex site in terms of environment and location, we have to have a very comprehensive study of the environment," he said.

"We are working with state and federal regulators to obtain approval to operate a wind farm there."

Mr Bodini said the Howard Government's decision to cease the Mandatory Renewable Energy Target scheme (MRET) was affecting a number of wind farm projects. The MRET scheme offers financial incentives for establishing clean and green energy.

"We are encouraging the government to reconsider the [MRET] change," he said.

"But, at the moment, that's the major threat to the project."

Introduction

Welcome. This webblog exists because a group of concerned South Gippsland residents have formed a local "Friends of Future Generations" alliance to put an alternative, positive view of clean, renewable energy, especially wind energy.

Friends of Future Generations has a casual association with like minded groups of concerned and supportive citizens from all States and Territories drawn from:

1. Areas with currently operating Wind Farms,
2. Areas proposed for Wind Farm development awaiting Government approval,
3. Potential Wind Farms at the planning stage,
4. People from many areas who support sustainable and renewable energy development, and are supportive of wind energy in particular because of its proven technology and ready availability.

Our group has formed due to the members increasing concern about climate change that could affect all areas, and because we are concerned that anti-wind energy campaigners have created a false impression in this community and others, that wind energy developers are not welcome in this area. We believes the effects of climate change on communities can no longer be ignored.

We have to look at all sustainable energy alternatives by supporting technologies in areas where resources are available for the appropriate technology. South Gippsland has an excellent wind resource, so it makes sense that we have some wind farms developed here. We urge all South Gippsland residents to start thinking beyond their own backyards and beyond their own lifetimes.

We are asking for your support so we can represent your positive voices on wind energy and other practical forms of renewable energy, to politicians and local councillors. We hope they will consider all aspects of renewable technologies rather than take the short-sighted and selfish view of 'Not In My Backyard' in the mistaken belief they are representing a majority voice.

We are not asking you to make public protests, join street demonstrations, hold up slogans or put signs on your property. You can retain your anonymity if you wish. Secondary College students are particularly encouraged to add their support for wind farms as well as other forms of renewable energy, as it is their world we are damaging.

We have no affiliations with Wind Energy Companies or Associations with the wider Renewable Energy Industry.

Your positive response will reinforce Gippsland Friends of Future Generations belief that there is a large section of our community ready and willing to give us support but have not had any opportunity previously.

If Community members wish to participate in this group’s activities, or simply support the group’s objectives, please contact any of the following people for information.

Geoff Esler - Ph: 5682 2583
Ray Esler - Ph: 0418 556 924
Blair Donaldson - blair57@gmail.com
Janice Pouw - bagowind@dcsi.net.au