www.thecourier.com.au
22 Jul, 2010
PLANNING is under way for another large-scale wind farm in the Pyrenees Shire. A proposed development of up to 60 wind turbines has been put forward, with industry service provider Transfield Services the main party behind the project. It is believed the turbines could generate 120MWs of power. The proposed turbines would be located on the ridges between Lexton and Amphitheatre, north-west of Ballarat. In a preliminary estimate by the Pyrenees Shire, it is thought the project could cost up to $240 million.
Transfield Services is yet to lodge the planning permit with the state government. Pyrenees Shire mayor David Clark, said only eight or nine landowners would be affected but they would be duly compensated. He said public knowledge of the plan remained limited for now, but that there would be public consultation in the coming weeks. Transfield Services project manager Nick Valentine said the planning process was still in its infancy and no official decisions had been made in regard to the project's cost or time frame.
"We've conducted a lot of technical studies and the like but haven't made any formal decisions as yet", he said. "It's absolutely critical we consult the community and give them as much information as we can". The news comes in light of a report completed on behalf of the Brumby government that found Victoria has the potential to rely solely on renewable energy. The Renewable Resources Victoria report found that Victoria had the potential to be powered by resources such as wind farms, solar and wave energy. A community meeting will be held on August 12 at the Amphitheatre Hall. Cr Clark encouraged all interested parties to attend.
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