Answer blowin' in wind: New line to power

Newcastle Herald
Friday 25/1/2008 Page: 25

A BRIEFING on a proposed Upper Hunter wind farm has heard the Sydney-based developer believes its project is unlikely to have serious environmental effects, including noise and turbine flicker, on neighbouring properties. Pamada has proposed a $230 million renewable energy centre near Scone and director Mark Sydney and project director Mark Dixon briefed Upper Hunter Shire councillors on the site yesterday.

Mr Sydney said the company's environmental studies, which were unfinished, showed endangered species were present on the site, a 1900-hectare property 12 kilometres west of Scone. He said the project was not in a habitat corridor or a migratory site but it would require referral for consideration under federal environment laws. Investigations showed the impact of the project was "minimal and not unacceptable."

The company was considering organising a public information day late next month. Pamada wants to build the Kyoto Energy Park and generate enough electricity to supply 90,000 houses. The park includes 47 turbines, photovoltaic solar panels spread over a square kilometre and a closed-loop hydro power station. The project has been sent to Planning Minister Frank Sartor for approval.