White Rock Solar Farm – SSD Effective Date: 22/01/2018 Doc No. 7487 Environmental Version 6.0 Management Strategy Review Date: 22/01/2018
White Rock Solar Farm – SSD 7487 Environmental Management Strategy
APRIL 2018
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Document Control
Document No: WS-EV-PLN-0001
Document Name: White Rock Solar Farm – SSD 7487 Environmental Management Strategy
Current Revision No: 6.0
Original Created on: 28 April 2017
Last Updated: 3 April 2018
Status: Updated submission to DPE
Author/s: Medard Boutry – Senior Environmental Advisor
Reviewer: Jeffrey Bembrick – Development Compliance Manager Laura Jeffrey – Development Manager
Document History
No: Issue Date Description Author
1.0 22 March 2017 EMS sent to DPE M. Boutry
2.0 26 April 2017 Updated EMS sent to DPE M. Boutry
3.0 28 April 2017 Updated EMS sent to DPE (with RMS M. Boutry comments to TMP addressed)
4.0 22 January 2018 Updated post approval of Mod 1 M. Boutry
5.0 20 March 2018 Updated post approval of Mod1 (with M. Boutry DPE comments addressed)
6.0 3 April 2018 Updated post approval of Mod1 (with M. Boutry additional DPE comments addressed)
Approvals This plan must be endorsed by the Department of Planning and Environment Secretary prior to commencement of work on site. Acceptable approval methods are written correspondence or hard copy signature. Distribution List
Name Title Department
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Table of Contents
ACRONYMS ...... 6 TERMINOLOGY ...... 8 1 Project Background...... 10 1.1 Introduction ...... 10 1.2 Document Objectives ...... 10 1.3 Project Setting and Context ...... 11 1.4 Project Description ...... 15 1.5 Construction Activities ...... 16 1.6 Operational Activities ...... 17 1.7 Decommissioning Activities ...... 17 2 Environmental Planning ...... 17 2.1 Project Statutory Context ...... 17 2.2 Environmental Management Strategic Framework ...... 20 EMS Objectives and Targets...... 21 Users of this EMS ...... 23 2.3 Environmental Risk Assessment ...... 23 2.4 WRSF Management Structure ...... 27 3 Site Environmental Management Procedures ...... 27 3.1 Roles and Responsibilities ...... 27 WRSF Pty Ltd Project Manager ...... 28 EPC Contractor Project Manager ...... 28 EPC Contractor Construction Manager...... 29 EPC Contractor HSE Representative ...... 29 Foreman ...... 30 Project Team (including subcontractors) ...... 30 Development Compliance Manager (Goldwind) ...... 31 3.2 Training, Awareness and Competence ...... 32 Project Induction ...... 32 Pre-start Meetings ...... 33 Environmental Site Plan ...... 34 Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP) ...... 34 3.3 Environmental Project Hold Points ...... 34
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3.4 Environmental Reporting ...... 36 3.5 Incident and Emergency Management ...... 36 3.6 Complaints Handling and Dispute Resolution ...... 37 3.7 Stakeholder Engagement ...... 38 4 Monitoring, Audit and Review ...... 38 4.1 Environmental Performance Monitoring and Auditing ...... 38 4.2 Audits ...... 40 4.3 Non-Conformance Corrective Actions ...... 41 4.4 Continuous Improvement ...... 41 Revision of Strategies and Plans...... 41 4.5 Documentation and Record Keeping ...... 42 4.6 Access to Information ...... 42 5 Key Environmental Performance Management ...... 42 5.1 Biodiversity Management ...... 43 5.2 Heritage Management ...... 43 5.3 Visual and On-site Landscape Management ...... 43 Objectives and Targets ...... 43 Mitigation Measures ...... 44 5.4 Noise Management ...... 45 5.5 Traffic and Access Management ...... 45 5.6 Land Use Management ...... 46 5.7 Soil and Water Management ...... 46 Objectives and Targets ...... 46 Mitigation Measures ...... 47 Inspection and Monitoring ...... 51 5.8 Waste Management ...... 52 Objectives and Targets ...... 52 Mitigation Measures ...... 52 5.9 Air Quality Management ...... 53 Objectives and Targets ...... 53 Mitigation Measures ...... 54 5.10 Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Substances Management ...... 55 Objectives and Targets ...... 55 Mitigation Measures ...... 55 White Rock Solar Farm – SSD 7487 Environmental Management Strategy UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED. Page 4 of 107
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5.11 Bushfire Risk Management ...... 57 5.12 Emergency and Incident Management ...... 57 Appendix A Conditions of Approval ...... 58 Appendix B Flora and Fauna Management Plan ...... 79 Appendix C Weed Management Plan ...... 89 Appendix D Cultural Heritage Management Plan ...... 90 Appendix E Noise Management Plan ...... 100 Appendix F Landscaping Plan ...... 101 Appendix G Traffic Management Plan ...... 102 Appendix H Erosion and Sediment Control Plan ...... 103 Appendix I Emergency Response Plan ...... 104 Appendix J GWA Policy Statement on Handling Enquiries and Complaints ...... 105 Appendix K Procedure for Handling Enquiries and Complaints ...... 106 Appendix L WRSF Stakeholder Engagement Plan ...... 107
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ACRONYMS
AC Alternating current ACHA Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment BOM Australian Bureau of Meteorology BRMP Bush Fire Risk Management Plan CHMP Cultural Heritage Management Plan CoA Project Conditions of Approval (SSD 16_7487) Cwth Commonwealth DA Development Application dB Decibel dB(A) A measure of A-weighted (c.f.) sound levels. DECCW Refers to OEH DP&E Department of Planning and Environment (NSW) DPI Department of Primary Industries (NSW) DoE (Cwth) Department of Environment. EEC Endangered Ecological Community – as defined under relevant law applying to the proposal EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EIS Environmental Impact Statement EMFs Electric and Magnetic Fields EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cwth) EPA (NSW) Environment Protection Authority EPL Environment Protection Licence, issued under the POEO Act (c.f.) EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW) EP&A Regulation Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 (NSW) ESD Ecologically Sustainable Development GISC Glen Innes Severn Council GWA Goldwind Australia GWI Goldwind International Holdings (HK) Limited GWh Gigawatt hours ha hectare Heritage Act Heritage Act 1977 (NSW) Hz Hertz ISC Inverell Shire Council
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km kilometre LALC Local Aboriginal Land Council LCA Life Cycle Analysis, an assessment and quantification of the energy and material flows associated with a given process or product to identify the resource impacts of that process. LEP Local Environment Plan LGA Local Government Area LGCs Large-Scale Generation Certificates LRET Large-Scale Renewable Energy Target m metres NEFR National Electricity Forecasting Report NEM National Electricity Market NWBFMC North West Bush Fire Management Committee OEMP Operational Environmental Management Plan MNES Matters of National Environmental Significance, under the EPBC Act (c.f.) MRET Mandatory Renewable Energy Target MW Megawatt MWh Megawatt hours NW Act Noxious Weeds Act 1993 (NSW) NSW New South Wales OEH (NSW) Office of Environment and Heritage, formerly Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW) POEO Act Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (NSW) POEO Waste Reg Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2014 Proponent The entity proposing this development, in this instance, WRSFPL. PV Photovoltaic RBL Rating Background Level - the level of background noise RE Act Renewable Energy (Electricity) Act 2000 (Commonwealth) REC Renewable Energy Certificate RET Renewable Energy Target RFS NSW Rural Fire Service RMS (NSW) Roads and Maritime Services, formerly Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) Roads Act Roads Act 1993 (NSW) SEPP State Environmental Planning Policy (NSW) SEPP State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (NSW) (Infrastructure) SRD SEPP State Environmental Planning Policy (State and Regional Development) 2011 (NSW)
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SIS Species Impact Statement SSD State Significant Development, as defined by Section 89C of the EP&A Act (c.f.) TSC Act Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (NSW) V Volts WMP Waste Management Plan WRSF White Rock Solar Farm as defined in Terminology WRSF Project White Rock Solar Farm Project as defined in Terminology WRSFPL White Rock Solar Farm Pty Ltd (the Proponent) WRWF White Rock Wind Farm WRWFPL White Rock Wind Farm Pty Ltd (WRWF Proponent)
TERMINOLOGY
WRSF Project The WRSF Project comprises: • The infrastructure for the White Rock Solar Farm located within the WRSF Development Envelope (refer “WRSF Development Envelope” below) but excludes any “Approved WRSF WRWF Infrastructure” being White Rock Wind Farm
infrastructure approved under the Part 3A Project Approval
(MP10_0160, as modified) (“WRWF ”). The WRSF was subject of an EIS and the Development Application SSD 16_7487 has been approved; and
WRSF Shared • Approved WRWF Infrastructure that is proposed to be shared Infrastructure by the White Rock Wind Farm and White Rock Solar Farm (“WRSF Shared Infrastructure”) for the purposes of enabling the export of the electricity generated by the White Rock Solar Farm. The WRWF Infrastructure is approved under the Part 3A Project Approval (MP10_0160, as modified).
WRSF Development The WRSF Development Envelope is approximately 150 ha and Envelope includes the solar array, power conversion blocks, fencing, temporary construction facilities, permanent storage shed, solar monitoring equipment, WRSF access tracks and WRSF 33kV underground cabling to connect WRSF to the WRWF collection circuits and substation. The WRSF Development Envelope is the area assessed in the WRSF EIS and, within which WRSF Infrastructure would be located. It is a larger area than the WRSF Development Footprint to allow some design flexibility regarding the final infrastructure placement.
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WRSF Development The WRSF Development Footprint is a sub-area of the WRSF Footprint Development Envelope which is proposed to be approximately 50ha in
size and includes:
Solar infrastructure • indicative groups of solar panels and power conversion equipment as shown in Figure 3 within the area bounded by
the “Development Footprint fence” (shown in yellow); and
Solar ancillaries • the “WRSF access track” and the “Indicative WRSF 33kV cable route” or “Alternative WRSF 33kV cable route” as shown in Figure 3.
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1 Project Background
1.1 Introduction The White Rock Solar Farm (WRSF) Project includes the construction and operation of a solar farm approximately 20 kilometres (km) west of Glen Innes, in northern NSW. The WRSF project was approved in June 2016. The WRSF is located within and adjacent to the White Rock Wind Farm (WRWF) project area as shown in Figure 1. The two projects would form part of a hybrid wind/solar facility. The proponent is White Rock Solar Farm Pty Limited (WRSFPL), a subsidiary of Goldwind International.
Figure 1. White Rock Solar Farm Project Development Envelope (yellow outline) and geographical relationship to White Rock Wind Farm (red outline) 1.2 Document Objectives This Environmental Management Strategy (EMS) has been developed to address the conditions of approval (CoA) for the WRSF Project and serves as the primary guiding document for the management of environmental matters during design, construction, operation and decommissioning of the WRSF. The objectives for this EMS document are:
• to comply with requirements of the Project conditions of approval (CoA1 of Schedule 4) • to be succinct and easy to follow by the various users
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• to clearly define the relevant issues, risks and compliance requirements • to provide practical and effective management measures • to be auditable. This EMS applies to works within the WRSF Development Envelope (see Terminology section) and that works outside of this area but within the broader WRWF Project Area would be subject to the WRWF Construction Environmental Management Plan and associated sub-plans. This would likely apply for certain 33kv underground cabling works connecting to the substation.
1.3 Project Setting and Context The project is located primarily within the Glen Innes Severn local government area (LGA), with a small part of the site within the Inverell LGA. The project area is located on a 150 hectare site situated within a larger Development Envelope (see Figure 3). The WRSF is located in the south-eastern part of the Border Rivers-Gwydir catchment that is part of the Murray Darling Basin. The WRSF Development Envelope slopes to the northeast towards Wellingrove Creek that is within the Severn River sub-catchment. The Severn River is approximately 30 kilometres north. There are no major rivers or creeks within the Development Envelope. Surface elevations within the WRSF Development Envelope range between 970 m and 1030 m above sea level (ASL). The terrain comprises a ridge line along the western boundary of the Development Envelope which slopes into a relatively flat area within the valley floor. The land has been substantially cleared but retains areas of remnant woodland. The site has previously been used for sheep and cattle grazing. There are some areas of remnant native vegetation in the western and north-eastern portions of the project site, including Blakely’s Red Gum-Yellow Box Grassy Woodland endangered ecological community (EEC). The WRSF is located on several land holdings owned by one landholder. The access track to the solar farm and the cable route to the substation involve four different landowners. There are 12 residences located within 4 km of the project site, including two within 1 km of the site. Property details are shown in Figure 2 and at Appendix I. The electricity generated from the WRSF would be transported to the substation developed as part of the WRWF via 33kV underground cabling. The 33kV cable back to the WRWF substation would be co- located within the impact footprint of the WRWF collection cables. The indicative layout of the WRSF including the Development Envelope and environmental constraints is shown in Figure 3. The preliminary layout of the solar farm is provided at Figure 4.
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Figure 2. WRWF Stage 1 and WRSF Landowner Map
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Ecological enhancement areas
Figure 3. WRSF layout overview
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Figure 4 – Final Layout Plan of solar farm
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1.4 Project Description The WRSF project involves the construction of a new solar farm with a capacity of 20 megawatts (MW) AC. It also encompasses any future upgrades, replacement or decommissioning of infrastructure and equipment. The WRSF would be located within and adjacent to the project area for the WRWF, and the site would be accessed from Gwydir Highway along access tracks established for the wind farm and for the solar farm. The WRSF will share various facilities with the WRWF project including access tracks and the substation. The major components of the project are summarised in Table 1 and depicted in Figure 3 and Figure 4.
Table 1. Summary of project components and description
Aspect Description The project includes: Project summary • approximately 75,000 solar panels supported by a galvanised steel mounting framework fixed to piles • power conversion blocks including inverters, step-up transformers and switchgear • internal wiring and electrical connections • an underground 33 kV cable to link the solar farm output to the WRWF collection circuits and 33/132kV substation • approximately 800m of internal access tracks for access to the site • a permanent site building (12 m x 12 m) • temporary construction facility and laydown area • ongoing grazing of the site during operation. Project area 150 hectares Development Envelope
Site access The site would be accessed from Gwydir Highway along tracks developed for the WRWF (~700m) and a new track to be developed between the wind farm and solar farm sites (~800m). No road upgrades are required as the upgrade of the intersection with the Gwydir Hwy has already been completed as part of the WRWF project.
Operational life The expected operational life of the solar farm is 25 years, however the project may also involve replacement of equipment and infrastructure. The project also includes decommissioning at the end of the project, which would involve removing all infrastructure • A total construction period of approximately 6-10 months, including Construction up to 16 truck and 52 other vehicle movements per day during the period and hours peak construction period. Construction is anticipated to commence during Q2, 2017. • Construction hours would be limited to: Monday to Friday 7 am - 6 pm, and
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Saturday 8 am - 1 pm. • The solar farm would operate during times when there is sunlight. Hours of operation • Operations and maintenance by site staff would be undertaken primarily during the day, with occasional electrical switch out works to be undertaken at night. Employment Up to 100 employees during construction and one employee during operation
1.5 Construction Activities Construction activities associated with key project components are summarised in Table 2. Table 2. Key WRSF infrastructure components and associated construction activities
Component Construction activities
Internal access tracks Upgrade existing farm track and establish new tracks around the solar infrastructure up to approximately five metres width including drainage. Once construction is completed, the tracks would be formed for long term use and disturbed areas adjacent to completed tracks would be rehabilitated.
Site compound and laydown Earthworks for office and laydown areas and drainage structures. area
Solar panel support Install posts (pile driven) structures Attach support structures to footings or posts. Attach low voltage DC wiring ready for attachment to panels.
Solar panels Mount panels on support structure, attach wiring.
Power Conversion Blocks Earthworks/formwork for footings or pads. (inverters, step up Footings installed for inverters and transformers, mount inverters transformers and and transformers on footings. switchgear) Connect DC electrical wiring from solar panels. Install/connect 33 kV cables
Connection to WRWF Trenching (disturbance corridor up to approximately ten metres collection circuit wide), laying of 33 kV cable and communications lines and backfill trench.
Small permanent site Rehabilitation of disturbed areas adjacent to completed tracks and building complete drainage works.
Site rehabilitation Concrete footings for 12 m x 12m site building.
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Construct building, for storage of components.
Fencing of WRSF project Excavate and form footings (concrete). area Install posts and attach mesh.
1.6 Operational Activities WRSF’s operational life is anticipated to be 25 years. After this time, components may be decommissioned and removed from the site, or the solar farm replaced/upgraded for continued operation. Operational activities would include monitoring and facility maintenance, such as panel cleaning or replacement and vegetation maintenance, and the management of faults and repairs. Grazing by sheep may be used as a ground cover management strategy under and around the array. 1.7 Decommissioning Activities During the decommissioning phase, all aboveground infrastructure would be removed from the site. Infrastructure and materials removed from the site would be recycled or otherwise disposed of at approved facilities. All areas of soil disturbed during decommissioning would be rehabilitated, appropriate to the existing species composition in consultation with and in consideration of landowner requirements.
2 Environmental Planning
2.1 Project Statutory Context The WRSF project was approved in June 2016 under Part 4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (Application Number: SSD 7487). The project is classified as State Significant Development under the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) (State and Regional Development) 2011. Modification 1 was approved on 21 December 2018 for minor changes to the 33kV underground cable route and to the temporary carparking arrangement. The project approval contains a number of Conditions of Approval (CoA) which must be met. These are included in Appendix A, identifying how each CoA is to be addressed. This EMS applies to works within the WRSF Development Envelope and that works outside of this area but within the broader WRWF Project Area would be subject to the WRWF Construction Environmental Management Plan and associated sub-plans. This would likely apply for certain 33kv underground cabling works. A summary of environmental legal requirements and associated approvals / permits and licences that relate to the Project is provided in Table 3.
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Table 3. Summary of relevant legislation requirements
Legislation Summary Relevance to Project and requisite approval / permit / licences
Commonwealth Applicable to impacts on No MNES affected by project. Referral Environment Protection and matters of national under EPBC Act not required but to Biodiversity Conservation environmental significance remove any doubt, has been prepared Act 1999 (MNES) and submitted (EPBC 2017/7898).
Environmental Planning and The WRSF Project is approved This EMS addresses CoA 1 of Schedule 4. Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A by the DPE under Part 4 Modifications only to be undertaken Act) (Division 4.1) of the EP&A Act. after the completion and approval of CoA are required to be appropriate environmental impact complied with for the Project. assessment or other documentation Any future modifications to agreed to by DPE, prior to construction the Project Approval come of the modified/varied Project under 96 of the EP&A Act. component(s).
Protection of the Section 148 of this Act An EPL is not required as solar electricity Environment Operations Act requires notification of generation is not a scheduled activity. 1997 (POEO Act) pollution incidents. WRWF Project Area is subject to EPL 20665. EPL 20665 may be varied to Section 120 of this Act exclude the WRSF from EPL 20665. provides that it an offence to pollute waters. EPA must be notified of any incidents resulting in actual or potential material Schedule 1 of the POEO Act environmental harm. describes activities for which an Environment Protection Licence is required. Relates to construction In relation to motor vehicles, the Protection of the activities with the potential Regulation deals with the Environment Operations to impact on air quality following matters: (Clean Air) Regulation 2002 - The emission of air impurities, including excessive smoke from motor vehicles - The compulsory fitting and maintenance of antipollution devices, and exemptions from these requirements - The method of transfer of petrol into a vehicle's fuel tank. Deals with the listing of Threatened Species threatened species, CoA 7 of Schedule 3 specifies the Conservation 1995 populations and maximum area of Endangered Ecological communities, the declaration Community (EEC) that can be disturbed of critical habitat, recovery under the project approval. This must plans, threat abatement not be exceeded. Disturbance should be plans, licensing, Species avoided or minimised as much as Impact Statements, feasible.
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Legislation Summary Relevance to Project and requisite approval / permit / licences biodiversity certification and biobanking.
Contaminated Land Establishes a process for Under Clause 60 of the CLM Act, a Management Act 1997 (CLM investigation and (where person whose activities have Act) appropriate) remediation of contaminated land or an owner of land land where contamination whose land has been contaminated is presents a significant risk of required to notify the EPA in writing as harm to human health or soon as they become aware of the some other aspect of the contamination. environment.
Water Management Act Permits and approvals The Department of Primary Industries 2000 (WM Act) required for water extraction (DPI) – Water confirmed that a from natural waterways. Controlled Activity Approval is not required for works within the drainage Controlled Activity permits depressions in the project area. required for works within sensitive waterway environments.
Fisheries Management The FM Act sets out to No key fish habitat within Development conserve fish stocks and key Envelope and no additional permits Act 1994 fish habitats, threatened required. species, populations and ecological communities of fish and marine vegetation and biological diversity.
Heritage Act 1977 The Act aims to conserve No heritage items identified within the heritage values. Under the Development Envelope. Heritage Act 1977 it is an offence to disturb an item of State heritage significance without the consent of the Heritage Office.
National Park and Wildlife The Act is a broad piece of The WRSF Development Envelope is not Act 1974 legislation that covers a in or in the vicinity of any protected number of different areas areas as defined in the Act. including reserving lands, An Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit managing certain reserved (AHIP) under Section 90 of the NPW Act lands, the protection of is not required for SSD (Section 89J EP&A Aboriginal objects and places, Act). Refer to the Cultural Heritage the protection of fauna and Management Plan (Appendix D) in the the protection of native event that unanticipated heritage items vegetation. are discovered.
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Legislation Summary Relevance to Project and requisite approval / permit / licences
Dangerous Goods Act Relates to storage, handling WRWF contractors to obtain licenses and licensing of storage where storage of dangerous goods for (WorkCover – storage and/or transport of construction is in licensable quantities. licence) prescribed quantities of (EPA- transport licence) dangerous goods.
Roads Act 1993 Section 138 consent required The WRWF project has a Traffic and for erection of a structure, or Access Management Plan (CTAMP) carrying out of work in, on or prepared in consultation with the RMS, over a public road or digging Glen Innes Severn Council, Inverell up or disturbance of the Council and Police, to obtain required surface of the road. approvals. The intersection of the Gwydir Highway with the WRWF access track is being established as part of the WRWF construction.
Noxious Weeds Act Control noxious weeds on Weed management is required under lands under the Projects the CoA. The Weed Management Plan 1993 control, in accordance with (Appendix C) includes provisions for the relevant control categories management of weeds. (s.13). Vehicle hygiene procedures also required.
National Greenhouse and Systems for reporting energy WRSF to determine NGERS reporting Energy Reporting Act 2007. consumption and production requirements for energised facility. data, greenhouse emissions, abatement actions.
Crown Lands Act 1989 The objective of the Crown Licence (R1 523495) has been obtained Lands Act is to ensure that as part of the WRWF project for Crown land is managed for construction of an access track over a the benefit of the people of Crown Reserve near the access point New South Wales. from the Gwydir Highway. DPI-Land has advised that the paper road which traverses the project area is in the process of being removed. A temporary licence to construct over the paper road may be required if the removal of the road cannot occur prior to the commencement of construction.
2.2 Environmental Management Strategic Framework Goldwind is committed to work health and safety, minimising environmental impact and eliminating pollution, and the supply and maintenance of quality products and services. Goldwind has developed
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White Rock Solar Farm – SSD Effective Date: 22/01/2018 Doc No. 7487 Environmental Version 6.0 Management Strategy Review Date: 22/01/2018 a Management System designed to provide a comprehensive framework to address these requirements and to ensure that all relevant personnel assist Goldwind in meeting its commitments. The Goldwind Australia (GWA) Management System manages Health, Safety, Environment and other functions through a documented set of plans, actions and procedures to manage risk in an appropriate way. Goldwind Australia has been independently externally accredited by DAkkS for the following standards: • AS/NZS ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System • AS/NZS 9001:2015 Quality Management System • OHSAS 18001:2007 Occupational Health and Safety Management System
EMS Objectives and Targets
The objectives and targets for the implementation of the EMS are identified in Table 4 with objectives and targets for each environmental aspect identified in the sections that follow and associated sub- plans. The purpose of setting overall objectives and targets for the EMS is to enable the construction works to meet a defined level of performance against identified criteria.
Table 4. EMS Implementation Objectives and Targets
Item Objective Target Documentation Records of audits, Weekly Environmental Construction to be undertaken in 100% compliance with CoA. site inspections. compliance accordance with the CoA.
100% compliance. Legal compliance Compliance with all Records of audits, environmental legislative zero reportable incidents. Weekly site inspections. requirements. Effective implementation of the 100% compliance with Weekly site inspections. Good environmental EMS and sub-plans. mitigation measures, practice EMS reviews. monitoring and reporting
requirements. Zero reportable incidents.
Prompt investigation and implementation of corrective actions. Zero community Complaints register. Environmental Minimise environmental complaints attributable to complaints complaints and respond to all in a The WRSF Project will be the project. timely and appropriate manner. included as an agenda item 100% compliance with on the WRWF Community complaints response Consultative Committee timeframes. (CCC) Meetings and minutes.
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100% compliance with complaints investigation and close-out. Zero reportable Incident notification forms. Incidents Prevent potential of actual environmental incidents. material harm to the environment Incident tracking register or and appropriately manage all 100% compliance with program. environmental incidents. incident reporting,
investigation, implementation of corrective actions and close out requirements. Weekly inspection records. Non-conformances Minimise, avoid and/or 100% compliance with appropriately manage all timeframes for Records of audits Records environmental non- investigation and of corrective actions conformances. implementation of corrective actions. 100% compliance with Records of audits Audits and Undertake environmental timeframes and coverage inspections inspections and audits in a timely Records of corrective of inspections and audits. manner actions. 100% completion of follow- up actions to address identified issues. All staff to be appropriately Induction records. Environmental All staff to be aware of their inducted prior to training and environmental obligations and be Training and pre-start commencing works on-site inductions competent in relation to their meeting records. and have relevant environmental responsibilities. competencies.
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Users of this EMS
This EMS and accompanying management plans has been developed to cater for a range of users. Key stakeholders and their function in relation to the EMS are outlined in Table 5. Table 5. EMS audience and function
EMS Audience Purpose / Function
Government Departments (i.e. NSW To attain satisfaction that the project is designed, constructed and Department of Planning & Environment; operated in line with the Conditions of Approval and relevant laws, Roads and Maritime Service; NSW Office of policies, standards and guidelines. Environment and Heritage; Rural Fire Service; and Fire & Rescue NSW)
WRWF Pty Ltd Owners Project audits
Goldwind Australia Corporate HSEQ and Project audits Development Compliance Managers
EPC Construction Manager / HSE Reference point to develop task-specific documentation (e.g. Inductions, Representative Pre-start meetings, SWMS) and for regular site checks and audits.
Construction personnel Reference point for project environmental conditions that must be adhered
2.3 Environmental Risk Assessment This section shall be used to identify environmental risks associated with the WRSF Project. The consequence criteria, likelihood criteria and risk matrix are provided below. Consequence (C) Criteria:
Level Consequence Description
Insignificant No measurable environmental effects
Minor Minor short term environmental effects
Moderate Limited but medium term environmental effects
Major Major but recoverable environmental effects
Catastrophic Permanent environmental damage
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Likelihood (L) Criteria:
Level Likelihood Description
Rare The event will only occur in exceptional circumstances
Unlikely The event is not likely to occur
Possible The event may occur
Likely The event is likely to occur
Almost Certain The event is expected to occur in most circumstances
Risk Matrix
Likelihood Consequence
Insignificant Minor Moderate Major Catastrophic
Almost certain M M H E E
Likely M M M H E
Possible L M M M H
Unlikely L L M M M
Rare L L L M M
Low = L Medium = M High = H Extreme = E
The project environmental risk assessment relating to the key environmental issues identified for the WRSF Project are summarized in Table 6.
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Table 6. Project Environmental Risk Analysis
Aspect / Activity Potential Impacts Initial Risk Mitigation Residual Risk
Consequence Likelihood Risk Consequence Likelihood Risk
Development of access tracks • Over-clearing of native • Implementation of Environmental Moderate Almost Minor Likely and fencing vegetation (EEC) Management Strategy (EMS) and Certain High • clearing / grubbing • Erosion and sedimentation sub plans • transport gravel • Loss of water quality • Preparation and implementation • form roads • Leaks and spills of Environmental Site Plan and • create drainage • Introduction / spread of weeds supporting ESCP
• apply road surfacing • Air quality issues (e.g. dust)
• install fencing around site • Fire / bushfire
and around EECs • Noise at neighbouring receivers edium
• Encounter unexpected heritage M
Trenching for 33kV cable item • Implementation of EMS and sub Moderate Likely Minor Unlikely
route plans Low High • clearing / grubbing cable • Preparation and implementation route of Environmental Site Plan and • excavate trench supporting ESCP • install sand and cables
• backfill • restore surface and revegetate
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Site establishment • Traffic disturbance / accidents • Implementation of EMS and sub Moderate Almost Minor Likely m • clearing / grubbing • Over-clearing of native plans Certain High
• transport and installation of vegetation (EEC) • Preparation and implementation Mediu site office & facilities • Introduction / spread of weeds of Environmental Site Plan and • delivery of equipment, • Impacts to local amenity (e.g. supporting ESCP plant and materials noise, dust & water quality) • establish power supply thereby damaging stakeholder • movement of vehicles and relationships the transport of personnel to • Erosion and sedimentation and from site • Leaks and spills
• Fire / bushfire
Installation of solar panel • Over-clearing of native • Implementation of EMS and sub Moderate Likely Minor Possible posts, panels and PCBs vegetation (EEC) plans
• pile driving of panel- • Excessive noise at neighbouring • Preparation and implementation Medium support posts sensitive receivers Medium of Environmental Site Plan and • Movement of construction • Protection of drainage lines supporting ESCP vehicles / plant and personnel • Encounter unexpected heritage
item
Operation of WRSF • Spread of weeds • Implementation of EMS and sub Moderate Possible Insignifican Possible
•Loss/damage of biodiversity plans Low t values (e.g. deteriorating EEC) • Erosion and sedimentation Medium • Leaks and spills • Fire / Bushfire
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2.4 WRSF Management Structure The project organisational structure is depicted in Figure 5. WRSF Pty Ltd as the proponent would allocate a Project Manager and would oversee the development of the project and undertake functions such as establishing landowner agreements and undertaking community engagement. The EPC Contractor would be responsible for the engineering, procurement and construction of the project and would be the nominated ‘person conducting business or undertaking’ (PCBU) for the development of the site (see section 5 of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011). It is noted however, that this EMS applies ONLY to works within the WRSF Development Envelope and that works outside of this area but within the broader WRWF Project Area would be subject to the WRWF Construction Environmental Management Plan and associated sub-plans. This would likely apply for a large portion of the 33kv underground cabling works.
WRSF Pty Ltd (Proponent) Landowner agreements Project Manager
and
relationships Community Engagement EPC Contractor Plan (WRWF & Regulators and WRSF)
Statutory requirement s Sub-contractors
Figure 5. Organisational chart for the WRSF Project development
3 Site Environmental Management Procedures
3.1 Roles and Responsibilities Environmental compliance is the responsibility of all Project and site personnel. For clarity and effective coordination of the EMS, specific roles and responsibilities for environmental performance and compliance during the construction of WRSF have been allocated to the positions listed below and shown in the project roles and responsibility chart at Figure 6. Contact details for key personnel are provided in Table 7.
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WRSF Pty Ltd Corporate Support (Development Compliance + WRSF Pty Ltd Project Manager HSEQ)
EPC Contractor Corporate EPC Contractor Project Manager Support
EPC Contractor Construction Manager
Project team including Foreman HSE Representative subcontractors
Figure 6. On-site roles and responsibility chart
WRSF Pty Ltd Project Manager
Oversight of the WRSF project on behalf of the proponent. The WRSF Pty Ltd Project Manager is responsible for ensuring mechanisms are in place by the EPC Contractor to manage all environmental matters in a compliant manner. Coordinate inspections and audits. Liaison with community in conjunction with WRWF Community Engagement Representative. A construction and operation protocol will be established to formalise arrangements between the WRWF Project and the WRSF Project.
EPC Contractor Project Manager
The EPC Contractor Project Manager is responsible for ensuring that appropriate resources are made available and deployed to implement the EMS and to support required systems, procedures and environmental objectives. Responsibilities include: • ensure implementation of suitable inductions; • promote the development of an appropriate culture to support environmental objectives and environmental management measures; • implement work practices that reduce the risk of environmental harm; • effective management of all operations, employees and contractors;
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• facilitate arrangements and support for performance audits by suitably qualified and experienced persons and signing off on findings and corrective actions of internal and independent audits; • reviewing and ensuring all necessary reporting and notifications have taken place by the EPC Contractor • as required participate in inspections and initiate actions to rectify non-conformances; • participate/support significant environmental incident investigations; • participate in environmental meetings and programs as required; • assist in resolving disputes which may arise in respect to environmental management (if required); and • support liaison with community in conjunction with WRWF/WRSF Community Engagement Representative and WRSF Project Manager.
EPC Contractor Construction Manager
The EPC Construction Manager is responsible for ensuring that all staff, contractors and visitors are site inducted/trained and managed in such a way as to effectively implement the EMS and to support required systems, procedures and environmental objectives. Some specific responsibilities include: • promoting the development of an appropriate culture to support environmental objectives and environmental management measures; • management of site environmental controls; • implementation of work practices that reduce the risk of environmental harm; • participate in inspections and initiate actions to rectify non-conformances; • participate/support significant environmental incident investigations to be led by the HSE Representative for the relevant works area; • participate in environmental meetings and programs as required; and • assist in resolving disputes which may arise in respect to environmental management (if required).
EPC Contractor HSE Representative
Within the EPC contractor work scope the EPC HSE Representative will be responsible for the day to day implementation of the EMS and sub-plans, in respect of the works applicable to their contract jurisdictions, including: • preview of planned works and controls, notify contractors of unsatisfactory controls and required corrective action; • review of ESCPs; • completion of site environmental inspections
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• support WRSF audits through provision of required information and availability for audit interviews; • coordinate contractor response to corrective action requests; • responsible for completion of environmental incidents and complaints investigations as required and reporting to EPC Construction Manager; • Regularly consult with local emergency services (e.g. RFS) to ensure familiarity with the WRFS Project if there is an emergency at the site; • coordinate the involvement of environmental specialists as the need arises throughout the construction phase; and • conduct or arrange for required environmental monitoring and reporting.
Foreman
The environmental responsibilities of the Foreman include (but are not limited to) the following: • Undertake environmental duties as defined by the EPC Construction Manager, EPC HSE Representative or Project/Site engineers. • Control field works and implement/maintain effective environmental controls. • Where required, undertake environmental risk assessment of works prior to commencement. • Ensure site activities comply with SWMS and environmental requirements and relevant records are kept. • Ensure all site workers are site inducted prior to commencement of works. • Attend to any spills or environmental incidents that may occur on site. • Immediately report to the Project Manager and HSE Representative any activity that has resulted, or has the potential to result, in an environmental incident. • Stop activities where there is an actual or potential risk of harm to the environment and advise the Project Manager and HSE Representative.
Project Team (including subcontractors)
• Comply with the relevant requirements of the EMS and other environmental documentation • Participate in the project/site induction program. • Report any environmental incidents to the relevant Foreman immediately or as soon as practicable if reasonable steps can be adopted to control the incident. • Undertake remedial action as required to ensure environmental controls are maintained in good working order.
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• Stop activities where there is an actual or potential risk of harm to the environment and advise the Project Manager, Foreman or HSE Representative.
Development Compliance Manager (Goldwind)
The environmental responsibilities of the Goldwind Development Compliance Manager include (but are not limited to) the following: • Support the project with specialist environmental advice and services, including: • assistance with interactions with regulatory authorities • assistance with investigation of environmental incidents • assistance with engagement and management of environmental consultants • arrange and coordinate program of audits for completion by suitably qualified and experienced persons and signing off on findings and corrective actions of internal and independent audits • as required participate in inspections and initiate actions to rectify non-conformances • participate/support significant environmental incident investigations • participate in environmental meetings and programs as required • assist in resolving disputes which may arise in respect to environmental management (if required) • arrange any modifications of Project Approval.
Table 7. Project Contact Details for key environmental personnel
Role Responsible Person Contact Detail
WRSF Pty Ltd Project Manager Dan Ford 0438 635 032
EPC Contractor Project Manager Andrew Timms 0428 272 228
EPC Contractor Construction Manager Darrell van Bruchem 0447 307 244
EPC Contractor HSE Representative James Thomas 0457 083 590
Goldwind Australia Development Jeff Bembrick 0499 156 665 Compliance Manager
Goldwind Australia HSEQ Corporate Leo Holmes 0491 214 343 Manager
These contact details shall be displayed on the Project Site HSE Noticeboard.
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3.2 Training, Awareness and Competence Training will be undertaken in the following forms: • project induction • pre-start meetings. Records of induction and training will be kept including the training carried out, dates, participant names and trainer details. Inductees will be required to sign-off that they have been informed of the environmental issues and that they understand their responsibilities. Details are provided in Table 8. Table 8. Induction and training requirements
Training Item Frequency Participants Record
Environmental Initial inductions and All inducted staff on site Hard copy on site. Management Strategy following variations to Electronic register of (EMS) project inductions
Project Induction Initial inductions (prior to All staff on site Hard copy on site. commencing site work) Electronic register of and following variations inductions to project
Pre-start Meeting Daily All staff involved in that Hard copy on site particular task
Project Induction
Prior to working on site, construction personnel and sub-contractors will undertake a project induction that outlines environmental and other requirements. The induction will address a range of issues including, but not limited to: • the WRSF EMS • Project Conditions of Approval and any other relevant requirements • legal and regulatory requirements including duty of care and potential consequences of infringements • environmental responsibilities including incident reporting • overview of environmental site plan. Include identification of sensitive areas or items including endangered ecological communities, waterways, heritage, weeds and noise sensitive locations • identification of boundaries for vegetation clearing • designated locations and procedures for washdown, refuelling and maintenance areas for vehicles, plant and equipment • emergency plans and incident management including the use of spill kits and fire-fighting equipment • reporting processes for environmental harm or environmental incidents
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• roles and responsibilities in achieving conformance with environmental policies and requirements, including emergency preparedness and response requirements • procedures for responding to landholder and community enquiries and/or complaints • identification and management of non-conformances with relevant statutory requirements and this EMS. All personnel working on-site will be expected to have undertaken appropriate environmental training to achieve a level of awareness and competence appropriate to their assigned activities. In addition to the site induction, targeted environmental awareness training will be provided to individuals or groups of workers with a specific authority or responsibility for environmental management or those undertaking an activity with a high risk of environmental impact.
Pre-start Meetings
Daily pre-start meetings will help to ensure that relevant information for current activities is communicated to the workforce and that feedback can be provided on issues of interest or concern. Environmental input to pre-start meetings and specific environmental training will generally be prepared and delivered by the EPC Contractor HSE Representative and/or Foreman. Training topics are to be delivered to provide refresher information on the environmental induction topics and associated environmental procedures. In the event of environmental near misses or incidents or changes to procedures that could result in changed levels of environmental risks daily pre-start meetings or environmental training sessions may be used to deliver updates. Environmental Training topics would likely include: • vehicle hygiene and pest plant/weed management protocols • work methods and efficient use of plant and materials • waste management, minimisation and recycling • noise and vibration minimisation • flora and fauna protection and management • dust control • protecting waterways and riparian zones • wastewater control • identification/protection of indigenous/non-indigenous heritage items • emergency response procedures • wet weather procedures and inspections • landowner and community engagement to convey key messages on the project, manage landowner interactions and allow any issues/complaints to be raised and discussed.
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Environmental Site Plan
The Environmental Site Plan indicates the location of specific environmental control measures, including stockpiling locations, concrete discharge chute flick wet wipe locations waste area, spill kit locations, parking and no-go areas, fuel and chemical storage and the emergency muster point. The Environmental Site Plan shall be displayed on the Site HSE Noticeboard, along with the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan.
Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP)
ESCP/s are to be prepared for the construction area or areas detailing individual control measures at each location. ESCPs should be prepared in line with the mitigation measures provided in Section 5.7.2 and in accordance with OEH’s Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils and Construction (Landcom, 2004) manual and associated guidance materials including: • Volume 1: Blue book • Volume 2A: Installation of services • Volume 2C: Unsealed roads • Erosion and sediment control on unsealed roads These documents are available online: http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/stormwater/publications.htm ESCPs are living documents and should be updated in line with inspections and reviews of the effectiveness of the controls (e.g. if inspections identify that additional controls are required). Separate ESCPs may be prepared for different construction areas, such as: • Access track • Construction area and laydown area • Construction compound area • Solar arrays on stable ground • Solar arrays within drainage lines The first iteration of each ESCP shall be endorsed by the WRWF Development Compliance Manager or suitably qualified delegate. 3.3 Environmental Project Hold Points Environmental project hold points are described in Table 9.
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Table 9. Environmental Project Hold Points
Hold Point Source of Requirement Responsibility for Release of Hold Point action
Construction shall not commence until CoA (Schedule 2, No.5) GWA Development Compliance final layout plans have been submitted to Manager the Secretary of DPE
Prior to the commencement of CoA (Schedule 2, No.7) GWA Development Compliance operations or following the upgrades of Manager any solar panels or ancillary infrastructure, the Applicant shall submit work as executed plans of the development to the Department
Construction, operations, upgrading or CoA (Schedule 2, No.8) GWA Development Compliance decommissioning shall not commence Manager until WRSF Pty Ltd notify the Department in writing of the date of commencement of the relevant phase of the development (including any staging).
Construction shall not commence until CoA (Schedule 3, No.3) Completed December 2016 the intersection of the Gwydir Highway with the WRWF access track has been upgraded to the satisfaction of RMS
Construction shall not commence until CoA (Schedule 3 and 4 – Secretary of DPE the EMS and associated sub-plans have multiple) been approved by Secretary of DPE
Out of Hours Work: Unless the Secretary CoA (Schedule 3, No.11) Secretary of DPE agrees otherwise, the Applicant shall only undertake construction, upgrading or decommissioning activities on site within the approved hours of work (refer to exemptions in CoA). An Out of Hours Work (OOHW) Protocol will be established and submitted to the Secretary should OOHW be sought.
Cultural Heritage Discovery: Following CoA (Schedule 3, No.16-18) OEH, Heritage Division the discovery of an item of cultural heritage significance or human remains, no work is to recommence in the vicinity of the find until approval is given by the regulator
If removal of a hollow-bearing tree is Flora and Fauna GWA Development Compliance required, approval from the GWA Management Plan Manager (or delegate) Development Compliance Manager must (Appendix B)
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be obtained prior to the removal occurring.
Prior to construction commencing in Section 3.3.4 GWA Development Compliance particular areas, a relevant ESCP for that Manager (or delegate) area shall be endorsed by the GWA Development Compliance Manager
3.4 Environmental Reporting The EPC Contractor is to supply a weekly report including HSE breakdown and works progress update to WRSFPL. The Monthly Reports by the EPC Contractor HSE Representative will include details of environmental performance and compliance and detail of any incidents and corrective action. The WRSFPL Project Manager is responsible for reviewing and ensuring all necessary reporting and notifications have taken place including: • internal environmental performance reporting; and • statutory reporting and notifications (in conjunction with Development Compliance Manager)
3.5 Incident and Emergency Management The Project Emergency Response Plan (ERP) is provided at Appendix I. All environmental incidents shall be managed in accordance with the ERP. The relevant plans outline the reporting procedures. All pollution incidents or any incident where material harm to the environment is caused or threatened shall be reported immediately (and without delay) to the WRWFPL Project Manager and the relevant authorities in accordance with the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. Key agency contacts are provided at Table 10. Table 10. Key agency contacts for environmental reporting
Agency Contact Details
EPA Environment Line (immediate contact) 131 555 Ph: 1300 066 055 or The Ministry of Health via Tamworth office of the Public Health Unit Tamworth PHU (Hunter/New England LHD) Locked Mail Bag 9783, NEMC NSW 2348 Phone: (02) 6764 8000 Fax: (02) 6766 3890 (secure).
The WorkCover Authority 13 10 50 Main Administration Centre (Monday-Friday 8:30- Glen Innes Severn Council 4:30) - (02) 6730 2300 After Hours Emergency Contacts: Roads and Drainage: 0409 817 242
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Rangers: 0417 890 889 Water and Waste Water: 0418 162 794 Main Administration Centre (Monday-Friday 8:30- Inverell Shire Council 4:30) - (02) 6728 8288 Civil & Environmental Services: (02) 6728 8200 or (02) 6728 8281 After Hours Emergency Contacts: Roads Inverell Area: 0428 669 503 Roads Ashford Area: 0429 668 091 Environmental Health Officer: 0409 715 485
Fire and Rescue NSW 000
Secretary of the Department of Planning and 1300 305 695 Environment (or nominee) (immediate contact)
In the event of an emergency that requires contacting landowners, details of landowners are provided at Appendix I. 3.6 Complaints Handling and Dispute Resolution Table 11 outlines the community and stakeholder communication pathways that have been established for community information, enquiries and / or complaints. Table 11. Stakeholder communications pathways
Communication Method Details
24-hour telephone number 1800 074 115
Postal address White Rock Solar Farm, Level 23, 201 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Email [email protected]
Website www.whiterocksolarfarm.com
Management of community enquiries or complaints will be done in accordance with the ‘GWA Policy Statement on Handling Enquiries and Complaints’ (contained in Appendix J) and the project specific ‘Procedure for Handling Enquires and Complaints’ (contained in Appendix K), which together form WRSFs Complaints Management System. The System outlines: • process for encouraging and gathering enquiries and complaints, including details of 24 hour telephone number, postal address and email address through which complaints and enquiries can be made • registration of information on all enquiries and complaints received • means by which complaints are addressed • whether a satisfactory resolution was reached • whether mediation is required. White Rock Solar Farm – SSD 7487 Environmental Management Strategy UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED. Page 37 of 107
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All information gathered will be registered in an Enquires and Complaints Register. The System will be regularly reviewed.
3.7 Stakeholder Engagement The Stakeholder and Community Engagement Plan (SaCEP) is provided at Appendix L. All engagement with the community shall be managed in accordance with the SaCEP. The SaCEP outlines the engagement tools and techniques that will be used to inform the community and relevant agencies about the operation and environmental performance of the project, these include: • Newsletters, direct letters and advertisements • Project website • White Rock Wind Farm Community Consultative Committee • One-on-one meetings as required, and • Briefings of local, state and national agencies and politicians as required. Due to the hybrid nature of the proposed project, the SaCEP will be actioned in parallel with the White Rock Wind Farm Stakeholder and Community Engagement Plan.
4 Monitoring, Audit and Review
4.1 Environmental Performance Monitoring and Auditing The WRSF Project will undergo regular inspections and checks. The proposed inspection schedule, including personnel responsible for implementation of report findings, reporting requirements and frequency, is detailed in Table 12. Table 12. Environmental Performance Monitoring Schedule Inspection Objectives Responsibility for Output Timing Implementation Site inspection Review status of all EPC Contractor Weekly Weekly and post controls and HSE Environmental significant rainfall (EPC general Representative. Checklist. contractor) environmental WRSFPL Incident Records. Monthly (WRSFPL) performance. Representative during construction Noise and Undertake noise EPC Contractor Plant and Monthly at a minimum Vibration and vibration HSE equipment during construction monitoring to Representative inspections ensure compliance Noise checks. As required if potential with noise levels for impacts
Attended Noise If complaints arise or, Measurements. as needed for OOHW
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Inspection Objectives Responsibility for Output Timing Implementation Traffic and Review status of Site Construction Pre-start and pre- Daily. When oversize or Access traffic and access Manager. closedown overmass movements controls for Project inspections of to ensure traffic control compliance with devices and standard industry signage and the guidelines and condition of local mitigation and access roads. management Inspections of Weekly during measures in TMP traffic control construction. and project devices, signage conditions of and road approval. condition. Visual inspections Daily during to assess vehicle construction. movement and traffic flows to and from the Project site along the Gwydir Highway. Erosion and Review status of EPC Contractor Inspection of a) inspections Sedimentation ERSED controls for HSE ERSED controls for undertaken following Project to ensure Representative. access roads, cut >20 mm in any 24-hour compliance with off and diversion period until the disturbed areas (not standard industry drains, drainage retained as guidelines and lines and infrastructure, such as mitigation and stockpiles. access tracks) are management stabilised (with 70% measures in ESCP. grass coverage – as defined by the ESCP). This is due to stabilising works occurring during construction but growth likely occurring into operations; and b) Once stabilised, inspections would increase to ‘following >50 mm in any 24-hour period’ Heritage Inspect proposed EPC Contractor Implementation of Weekly and prior to trenching route for HSE EMS. and during ground 33kV cable. Avoid Representative Incident Records. break activities removal of trees throughout and check for scars construction. on trees that are
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Inspection Objectives Responsibility for Output Timing Implementation proposed to be removed. Check for unanticipated finds. Comply with CHMP. Flora and No impact on EPC Contractor Incident Records. Daily, weekly and Fauna vegetation beyond HSE Implementation of monthly inspection designated work Representative EMS and FFMP. requirements during areas. construction. Weed management EPC Contractor Implementation of Fortnightly inspections and enhancement HSE EMS and FFMP. during construction. of EEC Representative / Environmental Consider need for WRWFPL for EEC outcomes met. corrective action as relevant. enhancement & establishment areas Biodiversity WRWFPL Monitoring report Annually (or as per the monitoring of EEC maintenance regime in enhancement and later years) throughout establishment areas project life Operations Monitor WRWFPL Operations Monthly or as required environmental inspection report (e.g. after significant performance to weather event check if any nominated as >50mm maintenance within any 24 hour period during required (e.g. operations ) fencing around EEC areas, vegetation rehabilitation, and effectiveness of erosion controls.
4.2 Audits The Development Compliance Manager will conduct, or arrange for an experienced person to conduct audits of the project environmental performance. During construction, these audits will occur quarterly, noting that the primary review mechanism for this project is through inspections (refer to Table 12). The first audit will occur within the first month of site works commencing. The scope of the audits will focus on compliance with the project approval and the effectiveness of the EMS implementation including sub-plans. The audit report will be submitted to WRSFPL and EPC Contractor to address the audit findings. The EPC Contractor may initiate its’ own internal audit regime.
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4.3 Non-Conformance Corrective Actions Non-compliance may be identified through routine Weekly Site Inspections, impromptu site inspections, via the EMS Review or Audit process or be incident based. Environmental non-conformance includes: • non-compliance with environmental management controls or mitigation measures • environmental incidents not threatening material harm to the environment • non-compliance with CoA • environmental emergencies threatening material harm to the environment. Corrective actions may be triggered by any of the above and will include immediate steps taken to control event, investigation and development additional controls to prevent re-occurrence. Corrective actions will be developed in consultation with relevant stakeholders (e.g. EPC Contractor HSE Representative) and will be assigned to the appropriate staff for close out. Records will be kept of all corrective actions. All environmental incidents and non-conformances will be reported in accordance with Section 3.5 and the Emergency Response Plan (Appendix I). 4.4 Continuous Improvement
Revision of Strategies and Plans
The EMS (and associated subplans) is a working document that requires review and, if necessary, amendment during the life of the project. The Development Compliance Manager shall undertake a review of the EMS where: • an EMS audit makes findings or recommendations identifying a need • there is a significant change to the construction schedule, the site layout or a change in the construction methodology • site based conditions require a change to the environmental controls and procedures identified within the EMS • an environmental incident occurs that requires corrective actions to be incorporated in the EMS. Any revised Strategy or Plans must be submitted to the Secretary within 1 month of submission of an incident report to the Secretary • prior to upgrading or decommissioning activities on site. The revised Strategy or Plans must be to the satisfaction of the Secretary • there is any modification to the conditions of consent. The revised Strategy or Plans must be submitted to the Secretary within 1 month of any modification to the conditions of consent. The EMS review shall consider the environmental controls and procedures set out within the EMS (inclusive of the appendices) to make sure the environmental controls and procedures remain applicable to the activities being carried out.
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Any recommendations from the review will be reported to the Site Project Manager and EPC HSE Representative and (following adoption) be communicated to relevant stakeholders. Changes to the EMS will be communicated through pre-start meetings and to existing onsite personnel and be incorporated into environmental induction material. 4.5 Documentation and Record Keeping All site personnel will be inducted to the requirements of this EMS and any associated documentation. Records of these inductions, inspections and audits will be kept onsite, either in hardcopy form in the office, or electronically which the Site Manager will provide upon request. Document control is outlined on the cover page of this EMS and shall be updated in line with revisions of the EMS. 4.6 Access to Information The following project documentation is publicly available from the project website (www.whiterocksolarfarm.com): • the EIS • the final layout plans for the development • current statutory approvals for the development • how complaints about the development can be made • a complaints register. The website will be updated with any additional information required by the Secretary. The information on the website will be kept up to date, to the satisfaction of the Secretary.
5 Key Environmental Performance Management
The following sections address each of the environmental aspects to be managed consistently through the controls set out in this EMS. The key issues in Table 13 address those listed in the EIS and CoA. The CoA and summary of environmental safeguards from the EIS are provided at Appendix A. Table 13. Key Environmental Aspect Performance Management
Environmental Aspect EMS Reference
Biodiversity management Section 5.1; Flora and Fauna Management Plan (Appendix B); Weed Management Plan (Appendix C); Landscaping Plan (Appendix F)
Heritage (Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal) management Section 5.2; Cultural Heritage Management Plan (Appendix D)
Visual and on-site landscape management Section 5.3
Noise management Section 5.4; Noise Management Plan (Appendix E)
Traffic and access management Section 5.5; Traffic Management Plan (Appendix G)
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Land use management Section 5.6
Soil and water management Section 5.7; Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (Appendix H); Spill Response Plan
Waste management Section 5.8
Air quality management Section 5.9
Dangerous goods and hazardous substances Section 5.10 management
Bushfire risk management Section 5.11; Emergency Response Plan (Appendix I)
Emergency and incident management Section 5.12; Emergency Response Plan (Appendix I)
5.1 Biodiversity Management Biodiversity management is addressed through the: • Flora and Fauna Management Plan (FFMP) at Appendix B • Weed Management Plan prepared by UGL Pty Ltd at Appendix C • Landscaping Plan prepared by ngh environmental at Appendix F. These documents are requirements of the EIS safeguards and CoA. These management plans must be fully implemented and addressed throughout construction and operation activities (as relevant). 5.2 Heritage Management Heritage (Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal) management is addressed through the Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) at Appendix D, which is a requirement of the CoA and EIS Safeguards. The CHMP must be fully implemented and addressed throughout construction and operation activities (as relevant). 5.3 Visual and On-site Landscape Management
Objectives and Targets
Objectives for visual impact mitigation and on-site landscape management are: • minimise the visual impact of the Project during construction and ongoing operation • incorporate designs that are best assimilated in the landscape • revegetate and stabilise disturbed areas. Targets for visual impact mitigation and on-site landscape management for the project are: • 100% compliance with constructing the infrastructure within the approved project area • Prompt reinstate of relevant disturbed areas
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• 100% response rate regarding visual and landscape complaints • compliance with 100% of the visual impact mitigation commitments
Mitigation Measures
The following mitigation measures address the visual and on-site landscape management objectives, targets and legal requirements. The design has considered measures to minimise the visual impact of the development. These include: • The engineers’ specification requires the incorporation of appropriate finishes which will be incorporated into the EPC Contractors final design (i.e. non-reflective finishes and suitable colours) to ensure the visual appearance of all ancillary infrastructure (including paint colours, specifications and screening) blend in as far as possible with the surrounding landscape and minimise off-site visual impacts. The Visual Impact Assessment determined that opportunities for sunglint and glare would be limited due to the properties and characteristics of the solar panels, which are designed to absorb light rather than reflect it. The potential for glint or glare associated with non- concentrating PV systems which do not involve mirrors or lenses is relatively limited. PV solar panels are designed to absorb as much solar energy as possible in order to generate the maximum amount of electricity or heat. As such, they reflect only around 2% of the light received (Spaven Consulting 2011). Sunglint and glare would also be limited due to the lack of direct visibility and line of sight from surrounding sensitive receiver locations to the proposed solar farm site. The potential for sunglint impacting motorists travelling along local roads would largely be mitigated by existing tree planting alongside road corridors, and where visible, sunglint would tend to be indirect relative to the direction of travel and very short term in duration. • The installation of low intensity lighting (except where required for safety or emergency purposes) that does not shine above the horizontal and complies with AS4282 (INT) 1997 – Control of Obtrusive Effects of Outdoor Lighting, or its latest version. Off-site lighting impacts of the development are to be minimised. • No advertising signs or logos are to be mounted on site, except where this is required for safety purposes • Selection of location of replacement vegetation planting to provide partial screening between the Gwydir Hwy and the solar farm (refer to the Landscaping Plan at Appendix F) During construction: • The generation of dust shall be minimised (e.g. use of water cart, covering stockpiles, progressive rehabilitation, etc) • Vehicles leaving the site are in a clean condition and do not result in dirt being tracked onto the public road network • Retention of grasscover wherever possible
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During operation: • The facility would be maintained in a manner that ensures the constructed elements, and on- site vegetation are maintained to an appropriate visual standard. This may involve grazing to maintain grass height. Decommissioning: • All solar panels and ancillary infrastructure must be decommissioned within 18 months of the cessation of operations, unless the Secretary agrees otherwise • Rehabilitation that must comply with the objectives of Table 14 (as per the CoA)
Table 14. Rehabilitation Objectives
Feature Objective
Development site (as a whole) • Safe, stable and non-polluting • Minimise the visual impact of any above ground ancillary infrastructure agreed to be retained for an alternative use as far as is reasonable and feasible
Solar farm infrastructure • To be decommissioned and removed, unless the Secretary agrees otherwise
Land use • Restore land capability to pre-existing agricultural use
Community • Ensure public safety
The Landscaping Plan provided at Appendix F prepared by ngh environmental further addresses the visual and on-site landscaping commitments. The Landscaping Plan is a requirement of the EIS Safeguards and CoA 5.4 Noise Management Noise management is addressed through the Noise Management Plan (NMP) prepared by Sonus and provided at Appendix E. The NMP is a requirement of the EIS Safeguards and CoA. The NMP must be fully implemented and addressed in the throughout the construction activities. 5.5 Traffic and Access Management Traffic and access management is addressed through the Traffic Management Plan (TMP) prepared by UGL Pty Ltd and provided at Appendix G. The TMP is a requirement of the CoA and EIS Safeguards.
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The TMP must be fully implemented and addressed in the SWMS and Environmental Site Plan for construction activities. 5.6 Land Use Management The Development Envelope, and all land immediately surrounding it, is zoned RU1 Primary Production and has been used for agriculture, primarily grazing. Grazing will be excluded from the WRSF during construction, however light grazing may be allowed once the WRSF is operational to manage grass growth within the solar farm. As per Table 14, land capability will be restored to pre-existing agricultural use upon the decommissioning of the WRSF. There would be ongoing consultation with the landowner regarding the WRSF Project including potential impacts to farm operations and risks to livestock. Construction and operations personnel would drive carefully and below the designated speed limit, to minimise disturbance to livestock, crops and pasture, and dust generation. 5.7 Soil and Water Management
Objectives and Targets
Objectives The main objective of managing soil and water is to minimise erosion, manage sediment and minimise impacts on water quality or watercourses consistent with relevant State policies and guidelines, including the Department of Primary Industries – Water’s ‘Guidelines for Controlled Activities 2012’. This can be achieved by: • minimising ground disturbance during construction activities particularly in the vicinity of watercourses • managing the flow of stormwater through and around construction areas • conveying runoff from disturbed areas to sediment traps to capture sediment and minimise water pollution • installing, monitoring and maintaining erosion and sediment controls in accordance with relevant guidelines and standard industry practice • ensuring storage and handling of fuels and hazardous chemicals is in accordance with EPA guidelines, to prevent release of hazardous materials to the environment • progressive rehabilitation of the site, as soon as practicably possible • complying with the requirements of applicable legislation and the Secretary’s Conditions of Approval for the Project. Targets for soil and water quality management issues are: • 100% compliance with all applicable legislation, regulations, standards, codes and licenses that relate to the Project • no significant degradation to the environment, including existing drainage lines and watercourses as a result of construction activities • no sediment entrained in water leaving the construction site in quantities outside of guideline criteria • standard industry environmental management practices implemented for soil and water quality
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• implementation of measures listed in the EIS safeguards and the project CoA.
Mitigation Measures
During construction: • An Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP) has been prepared by UGL Pty Ltd and is provided at Appendix H. The ESCP and will be implemented for the Project. This is a conceptual ESCP and will need to be reviewed and modified as required depending on the final detailed design, site conditions and the effectiveness of controls. More details plans will need to be prepared to identify specific controls for respective work locations • Appropriate erosion controls, sediment controls and stormwater management measures will be implemented throughout the project construction (refer to Table 15 and ESCP) • Adequate ESCPs will be submitted at least one week prior to works commencing in the respective area. The ESCPs must be endorsed by the GWA Compliance Manager (or delegate) before work commences. • The Contractor will ensure that the ESCPs are regularly reviewed and changes implemented to manage the erosion hazard and prevent pollution at the site • Additional erosion and sediment control works will be installed as might become necessary, for example due to unforeseen events or site conditions. This may be particularly relevant to initiate repairs after severe rain events • All subcontractors will be informed of their responsibilities in minimising the potential for soil erosion and pollution to downslope areas. Appropriate training will be provided during site inductions and pre-start meetings • A Spill Response Procedure is outlined at Appendix I.
Table 15. Mitigation and management measures for Soil and Water
Factor Management or Control Measure • all earthworks, including waterways/drains/spillways and their outlets, will be constructed to be Design ARIs and stable in at least the 10-year ARI, time of concentration (tc) storm event Calculation of • data from the Intensity Frequency Duration chart (available from BOM website) Peak Flows for (http://www.bom.gov.au/hydro/has/cdirswebx/cdirswebx.shtml) will be used to calculate peak flows Control Devices and design control measures for individual catchments, during preparation of the ESCP/s. Designs will be undertaken by suitably experienced and qualified personnel. • plan construction works to limit the amount of disturbed area at any one time Erosion Control • minimise disturbance of grass cover when installing posts for solar array (and other work areas), especially in and around the drainage lines. Use of rubber tracked vehicles is preferable • clearly visible and sturdy barrier fencing will be erected as shown in the Progressive ESCP Drawings and elsewhere at the discretion of the Site Environmental Officer to define essential construction areas and help minimise unnecessary disturbance by preventing vehicular (cars and construction machinery) and pedestrian access to restricted areas; and to help reduce wind and water erosion as a consequence. Barrier fencing will be installed upfront and before construction works commence in any given area • limit vehicular access to the site to that essential for construction work and ensure all vehicles park in designated areas that have been suitably stabilised (e.g. with road base) • stockpiles of topsoil will be located at least 5 m from areas of likely concentrated or high velocity flows, particularly any earth banks and roads and drainage lines. An additional buffer of at least 40 m should be provided between stockpiles and natural waterways
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• Stockpile and compound sites would be located using the following criteria: o Within the WRSF Development Envelope. o At least 40 metres away from the nearest waterway. o In areas of low ecological conservation significance (i.e. pasture land). • during windy weather unsealed roads and other exposed areas creating dust will be kept moist (not wet) by sprinkling with water, as far as reasonable, to reduce wind erosion • progressive site rehabilitation will be undertaken as soon as practicable using appropriate seed mix (refer to Appendix B). • the development is to be carried out in accordance with OEH’s Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils Stormwater and Construction (Landcom, 2004) manual. Management • divert clean stormwater from upslope of disturbed areas using earth banks or catch drains, and using energy dissipaters or level spreaders at their outlets as appropriate, to discharge stormwater in safe areas, avoiding erosion and flooding hazards. Clean water diversion banks should be installed upfront and before any earthworks commence in the areas they protect. Permanent diversion banks will be sized by a suitably qualified person, using hydrological data and design criteria • the siting of solar panels within the watercourses on site is to be minimised • If solar panels are sited within the watercourses on site, then: (a) stable ground cover is to be established beneath these panels; (b) this ground cover is to be maintained and kept free of weeds; and (c) runoff from the solar panels is to be suitably managed to minimise any erosion in these watercourses • check dams (see ESCP) using rock aggregate, sandbags or geotextile “sausages” may be installed within drains and diversion channels to help reduce erosion, especially on steep sections. Care will be taken to ensure there is adequate provision for a spillway that allows flows to be retained within the diversion channel and not escape thereby potentially causing scouring and/or flooding of adjacent lands • if posts (for the solar array) are to be installed within the natural drainage lines (or its’ banks), adequate measures should be implemented to avoid scouring and erosion around the posts or to the drainage line • All works in and around the natural drainage lines will consider the Department of Primary Industries – Water’s ‘Guidelines for Controlled Activities 2012’ available at http://www.water.nsw.gov.au/water- licensing/approvals/controlledactivity. The guidelines outline what should be considered in the design and construction of watercourse crossings including the importance of maintaining natural hydraulic, hydrologic, geomorphic and ecological functions of the watercourse • maintain slope lengths no greater than 80 metres in disturbed areas and preferably <50 m on exposed road surfaces. To reduce slope lengths in construction areas install appropriate temporary earth diversion banks. On roads consider the use of cross banks and mitre drains to shed water from the surface • ensure roof water from site infrastructure is discharged in suitably stabilised locations to prevent erosion. Where buildings are without gutters, the ground surface beneath the roof drip -line should be stabilised with gravel or suitable non -erodible material. • sediment traps shall be installed to treat runoff from disturbed areas and retain sediment as close as Sediment possible to its source Control • when installing sediment traps, materials will be firmly anchored to the ground to prevent water passing under them. Adequate provision will be allowed for water to bypass the trap during larger storms without causing flooding or erosion of adjoining areas
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• sediment fencing should be installed downslope of disturbed areas as shown on the ESCP Drawing/s and elsewhere at the discretion of the EPC Contractor HSE Representative, to retain the coarser sediment fraction • sediment fences will have a return of 1 metre upslope at intervals of approximately 20 metres. Returns are installed to subdivide the catchment area of the sediment fence, to improve its effectiveness and help prevent structural damage during peak flows • the catchment area of each section of fence should be small enough to limit flow if concentrated at one point to less than 50 L/s in the 10 -year ARI storm event. This works out to be about 2,500 m2 at the site • when installing sediment fence, place the fence as close as possible to along the contour, to provide a maximum surface area to the passage of stormwater • maintain sediment fences so that no more than 30% of the design capacity is lost to accumulated sediment. This is achieved by removing sediment routinely • dispose of all sediment removed from any trapping device in locations where further erosion and consequent pollution to downslope lands and waterways will not occur • limit the clearing width to the minimum that is practicable for the vehicles that will use the tracks Access Tracks • minimise cut and fill by constructing the road at-grade where ever possible • strip and stockpile topsoil separately for use in rehabilitation • ensure the road surface has a cross-sectional grade to allow free surface drainage and avoid excessive ponding and concentration of flow in wheel ruts • employ outfall drainage where practicable to shed water over the downslope batter of the road, especially where the road alignment is generally parallel to the contours. Where the road is positioned along a crest or ridge use a crowned road surface that sheds water to both sides • when grading roads, avoid the formation of windrows along the shoulders. These retain water on the road surface and increase erosion • where table drains are used, ensure these are properly stabilised and install regularly spaced mitre drains to discharge water from drains, releasing this in well vegetated, stable areas, where necessary with energy dissipaters • mitre drains shall be installed regularly to convey runoff from the road shoulders and any table drains to disposal areas away from the road alignment. As a general rule the maximum spacing between mitre drains should be 50m, however this may be further reduced in high erosion hazard areas (e.g. on steep slopes). Mitre drains should have a grade of no more than 5%. They should discharge to areas that are well stabilised and free of obstructions (e.g. large rocks, tree trunks) • cross -banks (or rollover banks) or cross -drains should be considered in suitable locations to shed water from the road surface, discharging water in well vegetated, stable areas. Cross -banks are earth banks that extend across the road roughly perpendicular to the road alignment. They contain a bank and upstream channel to direct runoff across the road surface, to prevent the concentration of runoff along the road surface and reduce runoff velocities, thereby reducing erosion. These measures are highly useful where roads are aligned acutely to or perpendicular to the contours over long distances • stabilise road batters using a suitable combination of rolled erosion control products (RECPs) such as jute matting, mulching, spray -on stabilisation measures (e.g. hydro mulching or bitumen emulsion) revegetation and hard armouring where required (e.g. within flow lines). • construction areas will be prepared as stabilised “hardstand” sites with an aggregate or bitumen seal Site Compound provided to support construction activities / Laydown Areas • the ground surface will be stabilised with a suitable non -erodible base material such as compacted crushed sandstone, and overlain by durable aggregate • progressive ESCP will be prepared to manage construction impacts at all construction sites; • to secure hardstand sites install erosion and sediment controls in the following sequence:
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- install sediment fence downslope of all areas to be disturbed prior to any new land disturbance - stabilise batters as soon as practicable after formation - install barrier fence around perimeter of pad sites to define the work site and to confine land disturbance to the minimum practicable area - install sediment traps where recommended - install earth banks, catch drains and pipes where indicated to divert upslope (clean) stormwater around, or if absolutely necessary, through work areas. In doing so, ensure that measures are in place to prevent runoff from disturbed areas entering clean water drains - install temporary culverts and waterway crossings as required to convey stormwater beneath roadways - install earth banks and catch drains to capture runoff from disturbed areas and divert this to sediment traps and basins as indicated - strip and stockpile topsoil progressively from areas being subjected to earthworks. Stockpile locations should be away from areas of stormwater drainage, vehicular traffic and sensitive lands (e.g. river banks and riparian areas) - install stabilised site accesses and temporary access tracks where indicated - proceed with construction and excavation works only once the above control measures are in place • where possible, avoid trenching in areas where water flow is likely to concentrate (eg. diversion banks Trenching and watercourses) • employ direction drilling techniques instead of trenching to lay services across watercourses, if feasible • limit the time trenches are open at any one location to less than three days and avoid opening trenches whenever storms are forecast. Storms can occur at any time of the year, so weather forecasts shall be monitored • protect any nearby (downslope) drainage inlets with grass filter strips and/or sediment barriers until the trench line is rehabilitated • remove and store vegetated topsoil (sod) so that it can be replaced on the trench to provide immediate erosion protection after backfilling is completed. Store topsoil separately from any subsoil overburden so that when the trench is to be refilled, the topsoil can be replaced above the subsoil • ensure trench widths are the minimum needed to safely install the services • retain any cut vegetation (i.e. trees and shrubs) for placement later along the easement during rehabilitation. Any cut trees should be placed across the slope to act as windrows and slow the flow of stormwater across the disturbed easement. The cut vegetation will in addition assist erosion control by protecting the soil surface • when trenching parallel to site contours (across grade), soil from the excavation should be placed and compacted on the uphill side of the trench to form an earth bank. This is to prevent clean stormwater entering the trench (where after it must be managed as runoff from disturbed areas) by directing stormwater around and away from the open trench. This measure may be avoided where trenches are expected to be open for less than 24 hours and where the likelihood of rain is low • when trenching perpendicular or obliquely to site contours (down grade): - use sandbags as plugs or bulkheads across trench inverts to shorten the length of stormwater flow in the trench (so reducing erosion of soils in the trench) - ensure plugs, collars or trench stops are employed to control tunnel erosion after backfilling is completed - provide cross banks at regular intervals to prevent concentrated water flows along the finished (backfilled) trenchline
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- backfill subsoil and compact to 95 per cent Standard Proctor. Then, replace topsoil and any sod to match surrounding ground levels. Provide an appropriate allowance for settling of uncompacted backfill material (e.g. 10%) - after backfilling, remove excess or unsuitable spoil from the site • in areas that require topsoil to be stripped (e.g. new access roads and laydown area) strip topsoil and Site Stabilisation stockpile this for later use in rehabilitation before construction; and Rehabilitation • site stabilisation should be undertaken progressively as works are concluded in individual areas. • the preferred site stabilisation method will be identified on a site by site basis and included within the ESCPs. Advice from a soil conservationist and local agronomist should be sought during this process, if needed • when selecting stabilisation methods a key factor that will be considered is the form of water runoff over the stabilised area. Areas subject to concentrated flow (i.e. watercourses and drains) will require different stabilisation techniques to those subject to sheet flow • in most areas, revegetation will be the preferred method of stabilisation and it is likely that the revegetation goal will be to use pasture/native grasses, to achieve a similar condition and pasture species composition to present, so that the lands may continue to be used for grazing purposes • the revegetation program will be dictated by climatic conditions and would generally not be commenced during winter and summer, when conditions may prevent successful establishment • a seed mix approved by the landowner/s will be used on rehabilitation areas within with annual cover crop used to provide temporary cover and undersown with the desired mix of perennial species (refer to FFMP at Appendix B). The Landscape Plan contains details regarding revegetation within the EEC enhancement and establishment areas; • Minimise the siting of solar panels within the watercourses on site. If solar panels are sited within the watercourses on site, then: (a) stable ground cover is established beneath these panels; (b) this ground cover is maintained and kept free of weeds; and • to determine appropriate stabilisation techniques in areas of concentrated flow peak flows will be calculated and stabilisation designed accordingly, by reference to guidelines such as Landcom (2004) that provide advice for acceptable velocities within vegetated channels. This detail would be outlined in the ESCP/s • hard armouring and use of geofabrics may also be required on steep batters and drainage lines and would be addressed in the Progressive ESCPs.
Inspection and Monitoring
Essential to an effective system of sediment control devices, is an adequate inspection, maintenance and cleaning program. Inspections, particularly during/immediately after significant rainfall, will show whether devices are operating effectively (refer to Section 4.1). Where deficiencies are identified, controls should be promptly redesigned to make them effective.
The Site HSE Representative will inspect the site on a minimum weekly basis (and more regularly depending on rain events) during construction paying particular attention to: • ensuring barrier fencing is maintained and exclusion zones are being observed by all site workers and contractors; • waste receptacles are emptied regularly in a manner approved by the site superintendent;
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• constructing additional erosion and/or sediment control works as might become necessary to ensure the desired erosion and sediment control is achieved, i.e. make ongoing changes to the Plan; • maintaining erosion and sediment control measures in a functioning condition until all earthworks are completed and the site is rehabilitated; • removing trapped sediment and disposing this in safe areas; • where concern is raised over stability of creek crossings, turbidity upstream can be monitored and compared with downstream; • ensuring progressive and prompt rehabilitation of lands, that rehabilitation has effectively reduced the erosion hazard and that repairs or upgrades are initiated as appropriate; and • removing temporary soil conservation structures as the last activity in the rehabilitation program. Refer to Table 12 regarding ongoing inspection and monitoring regime. The assistance of an experienced environmental scientist may be necessary to rectify more complex issues. Site environmental inspections during operations are outlined in
5.8 Waste Management
Objectives and Targets
Objectives for waste management are: • Work in accordance with the waste hierarchy • Appropriate containment, classification and disposal of wastes • Meet legal requirements Targets for waste management for the WRSF project are: • avoid the unnecessary production of waste • dispose of waste materials in accordance with legislative requirements • minimise / reduce the quantities of resources to be used • compliance with 100% of the commitments detailed in the EMS.
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation measures relating to waste management during construction are provided in Table 16. Table 16. Mitigation and management measures for waste
Issue Control Measure
Storage and Handling Skip bins will be provided on site and will be emptied as required. Covered skip bins shall be used for any wastes that can be wind blown. General waste and recyclable waste (including paper and plastic) are to be
segregated, securely covered, clearly labelled with recycling bins provided at strategic locations.
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Any oil / oil bearing equipment shall be disposed of by an appropriately licensed
contractor to a licensed facility Waste management for the project shall be undertaken in accordance with the
waste hierarchy comprising avoidance of unnecessary resource consumption, recovery of resources through the reuse and recycling of waste, and disposal of waste as a last resort. All waste which cannot be reused shall be classified in accordance with the Waste
Classification Guidelines (DECCW, 2009), removed from the site and disposed of at place that can lawfully accept the waste in accordance with the POEO Act and POEO Waste Reg. Waste management measures shall be indicated in the Environmental Site Plan. Waste Disposal Where deemed appropriate, pallets, timber and cardboard would be chipped or
mulched to use back on site. All waste leaving the site will be entered into a site waste register to track the
waste type, quantity, transporter and destination of the waste removed from site using a licensed contractor. Waste transport dockets shall be retained on site as part of waste tracking documents. The Contractor shall ensure that all necessary waste licenses are obtained, waste
tracking documentation is maintained and disposal is to appropriately licensed facilities. All receipts for recycling and waste disposal shall be managed by the EPC
Contractor Site Manager and produced for inspection on request. No waste is to be burned or buried on-site
All solar panels and ancillary infrastructure must be decommissioned within 18 months of the cessation of operations, unless the Secretary agrees otherwise Toilet facilities would be provided for on-site workers and sewage from
contractor’s pump-out toilet facilities would be disposed of by a licensed contractor at local sewage treatment plants or other suitable facility agreed to by Council
During the operation and decommissioning or upgrading of the WRSF: • Maintain a waste register for the project • Waste management for the project shall be undertaken in accordance with the waste hierarchy comprising avoidance of unnecessary resource consumption, recovery of resources through the reuse and recycling of waste, and disposal of waste as a last resort • All waste which cannot be reused shall be classified in accordance with the Waste Classification Guidelines (DECCW, 2009), removed from the site and disposed of at place that can lawfully accept the waste in accordance with the POEO Act and POEO Waste Reg.
5.9 Air Quality Management
Objectives and Targets
Objectives for air quality management are:
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• minimise and prevent negative impacts from construction activities on air quality • ensure construction related dust and emissions do not cause harm or environmental nuisance • ensure compliance with the project CoA. Targets for air quality management for the WRSF project are: • zero visual emissions of dust from the site • zero dust related complaints received attributable to the project • no reliance on potable water supplies for dust management
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation measures to avoid air quality impacts are provided in Table 17. Table 17. Mitigation and management measures for Air Quality
Issue Control Measure
General Air Quality Minimise areas disturbed by construction to a minimum and undertake progressive Measure rehabilitation commencing immediately following the final intended use of any disturbed area
Dust generated by the project shall be minimised. Water carts (or other equivalent means) to be used to wet access roads and exposed earth surfaces including stockpiles and other materials that visually exhibit significant dust lift off. Weather conditions should be regularly monitored to determine frequency of application. No waste will be burnt on site
Prompt action will be taken to extinguish fires in accordance with the project
Emergency Response Plan (Appendix I); Soil stockpiles will be managed in accordance with the ESCP to avoid or minimise
dust generation. Selection of access road surface treatment will consider dust management in Vehicle Movement addition to track safety and durability requirements in wet weather with a Control Measures preference for low maintenance/low dust generating materials in high traffic areas All site personnel will be advised of the requirement to minimise dust generation
via environmental inductions, environmental training and pre-start meetings (e.g. vehicles to remain on formed tracks, do not exceed speed limits – limits reduced if elevated risk of dust generation) Vehicle Emission All site personnel will be advised of the requirement to operate plant and Control Measures equipment in a proper and efficient manner to minimise unnecessary emissions as part of the environmental induction (e.g. switch vehicles/machinery off when not in use). Vehicles and on-site plant will be maintained in a proper and efficient condition to
ensure exhaust emissions comply with the NSW Clean Air Regulation 2010 Routine pre-start checks will be used to record any excessively smoky vehicles
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No air quality monitoring is required beyond visual observations relating to dust Monitoring and emissions. Works causing the dust generation will be identified and managed. reporting Works will cease where emissions are leaving the Development Envelope until adequate measures can be taken to control emissions. Air quality reporting will be limited to completion of weekly inspections, audits
and incident or complaint investigation if required
5.10 Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Substances Management The construction project will introduce a range of fuels, oil and chemicals to the site that need to be managed to avoid site contamination and ensure safety of all site works and the local community.
Objectives and Targets
Objectives for management of dangerous goods and hazardous substances during construction are: • minimise the potential for environmental harm as a result of inappropriate storage and handling of dangerous goods and hazardous substances; and • ensure the storage of dangerous goods and hazardous substances are in accordance with relevant standards and industry best practice. Targets for the safe storage and handling of dangerous goods and hazardous substances during the construction of WRWF Stage 1 are: • 100% compliance with AS1940 The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids; • zero reportable spills (with actual or potential for material impacts); and • same day clean-up of spills and appropriate storage and disposal. Relevant legislation, policies and guidance materials include: • AS1940 The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids; • AS/NZ4452 The Storage and Handling of Toxic Substances Storage and Handling Liquids: Environmental Protection Participants Manual, 2007; • Australian Dangerous Goods Code 7th Edition, October 2011; • AS1940 The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids; • AS3780 The Storage and Handling of Corrosive Substances; • AS/NZ4452 The Storage and Handling of Toxic Substances; and • Storage and Handling Liquids: Environmental Protection Participants Manual, 2007.
Mitigation Measures
All potentially contaminating materials used or stored on the site (e.g. fuel, oils) should be prevented from entering the groundwater or surface water systems. Mitigation measures for the management of dangerous good and hazardous substances are provided at Table 18.
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Table 18. Mitigation and management measures for dangerous goods and hazardous substances management
Issue Control Measure Any fuels stored on site shall be stored in accordance with: Storage of dangerous goods and substances • a manner to prevent and contain spills; and • AS1940 - The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids;
Storage (and bunding) of Dangerous Goods will be tailored to suit both the type and volume to ensure compliance with AS1940. Storage and handling of Dangerous Goods to be undertaken at least 50m away from
watercourses, drainage line or permanent water sources;
A mobile spill kit shall be located near the fuel storage area to deal with any spill
outside of the bunded area A register of all Dangerous goods and substances and applicable Safety Data Handling of dangerous Sheets (SDS) will be maintained on site goods and substances All leaks and spills will be managed and cleaned up in accordance with good
environmental practices and protocols outlined in the project Emergency Response Plan (Appendix I) Employees using dangerous or hazardous substances shall be given information,
instruction, supervision or training in the proper storage, handling, application and clean up of the relevant substances; correct use and fitting of PPE and spill kits; and emergency procedures in case of leak, spill, fire or explosion. Refuelling to be undertaken at least 50m away from watercourses, drainage line or Refuelling controls permanent water sources
Funnels or extended nozzles shall be used to minimise fuel spillage when fuelling
equipment
Drip trays will be used when filling machinery outside of bunded areas
Spill kit will be available during refuelling activities.
Regular monitoring and inspections will be undertaken during construction; Monitoring and reporting Audits will be undertaken of dangerous goods / hazardous substances stores to
ensure they are complying with relevant licences and legislation. Reporting on dangerous goods and hazardous substances will be limited to
completion of weekly inspections and incident or complaint investigation if required.
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5.11 Bushfire Risk Management The construction works have potential to be an ignition source for fire initiation and works and facilities can also be impacted by bushfire. Management needs to consider both aspects of this issue. An Emergency Response Plan (Appendix I) has been prepared for the project, which includes requirements for works to ensure that risks of initiating fires/bushfires or responding to surrounding bushfires are effectively mitigated. The ERP is a requirement of the CoA and has been developed in consultation with the Rural Fire Service and Fire and Rescue NSW.
5.12 Emergency and Incident Management The project ERP (Appendix I) addressed emergency and incident responses such as spills and bushfires. The ERP must be fully implemented and addressed in the SWMS and the Environmental Site Plan for construction activities.
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Appendix A Conditions of Approval
Table A1 outlines the conditions of approval demonstrating how each has been addressed. Table A2 outline the summary of safeguards from the EIS and how each has been addressed. Table A1. Conditions of Approval (CoA) from Development Consent (Application Number: SSD 7487)
Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation
Schedule 2 – Administrative Conditions
Schedule 2 Obligation to minimise harm to the environment ✓ ✓ ✓ The preparation of this EMS. Continual #1 In addition to meeting the specific environmental performance criteria established improvement approach to under this consent, the Applicant shall implement all reasonable and feasible measures all activities (Section 4.4 of to prevent and/or minimise any material harm to the environment that may result from EMS). the construction, operation, or decommissioning of the development.
Schedule 2 Terms of consent ✓ ✓ ✓ This Appendix outlines how the Project EMS #2 The Applicant shall carry out the development: addresses each CoA and (a) generally in accordance with the EIS; and the EIS Environmental Safeguards (b) in accordance with the conditions of this consent.
Schedule 2 If there is any inconsistency between the above documents, the most recent document ✓ ✓ ✓ Noted shall prevail to the extent of the inconsistency. However, the conditions of this consent #3 shall prevail to the extent of any inconsistency.
Schedule 2 The Applicant shall comply with any reasonable requirement/s of the Secretary arising ✓ ✓ ✓ Noted from the Department’s assessment of:
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation #4 (a) any strategies, plans, programs, reviews, audits, reports or correspondence that are submitted in accordance with this consent; (b) any reports, reviews or audits commissioned by the Department regarding compliance with this consent; and (c) the implementation of any actions or measures contained in these documents.
Schedule 2 Final layout plans ✓ Refer to hold point in Section 3.4 of EMS. #5 Prior to the commencement of construction, the Applicant shall submit detailed plans of the final layout of the development to the Secretary, including details on the siting of No staging of development solar panels and ancillary infrastructure. proposed. Note: If the construction of the development is to be staged, then the provision of these plans may be staged
Schedule 2 Upgrading of solar panels and ancillary infrastructure Refer to hold point in Section 3.4 of EMS. #6 Over time, the Applicant may upgrade the solar panels and ancillary infrastructure on site provided these upgrades remain within the approved development footprint of the ✓ ✓ site. Prior to carrying out any such upgrades, the Applicant shall provide revised layout plans of the development to the Secretary incorporating the proposed upgrades.
Schedule 2 Work as executed plans ✓ Refer to hold point in Section 3.4 of EMS. #7 Prior to the commencement of operations or following the upgrades of any solar panels or ancillary infrastructure, the Applicant shall submit work as executed plans of the development to the Department.
Schedule 2 Notification of Department ✓ ✓ ✓ Refer to hold point for each phase of #8
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation Prior to the commencement of construction, operations, upgrading or development in Section decommissioning, the Applicant shall notify the Department in writing of the date of 3.4 of EMS. commencement of the relevant phase of the development. If any of these phases of the
development are to be staged, then the Applicant must notify the Department in writing prior to the commencement of the relevant stage, and clearly identify the development that would be carried out during the relevant stage.
Schedule 2 Structural adequacy ✓ ✓ Compliance Certificates to be provided by EPC #9 The Applicant shall ensure that all new buildings and structures, and any alterations or Contractor additions to existing buildings and structures, are constructed in accordance with the relevant requirements of the Building Code of Australia. Notes: Under Part 4A of the EP&A Act, the Applicant is required to obtain construction and occupation certificates for the proposed building works. Part 8 of the EP&A Regulation sets out the requirements for the certification of the development.
Schedule 2 Demolition ✓ Noted for decommissioning phase. #10 The Applicant shall ensure that all demolition work on site is carried out in accordance No demolition required for with AS 2601-2001: The Demolition of Structures, or its latest version. establishment of WRSF.
Schedule 2 Protection of public infrastructure ✓ ✓ ✓ Noted. Relocation or repair to public #11 Unless the Applicant and the applicable authority agree otherwise, the Applicant shall: infrastructure not (a) repair, or pay the full costs associated with repairing, any public infrastructure that anticipated in design, is damaged by the development; and construction or operation of the WRSF. (b) relocate, or pay the full costs associated with relocating, any public infrastructure that needs to be relocated as a result of the development
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation
Schedule 2 Operation of plant and equipment Refer to Section 5.9.2 of EMS. #12 The Applicant shall ensure that all plant and equipment used on site, or in connection ✓ ✓ with the development, is: (a) maintained in a proper and efficient condition; and (b) operated in a proper and efficient manner.
Schedule 3: Environmental Conditions - General
Schedule 3 Heavy Vehicle Restrictions Traffic Management Plan (Appendix G of EMS) #1 The Applicant shall ensure that the: ✓ ✓ (a) development does not generate more than: • 32 heavy vehicle movements a day during construction, upgrading or ✓ decommissioning; or • 20 heavy vehicle movements a day during operations; on the public road network; and (b) length of any vehicles used for the development does not exceed 19 metres.
Schedule 3 The Applicant shall keep accurate records of the number of heavy vehicles entering or ✓ Traffic Management Plan leaving the site each day. (Appendix G of EMS) #2
Schedule 3 Site Access ✓ Completed as part of WRWF project. (refer to #3 Prior to the commencement of the construction, the Applicant shall ensure the Section 3.4 of EMS). intersection of the Gwydir Highway with the White Rock Wind Farm access track has
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation been upgraded to the satisfaction of RMS to a basic right-turn and auxiliary left-turn in accordance with Austroads Guide to Road Design (as amended by RMS supplements).
Schedule 3 Operating conditions Traffic Management Plan (Appendix G of EMS). #4 The Applicant shall ensure: Incorporated into detailed (a) the internal roadway is constructed as an all-weather roadway; ✓ ✓ design. (b) there is sufficient parking on site for all vehicles, and no parking occurs on the public ✓ ✓ ✓ Erosion and Sediment road network in the vicinity of the site; Control plan (Appendix H) (c) all vehicles are loaded and unloaded on site, and enter and leave the site in a forward and Weed Management ✓ ✓ ✓ direction; and Plan (Appendix C) regarding vehicle hygiene (d) vehicles leaving the site are in a clean condition and do not result in dirt being tracked procedures. onto the public road network. ✓ ✓
Schedule 3 Traffic Management Plan ✓ ✓ Refer to Appendix G #5 Prior to the commencement of the construction, the Applicant shall prepare a Traffic ✓ Management Plan for the development to the satisfaction of the Secretary. This plan must be prepared in consultation with the RMS, and include: (a) details of the measures that would be implemented to minimise traffic safety issues and disruption to local users of the transport route/s during construction, upgrading or decommissioning works, including: • temporary traffic controls, including detours and signage; • notifying the local community about project-related traffic impacts; • minimising potential for conflict with school buses and rail services as far as practicable; • responding to any emergency repair or maintenance requirements; and (b) a drivers code of conduct that addresses:
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation • travelling speeds; • procedures to ensure that drivers adhere to the designated transport routes; and • procedures to ensure that drivers implement safe driving practices, particularly if using local roads through Glen Innes. Schedule 3 Following approval, the Applicant must implement the measures described in the Traffic ✓ ✓ Traffic Management Plan Management Plan (Appendix G of EMS) and #6 EPC Contractor responsibility
Schedule 3 LANDSCAPING ✓ ✓ Flora and Fauna Management Plan #7 Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland EEC (Appendix B of EMS) The Applicant shall ensure that the development of: (a) the access track (shown by the orange line in the figure in Appendix 1) does not disturb more than 0.48 hectares of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland EEC; and (b) the 33 kV underground cable connecting the site to the nearby wind turbine (shown by the blue line in the figure in Appendix 1 of the CoA) does not disturb more than 0.21 hectares of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland EEC.
Schedule 3 Vegetation enhancement ✓ ✓ ✓ Flora and Fauna Management Plan #8 The Applicant shall: (Appendix B of EMS) (a) enhance the area of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland located to the Landscaping Plan north of the solar panels (as outlined in red in the figure in Appendix 1); (b) establish (Appendix F) and maintain an additional area of at least 1 hectare of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland EEC within the project site; Weed Management Plan (Appendix C of EMS)
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation (c) maintain the vegetation in these two areas; and (d) keep this vegetation free of weeds.
Schedule 3 Landscaping Plan ✓ Landscaping Plan (Appendix F of EMS) #9 Prior to the commencement of construction, the Applicant shall: (a) prepare a detailed Landscaping Plan for the site in consultation with OEH; and (b) submit a copy of the plan to the Department. Note: the plan must outline the measures that would be implemented to ensure compliance with Condition 8.
Schedule 3 LAND MANAGEMENT ✓ ✓ Flora and Fauna Management Plan #10 Following any construction or upgrading on site, the Applicant shall: (Appendix B of EMS) (a) restore the ground cover of the site as soon as practicable, using suitable native Landscaping Plan species; and (Appendix F of EMS) (b) maintain ground cover; and Weed Management Plan (c) keep this ground cover free of weeds. (Appendix C of EMS)
Schedule 3 AMENITY ✓ Decommis Section 1.4 of EMS sioning #11 Construction, upgrading and decommissioning hours Unless the Secretary agrees otherwise, the Applicant shall only undertake construction, upgrading or decommissioning activities on site between: (a) 7 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday; (b) 8 am to 1 pm Saturdays; and
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation (c) at no time on Sundays and NSW public holidays. The following construction, upgrading or decommissioning activities may be undertaken outside these hours without the approval of the Secretary: • the delivery of materials as requested by the NSW Police Force or other authorities for safety reasons; or • emergency work to avoid the loss of life, property and/or material harm to the environment
Schedule 3 Noise ✓ ✓ ✓ Noise Management Plan (Appendix E of EMS) #12 The Applicant shall minimise the noise generated by any construction, upgrading or decommissioning activities on site in accordance with the best practice requirements outlined in the Interim Construction Noise Guideline (DECC, 2009), or its latest version.
Schedule 3 Dust ✓ ✓ Section 5.3.2 and Section 5.9.2 of EMS. #13 The Applicant shall minimise the dust generated by the development.
Schedule 3 Visual ✓ ✓ Section 5.3.2 of EMS and EPC contract. #14 The Applicant shall: (a) minimise the off-site visual impacts of the development, including the potential for any glare or reflection from the solar panels; (b) ensure the visual appearance of all ancillary infrastructure (including paint colours, specifications and screening) blends in as far as possible with the surrounding landscape; and (c) not mount any advertising signs or logos on site, except where this is required for safety purposes.
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation
Schedule 3 Lighting ✓ ✓ Section 5.3.2 of EMS and EPC contract. #15 The Applicant shall: (a) minimise the off-site lighting impacts of the development; and (b) ensure that all external lighting associated with the development: • is installed as low intensity lighting (except where required for safety or emergency purposes); • does not shine above the horizontal; and • complies with Australian Standard AS4282 (INT) 1997 – Control of Obtrusive Effects of Outdoor Lighting, or its latest version.
Schedule 3 Chance finds protocol ✓ ✓ Hold point (Section 3.4 of EMS). #16 Prior to commencement of construction, the Applicant shall prepare a Chance Finds Protocol for the development in consultation with the Aboriginal Stakeholders, and to Cultural Heritage the satisfaction of OEH. Management Plan (Appendix D of EMS)
Schedule 3 Management of Aboriginal heritage items ✓ ✓ Cultural Heritage Management Plan #17 The Applicant shall carry out the following in consultation with the Aboriginal (Appendix D of EMS) stakeholders: (a) minimise the disturbance of any unexpected heritage items identified on site; (b) relocate any heritage items that would be disturbed by the development to suitable alternative locations on the site prior to carrying out any construction on site; (c) implement the Chance Finds Protocol; and
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation (d) protect all heritage items on site, including those that would remain in situ as well as those that are relocated, from any impact.
Schedule 3 Discovery of human remains ✓ ✓ Cultural Heritage Management Plan #18 If human remains are discovered on site, then all work surrounding the area shall cease, (Appendix D of EMS) and the area must be secured. The Applicant shall notify OEH as soon as possible following the discovery, and work shall not recommence in the area until this is authorised by OEH
Schedule 3 WATER ✓ ✓ ✓ Section 5.7.2 of EMS #19 Water pollution Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (Appendix H The Applicant shall ensure that the development does not cause any water pollution, as of EMS) defined under Section 120 of the POEO Act. Spill Response Plan (Appendix I of EMS)
Schedule 3 Erosion and sediment control ✓ ✓ Section 5.7.2 of EMS #20 The Applicant shall ensure that the development is carried out in accordance with OEH’s Erosion and Sediment Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils and Construction (Landcom, 2004) manual. Control Plan (Appendix H of EMS)
Schedule 3 Development in watercourses ✓ ✓ Section 5.7.2 of EMS and included into EPC #21 The Applicant shall minimise the siting of solar panels within the watercourses on site. Contractor contract for design.
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation
Schedule 3 If solar panels are sited within the watercourses on site, then the Applicant shall ensure ✓ ✓ Section 5.7.2 of EMS, Flora that: and Flora Plan (Appendix #22 B) and ESCP (Appendix H) (a) stable ground cover is established beneath these panels; (b) this ground cover is maintained and kept free of weeds; and (c) runoff from the solar panels is suitably managed to minimise any erosion in these watercourses
Schedule 3 HAZARDS ✓ ✓ ✓ Section 5.10 of EMS #23 Storage and handling of dangerous goods All dangerous goods on site must be stored and handled in accordance with Australian Standard AS 1940- 2004: The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids, or its latest version.
Schedule 3 Operating conditions ✓ ✓ ✓ Emergency Response Plan (Appendix I of EMS). #24 The Applicant shall: EPC Contract requirement (a) ensure that the development: to meet relevant standards • complies with the relevant asset protection requirements in the RFS’s Planning for in the design of the solar Bushfire Protection 2006 (or equivalent); farm. • minimises the fire risks of the development; • is suitably equipped to respond to any fires on site; and (b) assist the RFS and emergency services as much as practicable if there is a fire in the vicinity of the site.
Schedule 3 Emergency Response Plan ✓ ✓ ✓ Emergency Response Plan (Appendix I of EMS). Will
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation #25 Prior to the commencement of operations, the Applicant shall prepare an Emergency be updated prior to Response Plan for the development in consultation with the RFS and Fire & Rescue NSW. operations. This plan must identify the fire risks and controls of the development, and the procedures that would be implemented if there is a fire on site or in the vicinity of the site. A copy of the plan must be kept on site in a prominent position adjacent to both site entry points at all times.
Schedule 3 Waste ✓ ✓ Refer to Section 5.8 of EMS. #26 The Applicant shall: (a) minimise the waste generated by the development; (b) classify all waste on site in accordance with the EPA’s Waste Classification Guidelines; (c) appropriately store and handle all waste on site in accordance with its classification; and (d) remove all waste from the site as soon as practicable, and ensure it is sent to appropriately licensed waste facilities for disposal.
Schedule 3 Decommissioning and rehabilitation Decommis Noted. Refer to Section 5.3 sioning and Section 5.8 of EMS. #27 All solar panels and ancillary infrastructure must be decommissioned within 18 months of the cessation of operations, unless the Secretary agrees otherwise.
Schedule 3 In conjunction with the decommissioning of the development, the Applicant shall Decommis Noted. Refer to Section 5.3 rehabilitate the site to the satisfaction of the Secretary. This rehabilitation must comply sioning of EMS. #28 with the objectives in Table 1.
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation
Schedule 4: Environmental Management, Reporting and Auditing
Schedule 4 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT #1 Environmental Management System Prior to the commencement of construction, the Applicant shall prepare an ✓ This EMS document and Environmental Management Strategy for the development to the satisfaction of the supporting plans Secretary. This strategy must: (a) provide the strategic framework for environmental management of the development; (b) identify the statutory approvals that apply to the development; (c) describe the role, responsibility, authority and accountability of all key personnel involved in the environmental management of the development; (d) describe the procedures that would be implemented to: • keep the local community and relevant agencies informed about the operation and environmental performance of the development; • receive, handle, respond to, and record complaints; • resolve any disputes that may arise; • respond to any non-compliance;
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation • respond to emergencies; and (e) include: • copies of any plans approved under the conditions of this consent; and • a clear plan depicting all the monitoring to be carried out in relation to the development Schedule 4 Following approval, the Applicant shall implement the Environmental Management ✓ ✓ This EMS document and Strategy. supporting plans #2
Schedule 4 Revision of strategies and plans ✓ ✓ Section 4.4 of EMS #3 The Applicant shall: (a) update the strategies and plans required under this consent to the satisfaction of the Secretary prior to carrying out any upgrading or decommissioning activities on site; and (b) review and, if necessary, revise the strategies and plans required under this consent to the satisfaction of the Secretary within 1 month of the: • submission of an incident report under condition 4 below; or • any modification to the conditions of consent.
Schedule 4 Incident Reporting ✓ ✓ Emergency Response Plan (Appendix I of EMS) #4 The Applicant shall: (a) immediately notify the Secretary and any other relevant agencies of any incident that has caused, or threatens to cause, material harm to the environment; (b) notify the Secretary and any other relevant agencies as soon as practicable after the Applicant becomes aware of the incident for any other incident associated with the development; and
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Reference Condition Applicable Timeframe How it has been addressed Design Construction Operation (c) within 7 days of the date of the incident, provide the Secretary and any relevant agencies with a detailed report on the incident, and such further reports as may be requested. The Applicant shall: Schedule 4 ✓ ✓ ✓ Section 4.6 of EMS (a) make the following information publicly available on its website as relevant to the #5 stage of the development: • the EIS; • the final layout plans for the development; • current statutory approvals for the development; • the proposed staging plans for the development if the construction, operation or decommissioning of the development is to be staged; • how complaints about the development can be made; • a complaints register; • any other matter required by the Secretary; and (b) keep this information up to date, to the satisfaction of the Secretary.
Table A2. Summary of Safeguards from WRSF EIS No. Environmental Safeguard Solar farm Where it has been C O D addressed 8.1 Biodiversity BIO 1 • Preparation of Flora and Fauna Management Plan (FFMP) that would incorporate mitigation strategies C FFMP at Appendix B and below. The FFMP would form part of the White Rock Solar Farm Construction Environmental Landscaping Plan at Management Plan. Appendix F of EMS BIO 2 • Areas to be retained (indicated areas of EEC and indicated trees) would be delineated (fencing or other C FFMP at Appendix B of EMS method), and construction activities would be excluded from these areas. Clearing and construction contractors would be given inductions that make clear the importance of these features.
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BIO 3 • A ‘Clearing and Grubbing Plan’ would be developed. This would include best practice methods for the C Incorporated into FFMP at removal of woody vegetation and non-woody vegetation including provision for: Appendix B of EMS o Mulch reuse onsite, particularly to stabilise disturbed areas o An unexpected threatened species find procedure
BIO 4 • Stockpile and compound sites would be located using the following criteria: C Section 5.7 of EMS o Within the WRSF Development Envelope. o At least 40 metres away from the nearest waterway. o In areas of low ecological conservation significance (i.e. pasture land). BIO 5 • The location of the underground power cable from the solar farm to the wind farm would be micro- C FFMP (Appendix B); EPC sited to avoid hollow bearing trees. Contract BIO 6 • Use non barbed-wire on exterior fencing, unless required for public safety. C FFMP (Appendix B); EPC Contract BIO 7 • Rehabilitation would be undertaken in all areas disturbed during construction. In native areas, it would C FFMP at Appendix B of EMS include species that are representative of the EECs occurring within the WRSF Development Envelope Landscaping Plan at to increase the diversity of the existing vegetation, as well as to improve the connectivity between Appendix F of EMS. patches in the landscape. Areas would be progressively rehabilitated. BIO 8 • Prepare a weed management plan that; C Weed Management Plan at o Is consistent with DPI’s Prime Fact 1063 Infrastructure proposals on rural land (DPI 2013) Appendix C o Allows for management of declared noxious weeds in accordance to the requirements stipulated by the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 o Develops a protocol for weed hygiene in relation to plant, machinery and importation and management of fill. BIO 9 • Vegetation groundcover, particularly beneath the low edge of the panels, would be monitored and any O FFMP at Appendix B of EMS bare areas or erosion addressed (ie. planting, jute mesh armouring etc.) to resist erosion and weed infestation. BIO 10 • Carry out refuelling of plant and equipment, chemical storage and decanting at least 50 m away from C Section 5.10 of EMS aquatic habitats in impervious bunds. Ensure that dry and wet spill kits are readily available BIO 11 • Dust control measures (i.e. water cart) would be implemented in response to visual cues to prevent dust C Section 5.3 and Section 5.9 spreading to nearby habitats. of EMS
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BIO 12 • If night work is unavoidable, ensure lights are directed away from wildlife or habitat corridor (biodiversity C FFMP at Appendix B links). BIO 13 • Develop a pest management plan drawing on the White Rock Wind Farm Stage 1 Construction Flora and C O Incorporated into FFMP at Fauna Management Plan, to cover all pest management issues at the WRSF site. Appendix B 8.2 Aboriginal heritage AH 1 • If removal of mature trees in relation to installation of the 33 kV cable is required, these would be checked for C CHMP at Appendix D of EMS scars prior to removal, and if present the scar should then be examined by a qualified heritage practitioner and RAPs to assess if the scar is cultural. • If any culturally scarred trees are identified by the above process, avoidance by redesign of the cable alignment should be undertaken. AH 2 • WRSFPL would prepare a Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) to address the potential for finding C CHMP at Appendix D of EMS Aboriginal artefacts during the construction of the WRSF. The CHMP will outline an unexpected finds protocol to deal with construction activity. Preparation of the CHMP should be undertaken in consultation with the RAPs. AH 3 • In the unlikely event that human remains are discovered during the construction, all work must cease. OEH, the C CHMP at Appendix D of EMS local police and the appropriate LALC should be notified. Further assessment would be undertaken to determine if the remains are Aboriginal or non-Aboriginal. AH 4 • Continued consultation with the RAPs for the WRSF Project should be undertaken. RAPs should be informed of C Noted. Incorporated into any major changes in project design or scope, further investigations or finds. CHMP at Appendix D of EMS 8.3 Visual impact VIA 1 • In the final design and layout of the proposal, the following should be considered; C Incorporated into design. o minimise bulk and height of proposed structures, where possible. Landscaping Plan at o selection and location for replacement tree planting which may provide partial screening or Appendix F of EMS backdrop setting for constructed elements o review of materials and colour finishes for selected components including the use of non-reflective finishes to structures where possible VIA 2 • Retention of grass cover wherever possible. C Section 5.3 of EMS
VIA 3 • During operation the facility would be maintained in a manner that ensures the constructed elements, O Section5.3 of EMS and on-site vegetation are maintained to an appropriate visual standard. 8.4 Noise impact
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NO 1 • Preparation of a final noise management plan (NMP) based on the Draft Plan provided with this EIS and C NMP at Appendix E of EMS the final design and arrangements for construction and operation. NO 2 • Adherence to standard construction hours, unless they do not cause noise emissions to be audible at any C NMP at Appendix E and nearby residences not located on the site or are otherwise approved. Section 1.4 of EMS 8.5 Land use LU 1 • Continued consultation with the landowner regarding the WRSF Project including potential impacts to C O Section 5.6 of EMS and the farm operations and risks to livestock. Stakeholder Engagement Plan at Appendix L LU 2 • Construction and operations personnel would drive carefully and below the designated speed limit, to C O D TMP at Appendix G and minimise disturbance to livestock, crops and pasture, and dust generation. Section 5.6 of EMS LU 3 • Rehabilitation of the site following decommissioning of the WRSF Project. D Section 5.3, FFMP at Appendix B, Landscaping Plan at Appendix F 9.1 Soils and landforms SL 1 • Preparation of an erosion and sediment control plan for the site (based on the draft plan in Appendix G) C Erosion and Sediment which includes measures for flood management at the site. Control Plan at Appendix H of EMS SL 2 • Preparation of a Spill Response Plan consistent with the Spill Response Plan for the WRWF to: C O D Spill Response Plan o Manage the storage of any potential contaminant onsite incorporated into Emergency o Mitigate the effects of soil contamination by fuels or other chemicals (including emergency Response Plan at Appendix I response and EPA notification procedures). o Prevent contaminants affecting adjacent pasture and dams. 9.2 Water WA 1 • Drainage controls to deal with any concentrated flows off panels, if required. C Section 5.7 of EMS; EPC Contract. WA 2 • Ongoing consultation with landowners in relation to the use of water from farm dams. C O Section 5.6 of EMS; the Stakeholder Engagement Plan at Appendix L 9.3 Traffic, transport and road safety TT 1 • Preparation of a traffic management plan (based on draft provided in Appendix H). C D TMP at Appendix G of EMS
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TT 2 • Ongoing consultation with stakeholders including Roads and Maritime, GISC, local landholders, C D TMP at Appendix G; emergency services, business owners, school bus companies to inform them of changes to road use and Stakeholder Engagement conditions during construction and decommissioning. Plan at Appendix L TT 3 • Availability of a direct contact phone number to enable any issues or concerns to be rapidly identified C O D Contact details identified in and addressed. Section 3.1 and 3.5 and 3.6 of EMS. 9.4 Health and safety EMF 1 • All electrical equipment would be designed in accordance with relevant codes and industry best practice C Incorporated into design; BF 1 standards in Australia. EPC Contract AV 1 • The materials and colour of onsite infrastructure (other than the solar panels) will, where practical, be C non-reflective and in keeping with the materials and colouring of the landscape. Section 5.3 of EMS; LP at Appendix F BF 2 • Buildings would comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA). C Incorporated into design; EPC Contract BF 3 • Safety management processes to highlight to all staff and contractors through an induction process the C O D Section 3.2 and 3.3 of EMS potential hazards of activities onsite. This should include preparation and compliance with job-specific WMSs and emergency preparation/response drills. BF 4 • The NSW RFS be provided with a contact point for the WRSF Project, during construction and operation. C O D ERP at Appendix I of EMS BF 5 • Designation of a WRSF onsite safety representative responsible for ensuring implementation of C O D Section 3.2 of EMS safeguards. This representative would also regularly consult with the local NSW RFS to ensure familiarity with the WRSF Project and assist the RFS and emergency services as much as possible if there is a fire on- site during construction of the WRSF Project. BF 6 • Basic training of all staff in the use of fire-fighting equipment. C O D Section 3.2.1 of EMS BF 7 • Appropriate fire-fighting equipment would be held on site to respond to any fires that may occur at the C O D ERP at Appendix I site during construction of the WRSF Project. This equipment will include fire extinguishers, a 1000 litre water cart retained on site as a precautionary basis, particularly during blasting and welding operation. Equipment lists would be detailed in Work Method Statements (WMSs). BF 8 • Slashing of vegetation on construction site before construction starts and as required to manage fuel C O D ERP at Appendix I loads. BF 9 • Maintain vegetation (e.g. allow sheep to graze) to a low level amongst solar panels to control vegetation O ERP at Appendix I on the solar farm site.
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BF 10 • All access and egress tracks on the site would be maintained and kept free of parked vehicles to enable C O TMP at Appendix G and ERP rapid response for firefighting crews and to avoid entrapment of staff in the case of bush fire at Appendix I emergencies. BF 11 • Confirm agreement of local property owners to use dams on site as water sources in the event of fire. C O D ERP at Appendix I BF 12 • The use of a Hot Works Permit system to ensure a number of pre-requisites are satisfied prior to works C O ERP at Appendix I commencing. Fire extinguishers would be present during all hot works. BF 13 • Where possible restrict the performance of Hot Works to specific areas (such as the Construction C O ERP at Appendix I Compound temporary workshop areas). BF 14 • Adequate site communications to ensure a fire event is communicated quickly. Measures would include: C O ERP at Appendix I o Use of mobile phones. o Use of two-way radios. o Fire Danger Warning signs located at the entrance to the site compounds. BF 15 • Specific management activities/controls for hot works, vehicle use, smoking, use of flammable materials, C O D ERP at Appendix I blasting. BF 16 • The BRMP will include consultation with the NSW Rural Fire Service during construction, operation and C O D ERP at Appendix I decommissioning.
9.5 Resource use and waste generation RW 1 Waste and energy management would be incorporated into the Construction Environmental Waste Management Plan, C Section 5.8 of EMS. this would cover the risks associated with construction of the WRSF. 9.6 Historic heritage HH 1 • In the event of an item of heritage significance being uncovered within the WRSF Development Envelope C CHMP at Appendix D after works commence, the NSW Heritage Division should be contacted prior to further work being undertaken at the particular location. 9.7 Climate and air quality CA 1 • The CEMP would include protocols to minimise and control dust. Measures may include: C D Section 5.7 and Section 5.9 o Use of a water cart (truck) to wet the access track and exposed dusty surfaces as appropriate of EMS; ESCP at Appendix to the conditions of the site. o Stabilisation of any disturbed areas that expose soil and increase erosion risks.
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CA 2 • The CEMP and DEMP would include protocols to guide vehicle and construction equipment use to C D Section 5.9 of EMS minimise emissions produced on the site. 9.8 Socioeconomic and community SOE 1 • Community consultation would be undertaken in accordance with the WRSF Project’s specific Community C O D Section 3.7 of EMS and WRSF Engagement Plan. Stakeholder Engagement Plan at Appendix L
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Appendix B Flora and Fauna Management Plan
Introduction This Flora and Fauna Management Plan (FFMP) forms a sub-plan of the White Rock Solar Farm (WRSF) Environmental Management Strategy (EMS). Objectives and Targets The preparation of a FFMP was specified as an Environmental Safeguard in the Environmental Assessment (EA) for the WRSF project. The purpose of the CFFMP is to detail how impacts on ecological values will be minimised and managed for the project, while addressing the relevant Conditions of Approval (CoA). Objectives for the management of flora and fauna are: • to minimise and mitigate impacts to flora and fauna throughout the WRSF project • to ensure compliance with all relevant CoA and legislative requirements Targets for the management of flora and fauna include: • 100% compliance with applicable legislation, Project CoA, guidelines and standards applicable to the CFFMP • No exceedance of required clearing limits for EEC • No introduction or spread of weed species • No introduction or sustenance of any significant pest species • Successful stabilisation and rehabilitation of disturbed areas • Implementation of relevant measures listed in the Environmental Safeguards documented in the project EA • compliance with 100% of the commitments detailed in the EMS.
Project Description The White Rock Solar Farm (WRSF) Project includes the construction and operation of a solar farm approximately 20 kilometres (km) west of Glen Innes, in northern NSW. The WRSF project was approved in June 2016. The proposal involves the construction of a solar farm and includes access roads, connection to the nearby substation with underground electricity cabling (see Figure 1). The majority of impacts will be confined to the solar farm construction footprint. Disturbances will include removal of ground cover vegetation (although this will be minimised as much as possible) and several isolated trees for the installation of infrastructure and access tracks. Poles would be driven or screwed into the ground in order to support the solar array’s mounting system and solar panels, with racking systems to allow the installation of solar panels. Ground disturbance in the form of trenching would also be required to install the underground cabling to connect the solar farm to the nearby substation. Once the solar farm has been established, there would be minimal ongoing disturbance of the ground surface.
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Existing Environment A specialist biodiversity assessment was prepared as part of the project Environmental Assessment to investigate and assess the potential impacts of the WRSF on biodiversity. The assessment identified the following characteristics within the Development Envelope: • About half of the Development Envelope consists of cultivated exotic vegetation • The remaining area comprises Blakely’s Red Gum – Yellow Box grassy woodland of the New England Tableland Bioregion. This is a vegetation community that is listed as an endangered ecological community (EEC) on both State and Commonwealth registers • There are several hollow bearing trees, predominantly along the western side of the Development Envelope • The solar array is located on cultivated exotic vegetation (see Figure 1), comprising pasture grasses with several exotic trees • There are no rivers or steams present at the site. A drainage depression lies across the area. It was dry during the field surveys and does not contain permanently wet areas • Waterbodies are limited to two farm dams with a sparse covering of aquatic vegetation • No threatened flora or fauna species were detected during the site surveys, although potential for four species exists. These are shown in Figure 2 for reference in case unexpected encounters occur • No significant pest issues have been identified across the WRSF Development Envelope.
EEC enhancement areas
Figure 1. Site layout including ecological constraints
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Small Snake Orchid (Diuris pedunculata) Bluegrass (Dicanthium setosum)
Silky Swainsona-pea (Swainsona sericea) Regent Honeyeater (Anthhocheara phrygia)
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Figure 2. Threatened species that have the potential to occur in the locality.
Summary of Potential Impacts The layout of the WRSF has been developed to avoid the majority of impacts to the EEC within the Development Envelope (see Figure 1). During construction, potential impacts to flora and fauna associated with the project include: • Habitat clearance for permanent and temporary infrastructure (e.g. solar infrastructure, compound sites, stockpile sites, access tracks, 33kV cable trenching). The CoA specifies that the development of the WRSF shall disturb: o No more than 0.48 ha of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland EEC for the access track (shown by the orange line in Figure 1) o No more than 0.21 ha of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland EEC for the establishment of the 33kV underground cable connecting the site to the nearby wind farm connection (shown by the blue line in Figure 1). • Accidental leaks and spills • Encroachment of weeds and pest along the boundary of the site and within it • Increased erosion within project area and downstream pollution of waters (e.g. sedimentation). During operation, potential impacts to flora and fauna associated with the project include: • Reduction in the quality and quantity of habitat for native flora and fauna species • Encroachment of weeds and pest along the boundary of the site and within it • Erosion issues associated with the installed infrastructure and downstream pollution of water.
Mitigation and Management Measures Flora and fauna mitigation and management measures are outlined in Table 1. These measures include those outlined in the CoA and the Environmental safeguards from the project Environmental Assessment to mitigate and manage environmental risks posed by the WRSF project. The mitigation and management measures address the key management areas of: • Vegetation clearing and protection • Fauna protection • Weed and pest management • Rehabilitation and vegetation enhancement.
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Table 1 – Flora and fauna management measures and controls during project design (D), construction (C) and Operational (O) phases.
Safeguard Project Stage Responsibility
D C O
Vegetation Clearing and Protection
The design should aim to avoid or minimise impacts to D EPC Contractor the areas identified as EEC. Specifically: - the cable route is to be micro-sited to avoid impacts to hollow bearing trees wherever feasible. - the compound sites and stockpile areas should be located outside areas of EEC and within the project Development Envelope - co-locate access tracks and electrical connections with existing access tracks or infrastructure where possible to minimise habitat disturbance
- Undertake a pre-clearing ecological inspection/survey C EPC Contractor to confirm the vegetation to be cleared (including e.g. tree hollows, threatened flora, weeds and riparian vegetation). This particularly applies to the 33kV cable route and the upgraded access track.
Cabling works within the WRWF shared infrastructure C EPC Contractor shall be undertaken in accordance with the WRWF environmental requirements, including the preparation of an Environmental Work Method Statement (EWMS) for 33kV cabling works which must be approved by the Environmental Representative. A sample EWMS for cable installation is provided at Attachment A, describing the process for the works.
Areas to be retained (indicated areas of EEC and indicated D C EPC Contractor trees) would be delineated (fencing or other agreed method), and construction activities would be excluded from these areas (i.e. ‘No Go Areas’). Clearing areas must be clearly demarcated to ensure no over-clearing occurs.
The Ecological Enhancement Area shall be C O EPC Contractor delineated with fencing (refer to Section 4.2 of Landscaping Plan) Where trees are to be retained, an adequate tree
protection zone is to be established
The development of the WRSF shall disturb: D C EPC Contractor
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- No more than 0.48 ha of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland EEC for the access track (shown by the orange line in Figure 1) - No more than 0.21 ha of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland EEC for the establishment of the 33kV underground cable connecting the site to the nearby wind farm connection (shown by the blue line in Figure 1).
Ground disturbance and vegetation removal shall be kept D C O EPC Contractor to as minimal as possible. This will also assist in minimising exposure of bare soils and potential erosion while minimising ongoing rehabilitation requirements.
Clearing and construction contractors would be given C EPC Contractor inductions that make clear the importance of hollow- bearing trees and EEC and to stay out of ‘No Go Areas’.
All ‘No Go Areas’ are to remain in place throughout the C EPC Contractor construction phase.
Felled vegetation is to be re-used on site wherever C EPC Contractor possible (e.g. mulched, chipped or beneficially reused to protect disturbed areas). Salvageable habitat features shall be relocated to adjacent areas of vegetation such as the EEC enhancement area (e.g. hollow logs and strewn rocks)
In line with the project CoA, the works within the C EPC Contractor Development Envelope should not require the removal of any hollow-bearing trees. If removal of a hollow-bearing tree is required, approval from the GWA Development Compliance Manager must be obtained prior to the tree removal occurring. If being removed: - Prior to clearing, the tree is to be knocked several times, with 30 second intervals between knocks. - Hollow-bearing limbs must be dismantled slowly. When on the ground, hollows are to be checked for signs of wildlife. - Relocate hollow limbs to areas of adjacent habitat.
Fauna Protection
Unless required for safety reasons, the design of the WRSF D EPC Contractor shall use non-barbed-wire fencing
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Direct contact with wildlife is to be avoided wherever C EPC Contractor possible, and limited to the spotter (or ecologist) where possible.
Injured wildlife are to be collected and taken to the nearest C EPC Contractor vet by the spotter, or by a licensed wildlife carer.
Access is to occur along designated access tracks only. C EPC Contractor
All speed limits are to be enforced to prevent the C EPC Contractor likelihood of fauna strike. If fauna strike occurs, injured wildlife are to be collected and taken to the nearest vet by the spotter, or by a licensed wildlife carer.
Domestic pets (other than the landowner’s work dogs) are C EPC Contractor not permitted on construction sites.
If trenches are left open, they are to be checked for native C EPC Contractor fauna each morning and evening by an on-site ecologist or the site environmental officer (or the installation of fauna escape ladders). Any trapped fauna is to be relocated.
Carry out refuelling of plant and equipment, chemical C EPC Contractor storage and decanting at least 50 m away from aquatic habitats in impervious bunds. Ensure that dry and wet spill kits are readily available
If night work is unavoidable, ensure lights are directed C EPC Contractor away from wildlife or habitat corridor (biodiversity links).
If a threatened flora or fauna species is unexpectedly C EPC Contractor encountered on site, work shall be stopped in that area and the Environmental Manager notified immediately. The Environmental Manager would arrange for an ecologist to conduct an assessment of significance of the likely impact, develop management options and notify OEH, DPI and the Commonwealth Department of Environment (as appropriate). If impacts can be avoided, then works can recommence ensuring regular inspections and monitoring. If impacts cannot be avoided, then further consultation with the relevant departments should occur to determine the appropriate path to progress. The matter should be included in subsequent inductions, pre- start meetings and the EMS updated.
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There are four threatened species that have potential to occur on site (but have not been observed to date). These are: - Small Snake Orchid (Diuris pedunculatus) - Bluegrass (Dicanthium setosum) - Silky Swainsona-pea (Swainsona sericea) - Regent Honeyeater (Anthhocheara phrygia)
Weed and Pest Management
A Weed Management Plan is provided at Appendix C of D C O EPC Contractor the project EMS. (during construction) WRWF Pty Ltd (during construction)
Prior to commencement of construction activities, any D C EPC Contractor significant pest animal infestations within the WRSF Development Footprint shall be identified. If deemed necessary, prior to construction, pest animal controls shall be implemented by an appropriately qualified, licenced and experienced Contractor (in consultation with the landowner). No significant pest species have been identified to date.
If significant pest animal infestations occur during C O EPC Contractor construction or operation activities, then pest animal (during construction) controls shall be implemented by an appropriately WRWF Pty Ltd qualified, licenced and experienced Contractor (in (during construction) consultation with the landowner).
If required, pest animal control shall be humane, strategic, C O EPC Contractor integrated and adopt best practice principles as outlined (during construction) in available publications (e.g. NSW DPI Humane Pest WRSFPL(during Animal control) operation)
Rehabilitation and Vegetation Enhancement
Rehabilitation shall be undertaken in all appropriate areas C EPC Contractor disturbed during construction. In native areas, it would include species that are representative of the EECs occurring within the WRSF Development Envelope to increase the diversity of the existing vegetation, as well as to improve the connectivity between patches in the landscape. Refer to the Landscaping Plan (Appendix F) for list of dominant native species. Areas of cultivated exotic vegetation (i.e. pasture) should be rehabilitated
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with an appropriate seed mix of pasture species. This should be done with prior consultation with the landowner. The following perennial seed mix (i.e. long term) has been developed for the WRWF pasture areas requiring rehabilitation: • 75% - Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) is a perennial grass adapted to a wide range of growing conditions • 20% - Phalaris (Phalaris aquatica) is the most persistent and productive temperate perennial pasture grass • 5% - White clover (Trifolium repens L.), Cocksfoot and Red Clover Cover crop including jap millet and rye must also be included in the seed mix to provide rapid temporary cover. Treat any noxious weeds prior to rehabilitation. Avoid re-establishing trees that may interfere with the efficient operation of the solar panels. Where rainfall is not sufficient, watering may be required.
Areas to be rehabilitated shall undergo suitable C EPC Contractor preparation (e.g. suitable top soil that adequately scarified/roughed) and seeding methodology. Additional stabilising mechanisms may be required to stabilise sloped areas and/or drainage lines (e.g. coir logs, rock armouring, seed binder, etc). The goal is for the final landform to be self-sustaining and require minimal maintenance. Works shall be undertaken by appropriately trained and experienced personnel.
Seed used for rehabilitation will need to be purchased C EPC Contractor from a reputable local seed supplier or locally sourced.
(a) the area of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy C O WRSFPL Woodland located to the north of the solar panels (as outlined in red in the figure in Figure 1) shall be enhanced (b) an additional area of at least 1 hectare of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland EEC shall be established and maintained within the project site (i.e. Development Envelope). This area is shown in the Landscaping Plan (Appendix F); (c) maintain the vegetation in these two areas; and (d) keep this vegetation free of weeds.
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An arrangement with a local provider is being sought to implement the above measures for the WRSF project. This may commence during construction but may be delayed until the completion of construction depending on safety, access and other logistical requirements.
The EEC enhancement and establishment area shall be C O EPC Contractor fenced off to delineate the area and to prevent cattle and construction vehicles entering, at the commencement (or prior to) construction occurring
Monitoring and Reporting Rehabilitation and Weed/Pest Infestation Monitoring Visual monitoring of rehabilitated areas will be conducted to ensure that revegetation is establishing and to determine the need for any maintenance and/or contingency measures. The rehabilitation monitoring measures will include: • Weekly inspections of rehabilitated areas as construction progresses • Monthly inspections and monitoring of rehabilitated areas to determine success and to ensure early detection of presence of weed species • Monitoring of the environmental conditions to ensure satisfactory rehabilitation and to prevent weed infestation in rehabilitated areas • Vegetation groundcover, particularly beneath the low edge of the panels, would be monitored and any bare areas or erosion addressed (ie. planting, jute mesh armouring, application of soil binder, etc.) to resist erosion and/or weed infestation Where rehabilitation monitoring identifies a requirement for maintenance, remedial works may include: • Repair of erosion (i.e. regrading of eroded areas) • Repair of drainage paths and de-silting of sediment control structures • Re-seeding • Application of lime or gypsum to control pH and improve soil structure • Bush fire management activities, and • Implementation of weed and feral animal control measures. Monitoring and maintenance activities will be ongoing with the results assessed and utilised in rehabilitation planning.
Attachment A – Environmental Work Method Statement for 33kV Cable trenching, installation and backfilling
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White Rock Solar Farm
ENVIRONMENTAL WORK METHOD STATEMENT (EWMS) 33Kv Cable trenching, Installation and backfilling
Introduction
1. Purpose The purpose of this EWMS is to: • ensure that all project personnel are aware of their environmental responsibilities and the environmental work method to be followed for the 33kV cable trenching, installation and backfilling. • Identify specific mitigation measures, procedures, checklists, permits and CEMP Sub-plans, to be implemented on site to manage environmental risks.
2. Scope This EWMS covers 33Kv Collection Circuits & Cable trenching and backfilling on the Project. 33Kv Collection Circuits & Cable trenching and backfilling involves trenching and backfilling.
3. Equipment Trencher, Excavator, Grader, Loader, Backhoe, Cable Reeler, Sand cart, Light truck, Telehandler, Mobile Crane. Refer to the relevant Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for a comprehensive list of plant and equipment.
4. Timing of Works 33Kv Collection Circuits & Cable trenching and backfilling will be undertaken during the construction phase.
5. Required Environmental Approvals The following environmental approvals are required prior to commencement of 33Kv Collection Circuits & Cable trenching and backfilling: • Environmental Representative (ER) approval of this EWMS • Pre-clearing Permit • Erosion and Sediment Control Plans (ESCPs)
6. Relevant Plans Plans showing relevant site features will be attached to this EWMS by the HSE Advisor upon finalisation of the cable route. The plans will be specific to the work location in which the EWMS is being used and may include: • Sensitive Area Plans (potential sensitive receivers, Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal heritage items/sites, Endangered Ecological Communities, local waterways, habitat trees etc.) • Progressive Erosion and Sediment Control Plans.
7. Monitoring The Environmental Manager and/or HSE Advisor will undertake inspections of the work sites in accordance with the approved CEMP to evaluate the effectiveness of environmental controls. The results of the inspections will be recorded in the Environmental Inspection Checklist. If any maintenance and/or deficiencies in environmental controls or in the standard of environmental performance are obser ved, they will be recorded on the Checklist. Records will also include details of any maintenance required, the nature of the deficiency, any actions required and an implementation priority. The completion of the actions will be monitored to ensure they are implemented within the timeframes specified in the Checklist.
8. Incident Response In the event of an incident the Foreman will give directions to stop work and immediately contact the: • HSE Advisor
All incidents and emergencies will be managed in accordance with the Emergency Response Plan.
The Environmental Representative will be notified verbally immediately of an incident. Incident reports will be provided to the Goldwind Australia( GWA) Representative and the Environmental Representative (ER) within 24 hours of becoming aware of the incident, including lessons learnt from each environmental incident and proposed measures to prevent the occurrence of a similar incident. All efforts will be undertaken immediately to avoid and reduce impacts of incidents and suitable controls put in place. Incidents will be close out as quickly as possible, taking all required action to resolve each environmental incident.
9. Relevant References • Erosion and Sediment Control Plans • Legal and Other Requirements (Appendix B CEMP) • Environmental Inspection Checklist • Environmental Risk Assessment Register (Appendix C CEMP) • Emergency Response Plan • MCR’s (Minor Consistency Review’s) • Waste Register • Ancillary Facility Checklists • Sensitive Area Plans • 33kV Cabling Minor Deviation Checklists • •
10. Risk Assessment Methodology The below risk assessment methodology was used to evaluate the risk level associated with each of the activities listed in the Work Method.
Appendix B EWMS 33Kv Cable installation_5Mar18.doc Page 1 of 4 Work Method
Sequence of Work Post- Pre- Responsibility Activities Potential Hazards Mitigation measures Control # Control Who will ensure that controls How will the work be What harm can occur? How can the risk be minimised? Risk Risk are in place? done? Prior to Works Commencing 1 Planning of Works Works commencing without Project Engineer / Foreman / ▪ Identify all environmental approvals, permits and licences required for the works, ensure they are in place and conditions approval Environmental Manager (EM) adhered to. Medium High 17 / HSE Advisor 8 ▪ Prepare a Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP) for the particular section of works and obtain sign off from the HSE Project Engineer Advisor. Community are exposed to Medium ▪ Identify nearest sensitive receivers prior to works and plan works accordingly. Project Engineer Low 5 impacts without prior notice 13 ▪ Obtain permission to access private property prior to the commencement of works, where applicable. Project Engineer Works are not carried out within Medium Foreman ▪ Plan to undertake works during standard construction hours Low 5 the approved hours 12 Project Engineer Environmentally Project Engineer / HSE Medium ▪ Review Sensitive Area Plans and identify environmental 'No-Go' or exclusion areas prior to works commencing. sensitive areas i.e. Advisor / Foreman 13 Environmental 'No-Go' or exclusion areas include, for example, Endangered Ecological Communities (EECs), Aboriginal Low 5 Environmental ‘No-Go’ or and non-Aboriginal heritage sites/items and threatened flora and fauna. exclusion areas not identified 2 Provide training to Non-compliance with agreed ▪ Toolbox Project Engineer, Foreman and work crew on the content of this EWMS, any specific procedures relevant for their EM/ HSE Advisor personnel and sub- work methods Medium work activity, ESCP/ PESCP, clearing limits, ‘No-Go’ or exclusion areas and areas where residents are located close to Low 5 contractors involved 8 work activities. ▪ Ensure construction personnel are site inducted. Foreman / Superintendent Access Work Area 3 Install Environmental Damage to environmentally ▪ Erect exclusion fencing and signage to ensure that environmentally sensitive areas are identified and protected Foreman / HSE Advisor ‘No-Go’ or exclusion sensitive areas i.e. Medium High 21 ▪ In the event that clearing works occur beyond the approved area, works must stop immediately and the incident reported fencing Environmental ‘No-Go’ or and investigation undertaken to determine the extent of impact. 8 exclusion areas 4 Install erosion and Uncontrolled run-off impacting ▪ Install erosion and sediment controls for each particular section of works in accordance with the ESCP. In conjunction with Foreman / HSE Advisor Medium sediment controls soil and polluting waterways High 18 Clearing and Grubbing, topsoil stripping and stock piling, ERSED controls to be progressively assessed and installed. 8 Each area to be assessed and appropriate controls installed as agreed by all parties. 5 Vegetation Clearing Clearing outside approved ▪ Follow procedures outlined in the project Flora and Fauna Management Plan (FFMP). areas ▪ Undertake a pre-clearing ecological inspection/survey to confirm the vegetation to be cleared (including e.g. tree hollows, threatened flora, weeds and riparian vegetation) High 18 ▪ Clearly demarcate extent of clearing works required. The extent of disturbance / clearing is to be clearly demarcated with fencing, spray paint, flagging tape, barricade webbing or similar, depending on the duration of the disturbance. Areas outside of demarcated extents are considered to be no go zones 6 Weed Management Spread of weeds ▪ Weeds to be managed in line with the project FFMP and Weed Management Plan
▪ Machinery to be cleaned prior to entering site, and when crossing property boundaries as per project arrangements. Excavation/33kV Cable Installation/Backfilling ▪ Undertake works during standard construction hours: Monday to Friday 7.00am to 6.00pm; and Saturday 8.00am to Foreman 1.00pm. Project Engineer ▪ Position site access points and roads as far as practicable away from residential receivers. Project Manager/ Superintendent ▪ Plan and conduct works in a manner to minimise the reversing of vehicles with audible reversing alarms. Foreman ▪ Ensure that truck tailgates are cleared and locked at the point of unloading. Foreman/ Truck Driver ▪ Do not use vehicle warning devices, such as horns, as signalling devices. Foreman/ Truck Driver Impact to receivers due to Medium High 17 ▪ Undertake regular maintenance of plant and equipment to ensure that noise emissions do not increase over time. Foreman/ Truck Driver noise and/or vibration 8 ▪ Turn vehicles and machinery off when not in use. Foreman/ Truck Driver/ Site Workers ▪ Orient plant and equipment known to emit noise strongly in one direction so that the noise is directed away from noise Foreman/ Site Workers sensitive areas. ▪ Avoid metal-to-metal contact on equipment where feasible. Foreman/ Truck Driver/ Site Workers ▪ Avoid dropping material from a height into unlined metal trays (e.g. line trays with soil or similar to reduce drumming Foreman/ Truck Driver/ Site noise). Worker Impact to air quality ▪ Dust suppression as required Medium Foreman High 17 ▪ Limit speeds to 40km/h throughout site or reduced speed as per sign posts 8 Site Workers Erosion and sedimentation ▪ Implement erosion and sediment controls for each particular section of works in accordance with the PESCP and the Foreman results in pollution of waterways High 18 measures outlined in the Construction Soil and Water Quality Management Plan. This includes the separation and Low 5 and impact on aquatic wildlife appropriate backfill of topsoil and subsoil. ▪ Consider weather conditions prior to commencing works. Foreman/ Project Engineer
Fire danger Medium ▪ No burning or incineration of waste on site. All Low 4 13 ▪ Cease potential fire causing activities during designated “Total Fire Ban” days. All Damage to flora and ▪ No admittance is allowed into Environmental 'No-Go' or exclusion areas without prior approval of the Environmental All Rehabilitation Manager, this includes pedestrian traffic. ▪ The disturbance footprint is to be minimised within the cable easement as part of the works All
▪ Remove and store vegetated topsoil (sod) so that it can be replaced on the trench to provide immediate erosion protection All High 21 after backfilling is completed. Store topsoil separately from any subsoil overburden so that when the trench is to be refilled, Low 5 the topsoil can be replaced above the subsoil ▪ Areas of disturbed ground are to be rehabilitated promptly and progressively once the cable has been installed. The All approved seed mix shall be used for rehabilitation. ▪ Remind Workers of Environmental ‘No-Go’ or exclusion areas during pre-start meetings. Foreman/Project Engineer Injury to fauna ▪ Trenches should be backfilled as soon as possible after being opened and cable installed, preferably on the same day as All Excavation/33kV the trench is opened. Medium ▪ If trenches are left open, they are to be checked for native fauna each morning and evening by the site environmental 7 Cable Low 5 Installation/Backfilling 8 representative. Any trapped fauna is to be removed without harming the fauna. ▪ Should fauna relocate into the work area during work activities, stop work within the vicinity of the fauna and notify the site environmental representative. Introduction or spread of ▪ Ensure that machinery is free of weeds prior to entry to the worksite and prior to leaving the work site when moving Foreman Medium noxious and/or invasive weeds between different landowner properties. Low 5 13 ▪ Stockpile noxious and/or invasive weed material separately from topsoil. Erect signage “Weed infested – do not spread”. Damage to heritage ▪ If a suspected heritage item or human remains are found, stop work within the vicinity of the item and notify the Foreman. All The Foreman will then contact the HSE Advisor immediately following the Chance Finds Protocol (see Appendix D of High 18 EMS). Low 5 ▪ Remind Workers of Environmental ‘No-Go’ or exclusion areas during pre-start meetings. Foreman Contamination risks to Medium ▪ In the event that contamination is identified, stop work within the vicinity of the suspected contamination and notify the All Low 5 environment or human health 9 Foreman. The Foreman will then contact the HSE Advisor immediately. ▪ Keep liquid chemicals and fuels in bunded storage areas or sheds that have the capacity to contain spills from leaky Project Engineer/ HSE containers or from an incident involving a decanting activity. Ensure the bunded capacity is at least 120% of the total Advisor capacity of all containers stored inside the bunded area or shed. Storing as per any requirements noted in the Hazardous substance SDS. ▪ Conduct refuelling, maintenance of equipment, vehicle servicing, washing construction plant and handling hazardous Foreman/ Truck Driver/ Site chemicals to bunded areas away from watercourses and other environmentally sensitive areas in locations approved by Worker Improper storage, use and the EO. spills of hazardous liquids and Medium ▪ Provide spill kits at each fuel/chemical storage area. Low 5 Foreman HSE Advisor chemicals 13 ▪ Promptly contain and collect any spills using spill kits. Foreman/ Truck Driver/ Site Worker ▪ Locate chemical storage areas away from creeks and above the 20 year ARI flood level. EO/ Project Engineer/ Foreman ▪ Set back pumps and generators from waterways to the maximum extent practicable and operate them in bunded areas to Foreman/ Site Worker reduce potential spill risks. Machinery tracks across or ▪ Cross waterways (vehicle/ plant/ equipment) only at designated and appropriately constructed crossing locations. All along the bed of a waterway (other than a dry waterway) High 18 Med 10 resulting in pollution of waterway and impact on aquatic wildlife Ignition of vegetative material ▪ No burning or incineration of cleared vegetation on site. All Medium Low 4 9 ▪ Cease potential fire causing activities during designated “Total Fire Ban” days. All
Spread of weeds ▪ Refer to same mitigation measures under Weed Management (Item #6) above High 18
Waste Disposal
Appendix B EWMS 33Kv Cable installation_5Mar18.doc Page 2 of 4 Sequence of Work Post- Pre- Responsibility Activities Potential Hazards Mitigation measures Control # Control Who will ensure that controls How will the work be What harm can occur? How can the risk be minimised? Risk Risk are in place? done? Disposing of waste Inappropriate disposal of waste ▪ Apply the waste hierarchy (reduce or avoid waste, reuse waste, recycle waste, recover energy, treat waste, dispose of All materials waste). ▪ Classify all wastes generated on the site during construction in accordance with the 2009 Waste Classification Guidelines HSE Advisor prior to transporting waste off site. ▪ Provide waste receipts/dockets for all wastes removed from site to the Foreman. The Foreman will then forward this All Medium information to the HSE Advisor for tracking purposes. 8 Low 5 17 ▪ Record all waste removed from site in the Waste Register. HSE Advisor
▪ Ensure that a ‘Notice under Section 143’ form has been completed prior to transporting material offsite to unlicensed Foreman/ Project Engineer/ premises. HSE Advisor ▪ Ensure that all requirements of the relevant resource recovery exemption have been met prior to importing or exporting fill Foreman/Project from an external source. Engineer/HSE Advisor
Toolbox – 33Kv Collection Circuits & Cable trenching and backfilling
The objective of this toolbox is to ensure that all project personnel are aware of their responsibilities and the environmental work method to be followed during general earthworks. ▪ Work hours are Weekdays 7am-6pm and Saturday 8am – 1pm. ▪ Public complaints to be communicated to Goldwind immediately. ▪ Know the location of the nearest noise sensitive receivers. ▪ Identify (e.g. by fencing, signage, flagging tape/rope, spray paint) the following prior to works commencing: o Vegetation Clearing boundaries o Environmental ‘No-Go’ or exclusion areas – no works permitted within environmental 'No-Go' or exclusion areas (e.g. Endangered Ecological Communities (EECs), Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal heritage sites/items and threatened flora and fauna). o Should these boundaries be breached, the foreman is to be notified immediately, works must be stopped and investigation undertaken to determine the potential impact ▪ Plan work to avoid leaving trenches open overnight. If any trench is left open, these should be checked at the start of the day for any trapped fauna. Should fauna relocate into the work area during activities, stop work within the vicinity of the fauna and notify the Foreman. The Foreman will then notify the HSE Advisor immediately. ▪ No earthworks 15m either side of waterways until immediately before construction commences in the area ▪ Consider weather conditions prior to commencing works ▪ Take care not to spread noxious weeds and/or invasive weed material. Stockpile noxious and/or invasive weed material separately from topsoil and mulch. Erect signage “Weed infested material – do not spread’. ▪ Do not enter Environmental 'No-Go' or exclusion areas without prior approval of the HSE Advisor, this includes pedestrian traffic. ▪ Cover all loads that enter or leave the site. ▪ Ensure that truck tailgates are cleared and locked at the point of unloading. ▪ Remove mud spilt by construction traffic from public roads as soon as practicable. ▪ Restrict construction traffic to designated roadways. ▪ Turn machinery and vehicles off when not in use. ▪ Apply the waste hierarchy (reduce or avoid waste, reuse waste, recycle waste, recover energy, treat waste, dispose of waste). ▪ Information (including waste receipts/dockets) regarding re-use, recycling and disposal of all waste streams must be given to the Foreman. The Foreman will then forward this information to the HSE Advisor for tracking purposes. ▪ If a suspected heritage item, human remains or potential contamination is found, stop work and notify the Foreman. The Foreman will then notify the HSE Advisor immediately. ▪ Know the location of spill kits prior to commencing works ▪ Conduct refueling, maintenance of equipment, vehicle servicing, washing construction plant and handling hazardous chemicals to bunded areas away from watercourses and other environmentally sensitive areas in locations approved by the HSE Advisor. ▪ Refueling of plant and equipment must be done 50m away from creeks, drains and water flow paths in locations approved by the HSE Advisor. ▪ No unauthorized waterway crossings to be constructed. ▪ Cross waterways (vehicle/ plant/ equipment) only at designated and appropriately constructed crossing locations. ▪ The Foreman will then notify the HSE Advisor ▪ Ensure a fire extinguisher or water source is available at the immediate work site. ▪ Clean up rubbish, off cuts and discarded materials frequently from worksite. ▪ Keep the likes of hoses and electrical leads off the ground or out of the worksite area as much as possible. ▪ On total fire ban days firefighting equipment must be in close proximity to the plant in operation.
Signoff We the undersigned, confirm that the EWMS nominated above has been explained and its contents are clearly understood. We also clearly understand the controls in this EWMS must be applied as documented or as shown on the Drawings and Erosion Sediment Control Plans. These documents will be revised as required to reflect site conditions or to reflect advice received from relevant experts. Works will not proceed without changes being incorporated onto these documents.
Name Position Employer Signature Induction No. Date
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Document Control Phone Numbers
EWMS Revision No: HSE Advisor: EWMS: 33Kv Cable trenching, installation and backfilling Senior Project Engineer: Revision Date: Review Due: Project Engineer:
Prepared By: Project Engineer: Signature: Date:
Accepted By HSE Advisor: Signature: Date:
Accepted By General Foreman: Signature: Date:
Accepted By Senior Project Engineer: Signature: Date:
Review
Review No: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Name & Initials
Date:
Name & Initials
Date: Description of change(s)
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Appendix C Weed Management Plan
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Weed Management Plan White Rock Solar Farm TC-10411 Weed Management Plan – Rev A1 Date: 19/03/2017
Weed Management Plan
For
Goldwind – White Rock Solar Farm
March 2017
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REVISION AND DISTRIBUTION
This Plan and any subsequent revisions/updating shall be coordinated and approved by the UGL Engineering Project Manager before re-issue of this page and changed pages described in the revision table below.
Approval and Revision Record
Rev Description Page/s Author Approvals Date
UGL UGL Client HSE Project Manager Manager A0 DRAFT for internal review 10 T. Wilson NM TH GW 12/05/16
A1 Early works Stefan SN AT GW 20/03/17 Nightingale
0.1 Distribution Record Where required maintained copies of this document are issued by the Project Manager to the customer and applicable external organisations. When an update is issued, it is the responsibility of the holder to replace superseded material with the current issue. Superseded material should be "DESTROYED" or marked "SUPERSEDED” as appropriate. A master copy of any document covered by this procedure is filed in the relevant project file, by the document register’s sequential number.
0.2 Confidentiality This work is confidential and may not be disclosed in whole or in part without the written authority of UGL Limited. This work and the information and concepts contained in it are the copyright of UGL Limited. Use or copying of the work in whole or in part without the written authority of UGL Limited infringes copyright
0.3 Distribution Table
Position / Location No Comment UGL’s HSE Manager 1 For Approval / Information Goldwind Superintendent 1 For Approval UGL’s Project Manager 1 For Records Site Engineers, Site Supervisors, 1 For Information & Actions Quality Rep’s
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Table of Context
REVISION AND DISTRIBUTION ...... 2
1 INTRODUCTION ...... 4
2 SCOPE OF PLAN ...... 4
3 OBJECTIVES ...... 5
4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 5
5 EXISTING ENVIRONMENTS ...... 5
6 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ...... 7
7 MANAGEMENT STRATEGY AND CONTROLS ...... 7
8 RESPONSIBILITIES DURING CONSTRUCTION ...... 8
9 MONITORING AND REPORTING ...... 9
APPENDIX A - RECORD OF PESTICIDE/HERBICIDE USE FORM ...... 10
APPENDIX B – GLEN INNES SEVERN COUNCIL CLASS 4 WEED MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 12
APPENDIX C – NSW DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRY – NOXIOUS AND ENVIRONEMTNAL WEED CONTROL HANDBOOK ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
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1 INTRODUCTION
This Weed Management Plan (WeMP) has been prepared to help develop strategies to reduce the potential for spreading weeds on site and off site during the construction phase of the Goldwind – White Rock Solar Farm Development.
The design scope of work is detailed in the Goldwind - Environmental Impact Statement – White Rock Solar Farm, SSD 16_7487 is generally described below:
Solar panel arrays: o Approximately 75,000 polycrystalline panels;
Mounting framework: o The solar panels would be secured on a galvanised steel structure that consists of a frame secured to posts that have been pile driven into the ground; o In the unlikely event that the posts cannot be pile driven, a ballasted solution may be Investigated; o A fixed panel arrangement to enable panels, at a tilt of between 15 and 30 degrees to the horizontal, to optimise solar incidence and achieve optimum efficiency; Internal Direct Current (DC) wiring between panels and inverter systems within groups of panels; Connection of groups of panels to Power Conversion Blocks (PCBs) within the area of the solar arrays; Typically eight PCBs with a total output up to approximately 20 MW (AC) including: o Inverter modules (container based modules) of the order of 1 to 2.75 MW; o Typically eight step‐up transformers to 33 kV (one transformer per PCB); o 33 kV switchgear at each PCB;
33 kV cabling to link the WRSF output to the WRWF collections circuits; Access tracks for access to the site during construction and to the PCBs during operation; Fencing around the solar farm for security and safety; Monitoring equipment; Small permanent site building, approximately 12 m by 12 m in area; Co‐use of the WRWF Operations and Maintenance Building for the operational phase;
The WRSF Project would operate for approximately 25 years.
2 SCOPE OF PLAN
This Weed Management Plan (WeMP) has been prepared to specify and document the environmental controls, criteria and procedures associated with the Goldwind – White Rock Solar Farm Development. This plan covers the roles of personnel and contractors as well as their communication and interrelationship with the Proponent, Goldwind.
The arrangement for the Project, all companies, contractors and sub-contractors undertaking work on this Project must comply with this plan.
This is one of a suite of documents created to manage the timely and safe execution of this project, and must be read in conjunction with the relevant project Environmental Management Strategy (EMS), DPI requirements and relevant local Council Document (Appendix B).
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3 OBJECTIVES
This WeMP sets the weed management and protection protocols that will be observed during all phases of proposed works. Specifically, the Weed Management Plan aims to: • prevent the introduction of weeds; • control, and if possible reduce existing weed populations; and • maintain rehabilitated areas free of noxious weeds.
4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The key characteristics of the project are detailed in Table 1. Table 1 Project Details
Project Component Description Customer Goldwind Project Type White Rock Solar Farm Development Location White Rock Wind Farm (WRWF) Construction Methodology 20 MW Solar Farm Access Gwydir Highway, Matheson NSW Project operating hours 7:00am – 6:00pm Mon.- Fri, 7:00am – 8:00am - 1:00pm Sat. Noise Generating Hours 7:00am – 6:00pm Mon.- Fri, 7:00am – 8:00am - 1:00pm Sat. Project Duration Approximately 6 month Project Design Commencement March 2017 Project Site works Commencement May 2017
5 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT S
An existing Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) of the proposed land has been carried out by ngh Environmental – Goldwind - Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) – White Rock Solar Farm, SSD 16_7487, section 8.1.2. Within this study a number of noxious weeds relevant to the local area were identified. These weeds were:
Class 4 weeds: Patersons Curse Coolatai Grass African Lovegrass Chilean Needle Grass Bathurst Burr Nodding Thistle Blackberry Fireweed
Therefore, contractors shall adopt the following methodology, which assumes onsite weeds are currently uncontrolled. These weeds will be controlled by contractors during the course of proposed development.
Furthermore, mitigation measures shall be adopted to ensure the spread of weed onto site and/or leaving site during the construction phase are controlled. In addition, periodical inspections will be
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carried out to ensure any new weeds are treated and removed to help prevent the spread or outbreak of noxious weeds.
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6 POTENTIAL IMPACTS
During the construction phase excavation and trenching activities will result in soil disturbance and the potential to spread weeds. Alternatively importation of seeds by heavy plant, light vehicles or even wildlife could potentially occur during the construction phase.
At this stage it is propose controlling these weeds in accordance with local Council requirements (Appendix B). These noxious weeds can potentially cause a negative impact through the following activities: • Spread of existing weed infestations due to disturbance and vehicle traffic; • Untidy and bare infrastructure areas; and • Dead or weed infested revegetated areas.
7 MANAGEMENT STRATEGY AND CONTROLS
The EMS nominates the following compliance criteria: • Undertake management and disposal of any noxious weeds in consultation with the Glen Innes Severn Council Class 4 Weed Management Plan. Refer Appendix B; • Weed debris and weed-contaminated debris is to be disposed of at an approved waste management centre; • Remove noxious weeds encountered throughout construction; • Check the site for weed growth during the weekly site inspection and suppress as necessary; • Carry out physical hand removal of weeds with minimal disturbance to surrounding ground as required; • Regularly inspect and monitor areas to identify and manage new weed outbreak; • Inspect the construction site for any trapped or injured fauna at the start of each day; • Cover trenches and excavations at the end of each day and inspect before they are backfilled; • Do not use any exotic vegetation, noxious weeds, and associated leaf litter in the landscaping works; • that all vehicles entering site need to be clean and weed free; any material imported to site needs to be declared weed free, etc. • Install weed washdown at laydown or other suitable area (with pressurised water) for any vehicles that deviate off the access roads into vegetated areas and to clean muddy vehicles before they exit onto public roads.
In addition to that, the following weed management strategies are to be applied: • Hand-removal and other manual techniques are to be used where possible and economically feasible, and use of herbicides avoided/ minimised, particularly spray application; • Herbicide and/ or pesticide application is to be administered by authorised personnel only (i.e. ChemCert Accreditation – AQF 3), in accordance with WorkCover requirements; • Any herbicide/ pesticide application is to be recorded on the “Record of Pesticide & Herbicide use” form (Appendix A); • Hygiene protocols should be employed. All machinery used within the site is to be thoroughly cleaned by removing all plant material, dust or soil, and any accumulation of grease from the machine prior to the commencement of construction. This measure will reduce the potential spread of environmental weeds, particularly exotic grasses; • All weeds removed (particularly those bearing seeds) are to be disposed of appropriately at a licensed landfill. NOTE that noxious weeds are not to be sent to green waste recycling facilities. If soil and noxious weed materials are mixed then this must be buried as landfill waste; • Maintain existing groundcover for as long as possible prior to disturbance works i.e. excavation;
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• Restrict vehicular access to roads/ cleared areas only; • The status of weeds species is to be included on the weekly site inspection checklists so that they are controlled at the construction sites and especially within rehabilitation areas.
Access roads • To reduce the spread of weeds, all access routes are to be maintained in a weed free or reduced state to lessen the spread of weed seed by vehicle movements. Noxious weeds are to be sprayed or removed in accordance with any Council noxious weed plans (attached in Appendix B).
Topsoil Stockpiling • Stockpile control measures are to be employed including separate stockpiling, herbicide spraying of stripped soils, disposal as fill of soil materials infested with weeds. These strategies are to be implemented to control weed infestation both before and after re-use e.g. in rehabilitation. All topsoil stockpiles are to be regularly monitored and managed for weed infestation.
Disposal of weeds • Weeds are to be segregated and bagged (where possible) when disposing offsite; • Transport must be covered with heavy tarp to further reduce the potential for weed propagules to disperse and escape on route to the landfill.
Rehabilitation • Only topsoil from areas with no noxious or highly invasive weed species should be re-used in rehabilitation and landscaping; • Rehabilitate disturbed areas as soon as practical following placement and shaping of spoil; • Post construction soil disturbance is to be kept to a minimum, and stabilisation of any exposed soils is to be undertaken immediately (within 1 week) following weed removal.
8 RESPONSIBILITIES DURING CONSTRUCTION
Project Manager • To initiate the Weed Management Plan at the start of onsite works; and • To ensure the Weed Management Plan is reviewed and approved should deficiencies be encountered.
HSE Representative / Environmental Advisor • To action or facilitate the implementation of the directives of the Weed Management Plan as defined by contractual and regulatory arrangement; • To regularly monitor the controls and initiatives implemented as part of the Weed Management Plan; • To promptly communicate any issues arising to the Project Manager for rectification; and • To ensure all interim controls are removed at the completion of project works unless otherwise directed.
All Contractors • To understand and action the relevant CEMP, sub plans and Weed Management Plan as directed; • To follow environmental procedures; and • To promptly communicate any environmental issues or incidents to their supervisor, Project Manager or the Environmental Advisor.
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9 MONITORING AND REPORTING
Monitoring is to be undertaken by the proposed Project Manager (or delegated other) whilst weekly monitoring will be assigned to the Environmental Advisor. Particular attention is to be given to construction boundary areas and rehabilitated areas.
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APPENDIX A - RECORD OF PESTICIDE/HERBICIDE USE FORM
Record of pesticide and herbicide use
Date:
Time of application Start: Finish:
Location(s) Boundaries of application (attach map/plan)
Weeds/pests targeted and reason for use
Pesticides/herbicides applied
Wetting agent applied
Volumes applied
Rate(s) of application
Method of Hand-gun from spray truck Boom-spray application/equipment Hand-held backpack Spot-spray used Other (describe):
Wind strength
Wind direction
Weather Fine Light showers Rain Cold Cool Warm Hot Temperature:
Rainfall preceding Yes No application?
Drift off target? Yes No
Safety precautions Rubber boots Rubber gloves Spray overalls Respirator Helmet Waders Eye protection
Applicator details
Name
Position
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Record of pesticide and herbicide use
Qualification to use pesticides/herbicides Note: Minimum Unit of Competency required: - Unit AHCCHM201A (Apply Chemicals under Supervision) Pesticide users should, wherever possible, attain: - Unit AHCCHM303A (Prepare and Apply Chemicals) - Unit AHCCHM304A (Transport, Handle and Store Chemicals)
Contact details
Supervisor (if required)
Additional comments
Note: records of pesticide use are to be kept for a minimum of 3 years and a copy provided to the Site Supervisor within 24 hours of use, in accordance with the Pesticide Amendment (Records) Regulation 2001
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APPENDIX B – GLEN INNES SEVERN COUNCIL CLASS 4 WEED MANAGEMENT PLAN Also available online: http://www.gisc.nsw.gov.au/sites/gleninnes/files/public/images/documents/gisc/polici es%20-%20public%20documents/weeds%20management%20plan.pdf
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Appendix D Cultural Heritage Management Plan
Introduction The White Rock Solar Farm (WRSF) Project includes the construction and operation of a solar farm approximately 20 kilometres (km) west of Glen Innes, in northern NSW. The WRSF project was approved in June 2016. The proposal involves the construction of a solar farm and includes access roads, connection to the nearby substation with underground electricity cabling (see Figure 1). The majority of impacts will be confined to the site footprint area of the solar arrays, located on level areas with low archaeological potential and no identified surface sites. Disturbances will largely be in the removal of limited surface vegetation, which is all mixed pasture, crop stubble or weeds, for the installation of the infrastructure and access tracks. Poles would be driven or screwed into the ground in order to support the solar array’s mounting system and solar panels, with racking systems to allow the installation of solar panels. Ground disturbance in the form of trenching would also be required to install the underground cabling to connect the solar farm to the nearby substation. Once the solar farm has been established, there would be minimal ongoing disturbance of the ground surface. An Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment Report (ACHAR) was prepared as part of the Project Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). This Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) details how potential impacts to Aboriginal and historic heritage will be avoided, minimised and/or managed during construction works. It presents a set of mitigation measures and protocols that: • describe how risks associated with heritage during WRSF construction activities will be managed and controlled • address the requirements of applicable legislation • meet the Project Conditions of Approval (CoA) • address the safeguards identified in the White Rock Solar Farm Environmental Impact Statement.
Objectives and targets Objectives for the management of heritage are: • to avoid, minimise and/or mitigate impacts to heritage throughout the WRSF project • to ensure compliance with all relevant CoA and legislative requirements Targets for the management of heritage include: • 100% compliance with applicable legislation, Project CoA, guidelines and standards applicable to the CHMP • compliance with 100% of the commitments detailed in the EMS.
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Ecological enhancement areas
Figure 1: WRSF Development Envelope and project Aboriginal Heritage Background The Development Envelope is located between the towns of Inverell and Glen Innes. At the time of European settlement in the region, the area in the vicinity of Inverell was believed to have been inhabited by Anaiwan (Nganyaywana) speaking Aboriginal people (Tindale 1974). The area closer to Glen Innes was (probably) inhabited by a related group known as the Ngarrabul (Ngarabal, Ngarrbul) (Tindale 1974). The Anaiwan and Ngarrabal people are thought to have utilised the majority of the area north of the Macintyre River, making use of a broad range of natural resources. Occupation seems to have been focused on the riverine margins, the McIntyre River and perennial creeks, but also traversed a variety of landform units away from the major water sources for the gathering of resources and hunting. Most archaeological assessment that has occurred within the Glen Innes area has been for the purpose of assessing potential impacts from proposed developments. Results of these surveys show that Aboriginal sites are present in a range of landforms. In general, small artefact scatters tend to be present in the proximity of small drainage or creek lines. Scarred trees tend to be located along ridge crests.
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Legal and Other Guidelines The applicable legal and other requirements related to heritage for the Project include:
Commonwealth Legislation Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984
State Legislation National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974
Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979
Heritage Protection Act 1984
Other Standards, Policies Due Diligence Code of Practice for the Protection of Aboriginal and Guidelines Objects in New South Wales (DECCW, 2010)
Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Consultation Requirements for Proponents 2010 (OEH, 2010a) (Consultation Requirements)
Guide to investigating, assessing and reporting on Aboriginal cultural heritage in NSW (OEH 2011)
Code of Practice for Archaeological Investigation of Aboriginal Objects in NSW (OEH 2010b)
Assessment Summary The project heritage assessments included databases searches, consultation and a site surveys. The NSW OEH Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System (AHIMS) search did not identify any recorded sites within or adjacent to the proposed WRSF Development Envelope. Consultation with the Aboriginal community was undertaken in accordance with the Consultation Guidelines for Proponents NSW (OEH 2010) and the site survey was completed in February 2016 in accordance with the Code of Practice for Archaeological Investigation of Aboriginal Objects in NSW (OEH 2010). Consultation with registered Aboriginal stakeholders did not identify any places with cultural or spiritual significance within the WRSF Development Envelope. The site surveys did not identify any heritage sites or areas of Potential Archaeological Deposit (PAD) within the Development Envelope. Due to the high level of European land use activities within the Development Envelope, and its location away from a water sources, it is considered:
• Unlikely that any archaeological sites would remain within this area. • The potential for the site area to contain unidentified Aboriginal sites is extremely low.
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Based on the land use history of the Development Envelope and an appraisal of the area from the field survey, there is negligible potential for the presence of intact subsurface deposits. Whilst not intensively surveyed, the Development Envelope is considered to hold an overall low potential for unrecorded sites. As the WRSF is State Significant Development, an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit is not required for the WRSF Project, regardless of whether Aboriginal sites were recorded. The desktop searches and site visit did not identify any heritage (non-Aboriginal) items or places within the Development Envelope. The project would not have a significant impact on heritage items or places and no specific heritage approvals are required. Despite the project presenting low risks to Aboriginal heritage, a number of safeguards were proposed. These are presented in the mitigation section of this CHMP.
Consultation The Registered Aboriginal Groups (RAPs) who registered interest as part of the WRSF EIS were: • Anaiwan Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC) • Glen Innes LALC • Anaiwan Traditional Owners • Jukambal The project RAPs were consulted again during the preparation of this CHMP and invited to provide comment on the document. One response was received on 3rd March 2017 by Anaiwan LALC and is provided at Attachment 2. The response supported the methodology and management plans within the CHMP to protect Aboriginal Cultural Heritage sites within the project area. The response also recommended that any new areas not previously assessed are physically assessed using identified Aboriginal Stakeholders and that wherever possible, appropriately trained and experienced Aboriginal people be employed in monitoring and in on-ground positions to help minimise the risk to Aboriginal Cultural Heritage on site. Response to Anaiwan LALC feedback WRSFPL acknowledges the response received from Anaiwan LALC and will consider the suggested recommendations throughout the project phases, particularly if impacts are proposed in any areas that were not previously included in the previous inspection undertaken by the RAPs. Monitoring of the works by Aboriginal people is not proposed for the works. No Aboriginal Sites or areas of PAD were identified during the previous surveys and the Development Envelope was determined to have an extremely low potential of containing unidentified artefacts. As such there is limited benefit in undertaking monitoring of these works. The induction process will cover Aboriginal Heritage including the Chance Finds Protocol and mitigation measures. This approach is deemed suitable for the proposed works, however will be reconsidered if there are significant changes to the nature of the works.
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Conditions of Approval The WRSF Project Approval includes several Conditions of Approval (CoA) relating to Cultural Heritage. The CoA also specify that the development shall be carried out generally in accordance with the EIS. The consolidated CoA are provided below, demonstrating how each has been addressed.
Reference No. Condition How it has been addressed
Conditions of Approval from Development Consent (SSD 7487)
Schedule 3, Chance Finds Refer to Mitigation No.16 Measures of this CHMP Prior to commencement of construction, the Applicant shall prepare a Chance Finds Protocol for the development in consultation with the Aboriginal Stakeholders, and to the satisfaction of OEH.
Schedule 3, Management of Aboriginal Heritage Items Addressed in this CHMP No.17 The Applicant shall carry out the following in consultation with the Aboriginal stakeholders: (a) minimise the disturbance of any unexpected heritage items identified on site; (b) relocate any heritage items that would be disturbed by the development to suitable alternative locations on the site prior to carrying out any construction on site; (c) implement the Chance Finds Protocol; and (d) protect all heritage items on site, including those that would remain in situ as well as those that are relocated, from any impact.
Schedule 3, Discovery of Human Remains Refer to Mitigation No.18 Measures of this CHMP If human remains are discovered on site, then all work surrounding the area shall cease, and the area must be secured. The Applicant shall notify OEH as soon as possible following the discovery, and work shall not recommence in the area until this is authorised by OEH.
Heritage Safeguards from EIS (SSD 7487)
If removal of mature trees in relation to installation AH 1 Mitigation included in of the 33 kV cable is required, these would be CHMP. Aim to avoid or checked for scars prior to removal, and if present the minimise removal of scar should then be examined by a qualified heritage mature trees for the 33kV practitioner and RAPs to assess if the scar is cultural. cable installation.
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If any culturally scarred trees are identified by the above process, avoidance by redesign of the cable alignment should be undertaken.
AH 2 WRSFPL would prepare a Cultural Heritage Addressed with this Management Plan (CHMP) to address the potential CHMP. for finding Aboriginal artefacts during the construction of the WRSF. The CHMP will outline an unexpected finds protocol to deal with construction activity. Preparation of the CHMP should be undertaken in consultation with the RAPs.
AH 3 In the unlikely event that human remains are Refer to Mitigation discovered during the construction, all work must Measures of this CHMP cease. OEH, the local police and the appropriate LALC should be notified. Further assessment would be undertaken to determine if the remains are Aboriginal or non-Aboriginal.
AH 4 Continued consultation with the RAPs for the WRSF RAPs consulted during Project should be undertaken. RAPs should be development of this CHMP informed of any major changes in project design or and should be consulted scope, further investigations or finds. with regards to any major changes in project scope.
Mitigation Measures The mitigation measures for the WRSF are provided in the following Table:
Factor Management or Control Measure Responsibility Timing
Aboriginal Heritage
If removal of mature trees in relation to Avoidance Site Pre- installation of the 33 kV cable is required, Construction construction these would be checked for scars prior to Manager removal, and if present the scar should then be examined by a qualified heritage practitioner and RAPs to assess if the scar is cultural. If any culturally scarred trees are identified by the above process, avoidance by redesign of the cable alignment should be undertaken.
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Chance Finds In the event that site workers identify Site Construction Procedure potential Aboriginal heritage sites, the Construction chance finds procedure shall be Manager implemented as follows: • all activity in the immediate area should cease • a temporary fence should be established at a suitable distance around the object • Project Site Construction Manager and OEH Planning, North East Branch, Regional Operations Division (02 6659 8272) should be immediately contacted • local Aboriginal stakeholder groups should be notified • an appropriately qualified heritage professional should be engaged to record the location and attributes of the site and determine the significance of the find in conjunction with Aboriginal stakeholders, and to determine appropriate management.
Examples of Aboriginal Objects are provided in Attachment 1 to this CHMP for educational purposes.
Discovery of In the event of the discovery of human Site Construction Human Remains skeletal material (or suspected human Construction skeletal material) during project activities Manager the following steps will be followed : • all activities and/or works in the immediate area must cease and the area cordoned off • any sand/soils removed from the near vicinity of the find must be identified and set aside for assessment by the investigating authorities • contact the NSW Police to determine if the material is of Aboriginal origin • if determined to be Aboriginal, the proponent must notify OEH Planning, North East Branch, Regional Operations Division (02 6659 8272)of the find • contact a suitably qualified archaeologist and representatives of the
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local Aboriginal Community Stakeholders to determine an action plan for the management of the skeletal remains, formulate management recommendations and to ascertain when work can recommence.
Inductions The project site inductions would include Site Construction information about Aboriginal Heritage Construction and associated mitigation measures. Manager
Further Continued consultation with the RAPs for Compliance Pre- consultation the WRSF Project should be undertaken. Manager construction of RAPs should be informed of any major amended scope changes in project design or scope, further / construction if investigations or finds. items found
Dissemination of A copy of the final CHMP will be Compliance Pre- Information provided to each of the relevant Manager construction Aboriginal organisations. A copy of this CHMP will also be provided to OEH and registered Aboriginal stakeholders
Historic heritage (non-Aboriginal)
Chance Finds In the event of an item of heritage Site Construction Procedure significance being uncovered within the Construction WRSF Development Envelope after works Manager commence, the NSW Heritage Division should be contacted prior to further work being undertaken at the particular location.
References DECCW (2010) Due Diligence Code of Practice for the Protection of Aboriginal Objects in New South Wales OEH (2010a) Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Consultation Requirements for Proponents 2010. OEH (2010b) Code of Practice for Archaeological Investigation of Aboriginal Objects in New South Wales. OEH (2011) Guide to Investigating, Assessing and Reporting on Aboriginal Cultural Heritage in NSW Tindale, N.B. (1974) Aboriginal Tribes of Australia. ANU Press, Canberra.
Attachment 1 - Example Aboriginal Objects (Source: DECCW, 2010)
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Photo of scar tree (RPS WR04) located within WRWF project boundary (source: WRWF Cultural Heritage Management Plan)
Attachment 2 – Response from Anaiwan LALC
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Appendix E Noise Management Plan
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Sonus Pty Ltd 17 Ruthven Avenue ADELAIDE SA 5000 Phone: +61 8 8231 2100 Facsimile: (08) 8231 2122 www.sonus.com.au ABN: 67 882 843 130 Contact: Chris Turnbull M: 0417 845 720 E: [email protected]
White Rock Solar Farm
Construction Noise Management Plan
Prepared For
Goldwind
S4834C4 April 2017
White Rock Solar Farm Construction Noise Management Plan S4834C4 April 2017
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ...... 3 AMBIENT AND BACKGROUND NOISE MONITORING ...... 4 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY CRITERIA ...... 5 Construction Noise ...... 5 Traffic Noise on Public Roads ...... 6 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES ...... 7 Construction Noise ...... 7 Traffic Noise on Public Roads ...... 9 PROJECT MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 10 Scheduling ...... 10 Location of Fixed Noise Sources ...... 10 Enclose Generators and Compressors ...... 11 Alternative Processes ...... 11 Site Management ...... 11 Equipment and Vehicle Management ...... 11 Community Consultation ...... 12 Monitoring ...... 12 Complaints Resolution ...... 12 Project Mitigation Measures in Context ...... 12 MONITORING ...... 13 Plant and Equipment ...... 13 Compliance ...... 13 COMPLAINTS RESOLUTION ...... 14 CONCLUSION ...... 15 REFERENCES ...... 16 Project Mitigation Measures ...... 17 Community Consultation ...... 19 Noise Monitoring ...... 19
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INTRODUCTION
The construction of a solar farm comprises activities such as road construction, civil works, excavation and foundation construction and electrical infrastructure works requiring processes such as heavy vehicle movements, loaders, excavators, piling, generators and cranes.
An environmental noise assessment was prepared for the White Rock Solar Farm and was summarised in Sonus report “S4834C1”. The report addresses the Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs), dated 3 February 2016, and references this Draft Noise Management Plan in addressing construction noise.
The proposed hours of construction activity are as follows; Monday to Friday: 7am to 6pm Saturday: 8am to 1pm Sunday and Public Holidays: No work Note: Non-noisy works may be performed outside of these hours (e.g. electrical wiring works)
The most significant impacts were predicted to occur if construction activities were to take place at night. Therefore, with only day time activity occurring at significant separation distances, the construction of the White Rock solar farm is not expected to generate any significant impacts, subject to implementation of the feasible and reasonable noise mitigation measures recommended in this Construction Noise Management Plan (NMP).
In developing the NMP, the relevant provisions of the following guidelines and legislation have been considered: Interim Construction Noise Guideline (the ICNG) – for construction noise; “NSW Road Noise Policy” published by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water – for noise from road traffic associated with the construction of the project.
The NMP will provide a framework document to develop and implement specific action plans for each individual activity or stage of works once the construction contractor is known and the extent of processes confirmed.
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AMBIENT AND BACKGROUND NOISE MONITORING
Noise monitoring had previously been conducted at dwelling “R1” in close proximity to the solar farm site as a part of a White Rock Wind Farm assessment.
The noise monitoring was conducted over a period of three weeks (24 September to 13 October 2010) and measured the ambient and background noise levels in the environment.
The measured noise data have been used to derive the RBLs and the ambient equivalent (LAeq) noise levels, as summarised in Table 2. The RBLs and the ambient equivalent noise levels are the relevant noise level descriptors for comparison with the ICNG criteria.
Table 2: The RBL and ambient equivalent noise level at R1. Monitoring Rating Background Level, Ambient Equivalent Noise Location RBL (dB(A)) Level, LAeq (dB(A)) Day 33 59 R1 Evening 31 55 Night 25 52
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CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY CRITERIA
Construction Noise
The appropriate assessment methodology for noise from on-site construction activities is provided by the Interim Construction Noise Guideline (the ICNG).
The ICNG provides an emphasis on implementing feasible and reasonable noise reduction measures and does not set mandatory standards or objective criteria. This approach is consistent with other interstate approaches to construction noise.
The ICNG does establish a quantitative approach, whereby a goal level is based on the existing rating background level (RBL) at noise-sensitive locations. The RBL is determined based on the monitored background noise level (LA90) in the environment. The goal level is used by the ICNG as a “trigger” for the construction site to implement all feasible and reasonable work practices and measures.
For construction activity occurring within the proposed hours, Table 2 in Section 4.1 of the ICNG provides a goal noise level for construction activity of 10 dB(A) above the RBL. Construction activity generating a noise level greater than 10 dB(A) above the RBL results in the need to implement all reasonable and feasible measures to reduce the noise. The table also recommends an upper limit, or maximum criterion, of 75 dB(A), which should only be exceeded “in exceptional circumstances and for short periods of time (for example up to two days)”, acknowledging that construction activity is intermittent and for some processes, the application of noise reduction measures may not be reasonable or feasible.
Based on the RBL results, the goal noise level has been determined and is provided in Table 3.
Table 3: Construction noise goal noise level.
Monitoring Rating Background Ambient Equivalent Goal Noise Level, LAeq Location Level, RBL (dB(A)) Noise Level, LAeq (dB(A)) (dB(A))
R1 33 59 43
Due to the rural and quiet nature of the monitoring location, it is noted that the goal noise level is extremely conservative (low) for construction noise activity in that it is significantly less than the average noise level already in the environment and significantly less than the NSW Road Noise Policy requirements for (constant) activity with a similar character.
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Where the goal noise level is achieved, no specific noise mitigation measures are required. Where the goal noise level is exceeded, then the noise mitigation measures in this NMP should be implemented.
Traffic Noise on Public Roads
The appropriate assessment methodology for traffic noise on public roads associated with the construction activity is provided by the “NSW Road Noise Policy”, 2011.
The recommended criterion to be achieved by the additional construction traffic movements is an equivalent (LAeq,1hour) noise level of no greater than 55 dB(A) during the daytime (7am to 10pm). This noise level is to be achieved outside, at a distance of 1.5m from the facade of a dwelling.
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CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES
Construction Noise
The equipment and activities that are present at the site will vary throughout the project, depending on the construction phase. Construction activity will be variable in nature. However, the predicted noise levels at the closest noise receivers for each phase of the project (provided in Table 5) are based on all of the listed equipment operating for one third of the assessment period in weather conditions which are most conducive for noise propagation. In practice, for any other operational conditions, weather conditions, or receiver location, the noise levels will be lower than the noise level shown in Table 5, and in many cases, significantly so. Also provided is a prediction of all possible equipment operating simultaneously, for a full assessment period.
The distance to achieve the 43 dB(A) “trigger” is in the order of 2500m and therefore the solar farm should implement the measures in this plan to reduce the noise. The receiver locations in relation to the solar farm are shown in the aerial photo provided in Appendix B.
The predicted noise levels in Table 5 indicate the “goal noise level” (refer to Table 3) of the ICNG will be exceeded on occasion during the construction process; however, the “upper limit” requirement of 75 dB(A) of the ICNG is predicted to not be exceeded at all locations.
In the circumstance where the predicted noise levels exceed the “goal noise levels” but achieve the “upper limit”, the ICNG requires noise and vibration management actions to be developed to minimise the construction noise.
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Table 5: Predicted noise level from construction activity. Construction Main Plant and Predicted Noise Level at Dwelling Phase Equipment R1* R4 R5 R49 R57
Separation distance from dwelling 550m 2000m 1800m 770m 2000m to construction activity: Construction goal noise level 43 dB(A) 43 dB(A) 43 dB(A) 43 dB(A) 43 dB(A) Upper noise limit 75 dB(A) 75 dB(A) 75 dB(A) 75 dB(A) 75 dB(A) Excavator Bulldozer Site Preparation, Chainsaw 53 dB(A) at 42 dB(A) at 43 dB(A) at 50 dB(A) at 42 dB(A) at Clearing & Tree Mulcher 550m 2000m 1800m 770m 2000m Demolition Light Vehicle Dump Truck
Hand Tools Excavator Light Vehicles Delivery Truck Establishment Site Bulldozer Compound, Plate Compactor 54 dB(A) at 43 dB(A) at 44 dB(A) at 51 dB(A) at 43 dB(A) at Access Roads & Grader 550m 2000m 1800m 770m 2000m Delivery of Roller Materials Asphalt Paver Bobcat Bored Piling Rig Mobile Crane
Piling Rig Mobile Crane Installation of Bobcat 57 dB(A) at 45 dB(A) at 46 dB(A) at 54 dB(A) at 45 dB(A) at Foundations Excavator 550m 2000m 1800m 770m 2000m Concrete Vibrating Needle Concrete Truck
Installation of Bobcat / Trencher 44 dB(A) at 33 dB(A) at 34 dB(A) at 41 dB(A) at 33 dB(A) at Underground Tractor & Cable Trailer 550m 2000m 1800m 770m 2000m Cabling Loader Truck Compressor Assembly of Panel Hand Tools 51 dB(A) at 39 dB(A) at 40 dB(A) at 48 dB(A) at 39 dB(A) at Frames, Mounts & Generator 550m 2000m 1800m 770m 2000m Transformer Units Ratchet Gun Mobile Crane Light Vehicles Site Rehabilitation Excavator / Removal of Bulldozer 51 dB(A) at 40 dB(A) at 40 dB(A) at 48 dB(A) at 40 dB(A) at Temporary Loader 550m 2000m 1800m 770m 2000m Construction Dump Truck Facilities Truck
All phases, plant and equipment combined 63 dB(A) 52 dB(A) 53 dB(A) 60 dB(A) 52 dB(A)
* Closest dwelling to construction site.
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Traffic Noise on Public Roads
In addition to the on-site works, the construction activities will also incorporate passenger vehicle and heavy vehicle movements to and from the site along the Gwydir Highway south-west of the Matheson township, for the duration of the construction period. These vehicles will include semi- trailers, low loaders, haulage trucks, mobile cranes, water tankers, four-wheel-drive vehicles and passenger vehicles. Direct access to the site from a state highway mitigates the potential impacts compared to access via local roads.
For comparison with the traffic noise criterion, predictions of the noise from traffic at various distances from the roadside have been made based on a maximum number of heavy and passenger vehicle movements in an hour. It has been assumed that during the peak traffic period, a total of 40 light vehicles and 7 heavy vehicles may enter the site in a single hour.
Based on the above vehicle movements in a one hour period, the predicted noise levels at various setback distances from the roadside are provided in Table 6. The predictions indicate that the traffic noise criterion of 55 dB(A) will be achieved at a distance of less than 9m from the roadside.
Table 6: Predicted noise level from traffic. Setback Distance Predicted Noise Level from Roadside 9m 55 dB(A) 10m 54 dB(A) 15m 52 dB(A) 20m 51 dB(A) 25m 49 dB(A) 30m 48 dB(A) 40m 47 dB(A) 50m 46 dB(A)
Based on the above, and the proposed access route, there will be no dwellings within 9m of traffic and therefore the traffic noise criterion will be achieved without inclusion of any acoustic measures.
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PROJECT MITIGATION MEASURES
Pro-active noise control strategies to minimise noise during construction may include engineering measures such as the construction of temporary acoustic barriers, the use of proprietary enclosures around machines, the use of silencers, the substitution of alternative construction processes and the fitting of broadband reversing signals. It may also include administrative measures such as inspections, scheduling and providing training to establish a noise minimisation culture for the works.
The following mitigation measures provide a suite developed in accordance with the ICNG from which the construction contractor can develop action plans for each individual activity. Example actions which may be required during construction have been included as Appendix A of this report. These types of actions, once approved, will be the “tool on the ground” for the ongoing operation of the site.
Scheduling
Construction works, including heavy vehicle movements into and out of the site, will be restricted to between 7am and 6pm Monday to Friday, and between 8am and 1pm on Saturdays. Works carried out outside of the hours will only entail: works that do not cause noise emissions to be audible at any nearby residences not located on the site; the delivery of materials as requested by Police or other authorities for safety reasons; and emergency work to avoid the loss of lives, property, and/or to prevent environmental harm.
If any other works are required outside of the specified hours, they will only be carried out with the prior consent of the Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) Secretary.
Location of Fixed Noise Sources
Locate fixed noise sources such as generators and compressors at the maximum practicable distance to the nearest dwellings.
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Enclose Generators and Compressors
Provide proprietary acoustic enclosures for site compressors and generators.
Alternative Processes
Investigate and implement alternative processes where feasible and practicable, such as hydraulic or chemical splitters as an alternative to impact rock breaking, or the use of broadband reversing alarms in lieu of the high pitched devices. A broadband reversing alarm emits a unique sound which addresses the annoyance from the high pitched devices. The fitting of a broadband alarm should be subject to an appropriate risk assessment, with the construction team being responsible for ensuring the alarms are installed and operated in accordance with all relevant occupational, health and safety legislative requirements.
Site Management
Select and locate centralised site activities and material stores as far from noise- sensitive receiver as possible; Care should be taken not to drop materials such as rock, to cause peak noise events, including materials from a height into a truck. Site personnel should be directed as part of an off-site training regime to place material rather than drop it; Plant known to emit noise strongly in one direction, such as the exhaust outlet of an attenuated generator set, shall be orientated so that the noise is directed away from noise sensitive areas if practicable; Machines that are used intermittently shall be shut down in the intervening periods between works or throttled down to a minimum; Implement worksite induction training, educating workers on the requirements of the NMP.
Equipment and Vehicle Management
Ensure equipment has Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) mufflers installed;
Ensure equipment is well maintained and fitted with adequately maintained silencers which meet the OEM design specifications. This inspection should be part of the monitoring regime;
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Ensure silencers and enclosures are intact, rotating parts are balanced, loose bolts are tightened, frictional noise is reduced through lubrication and cutting noise reduced by keeping equipment sharp. These items should be part of the monitoring regime;
Use only necessary power to complete the task;
Inspect, as part of the monitoring regime, plant and equipment to determine if it is noisier than other similar machines, and replace or rectify as required.
Community Consultation
Establish and implement a Community Engagement Plan in accordance with Section 4.2 of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), and notify the nearby residents of the construction timeframes and the expected activities (prior to works commencing).
Monitoring
Establish and implement a monitoring process in accordance with the requirements in this NMP. Refer to the “Monitoring” section for the detailed requirements of a monitoring process.
Complaints Resolution
Establish and implement a complaints resolution process in accordance with the requirements in this NMP and in line with the broader complaints resolution procedure for the project (refer to Section 3.6 of the EMS with regards to the different communications pathways available for the community; the WRSF Stakeholder Engagement Plan at Appendix L of the EMS; and the Enquiries and Complaints Handling Procedure at Appendix K of the EMS).
Project Mitigation Measures in Context
It is unlikely that the above measures will result in meeting the construction goal noise level at all times due to the stringency of the level, and the variable nature of construction activity. However, they will serve to reduce the impacts and are considered to represent the extent of feasible and reasonable noise reduction measures applied to construction activity. These measures will result in noise levels that are lower than the measured existing ambient noise levels in the environment.
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MONITORING
The aim of a monitoring procedure is to ensure works are being carried out in accordance with the NMP. On site monitoring should include the following elements;
Plant and Equipment
Regular on site inspections by the “EPC Contractor HSE Representative” to identify: o Equipment has quality OEM mufflers installed; o Equipment is well maintained and fitted with adequately maintained silencers which meet the OEM design specifications; o Silencers and enclosures are intact and closed, rotating parts are balanced, loose bolts are tightened, frictional noise is reduced through lubrication and cutting noise reduced by keeping equipment sharp; o Site personnel are using only necessary power to complete the task; o Plant and equipment that is noisier than other similar machines; o Care is being taken to place material in trucks rather than being dropped; o Plant emitting noise strongly in one direction is orientated so that the noise is directed away from noise sensitive areas if practicable; o Machines that are used intermittently are being shut down in the intervening periods between works or throttled down to a minimum.
Compliance
Given that construction noise levels are expected to be in the order of the existing ambient noise environment and therefore difficult to identify and measure at an unattended monitoring site, long term monitoring of construction activity will not be effective for this site. Noise measurements should be carried out in accordance with the Complaints Resolution Process.
If the measured noise level at the closest residence (or at a location representative of the closest residence or complainant location) exceeds the goal noise level provided by the ICGN (refer Table 3) but is less than the maximum limit of 75 dB(A), then all feasible and reasonable mitigation measures will be implemented to reduce the noise at the dwellings. These mitigation measures are provided in the “Project Mitigation Measures” section.
In the event that the measured noise level exceeds the maximum limit of 75 dB(A), then all feasible and reasonable mitigation measures will be implemented and the testing repeated to confirm compliance with the 75 dB(A) criterion. Based on the predicted noise levels summarised previously, this outcome is very unlikely.
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COMPLAINTS RESOLUTION
The aim of the complaints resolution process is to identify additional feasible and reasonable measures that may further reduce impacts following a complaint, and to provide feedback to the community on the above process within a reasonable timeframe. The complaints resolution process should implement the following noise elements; Establishment of a complaints mechanism for the community via either telephone or email (refer to Section 3.6 of the EMS with regards to the different communications pathways available for the community and an outline of the complaints management mechanism); Notification of the relevant contact details through the community consultation process; Provision of a project Environmental Representative dealing with any complaints who is appropriately trained in the NMP requirements and in community consultation, and has the ability to action the complaint; Implement the complaints handling procedure, including: o Assessing whether the issue can be resolved easily and take immediate action if possible; o If not, ensure that the appropriate consultation has been undertaken for the activity; o Ensure the on-site inspections of the NMP have been carried out regularly for the activity; o Assess the construction site and activities to determine whether there is any reason to believe the noise exposure of receivers is higher than anticipated; o Undertake monitoring of noise levels where this cannot be confirmed, with the aim of establishing if the exposure of receivers is higher than anticipated by the NMP; o Take remedial action if any of the above cannot be confirmed; o Advise complainant of action taken; o Maintain a record of the above to enable review by an independent authority such as EPA.
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CONCLUSION
The construction of the White Rock solar farm will occur at significant separation distances to the dwellings in the vicinity, resulting in appreciable attenuation of the noise generated by the activity. In addition, the activity will be restricted to standard daytime construction hours, addressing the most significant impacts from general construction which occur from activity at night.
Therefore, with day time activity occurring at significant separation distances, the construction of the White Rock solar farm is not expected to generate any significant impacts, subject to implementation of the feasible and reasonable noise mitigation measures recommended in this Noise Management Plan (NMP).
The NMP incorporates the following core elements:
Identification and details of the construction activities including timing, duration and predicted noise levels;
Identification of the best management practices and the reasonable and feasible measures to minimise the construction noise activities;
Recommendations for specific community consultation and notification methods;
Recommendations for specific compliance monitoring plans;
Recommendations for specific complaints handling procedures including corrective actions to be taken and feedback methods; and
Comparison of the NMP against the relevant provisions of the NSW Department of Environment & Climate Change Interim Construction Noise Guideline.
The NMP provides a framework document that the construction contractor can use to develop and implement action plans for each individual construction activity.
It is noted that upon completion of the construction works, the noise from the WRSF will be significantly lower during operation. Operational noise from the WRSF had been modelled and assessed as part of the EIS, which determined that the noise levels at the residences will be lower than the operational noise criteria established in accordance with the Industrial Noise Policy (INP).
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REFERENCES
The following documents have been referred to in the development of this Noise Management Plan (NMP):
DECCW. 2011. NSW Road Noise Policy. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Sydney, New South Wales.
DECCW. 2009. Interim Construction Noise Guideline. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Sydney, New South Wales.
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APPENDIX A: Example Actions
Project Mitigation Measures
The following mitigation measures are pro-active noise control strategies that represent the extent of feasible and reasonable noise reduction measures. Given the variable nature of construction activity it is expected that the goal noise levels will be exceeded at times, however the maximum noise levels are predicted to be achieved under worst case conditions for the proposed activity. Mitigation Action Responsibility Timing/Comments Construction Noise Restrict Construction works, including heavy vehicle movements to Project Manager During Construction the hours detail in the NMP. Works carried out outside of the hours should only entail: works that do not cause noise emissions to be audible at any nearby residences not located on the site; the delivery of materials as requested by Police or other authorities for safety reasons; and emergency work to avoid the loss of lives, property, and/or to prevent environmental harm. Locate fixed noise sources such as drilling rigs, generators, Project Manager During Construction compressors and crushing and screening plant at the maximum practicable distance to the nearest dwellings Provide proprietary acoustic enclosures for site compressors and Project Manager During Construction generators. Investigate and implement hydraulic or chemical splitters as an Project Manager Prior to Construction alternative to impact rock breaking where feasible. Implement use of broadband reversing alarms in lieu of the high Project Manager Prior to Construction pitched devices where feasible. Plant Operators Care should be taken not to drop materials such as rock, to cause Project Manager During Construction peak noise events, including materials from a height into a truck. Plant Operators Site personnel should be directed as part of an off-site training regime to place material rather than drop it. Plant known to emit noise strongly in one direction, such as the Project Manager During Construction exhaust outlet of an attenuated generator set, should be orientated so that the noise is directed away from noise sensitive areas if practicable. Machines that are used intermittently should be shut down in the Project Manager During Construction intervening periods between works or throttled down to a minimum. Plant Operators Implement worksite induction training, educating staff on the Project Manager During Construction requirements of the NMP. Ensure equipment has Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Project Manager During Construction mufflers installed
White Rock Solar Farm Construction Noise Management Plan S4834C4 April 2017
APPENDIX A: Example Actions
Ensure equipment is well maintained and fitted with adequately Project Manager Weekly maintained silencers which meet the OEM design specifications. This inspection should be part of the monitoring regime Ensure silencers and enclosures are intact, rotating parts are Project Manager Weekly balanced, loose bolts are tightened, frictional noise is reduced through lubrication and cutting noise reduced by keeping equipment sharp. These items should be part of the monitoring regime Select the appropriate machinery and equipment for each task and Project Manager During Construction only use the necessary power to complete the task. Inspect, as part of a monitoring regime, plant and equipment to Project Manager Weekly determine if it is noisier than other similar machines, and replace or rectify as required Traffic Noise on Public Roads Confirm the traffic noise achieves the relevant criterion of 55 dB(A) Project Manager Traffic volumes to be confirmed once traffic volumes are known. so noise predictions can be made Limit the traffic volume or implement feasible and reasonable noise Project Manager During Construction mitigation measures in these areas where the traffic noise is predicted to exceed the relevant criterion. Provide information regarding the route to all drivers prior to Project Manager During Construction accessing the site Schedule construction traffic deliveries such that it is as evenly Project Manager During Construction dispersed as practicable.
White Rock Solar Farm Construction Noise Management Plan S4834C4 April 2017
APPENDIX A: Example Actions
Community Consultation
The following community consultation measures are pro-active strategies to minimise adverse impacts during construction. Mitigation Action Responsibility Timing/Comments General Construction Establish an “Environmental Officer” that is appropriately trained in Project Manager Prior to Construction the NVMSP requirements and community consultation that can be a point of contact for the residents. Provide regular community information newsletters that details the Project Manager As required during Construction construction plan and duration of the construction phases that is distributed. Establish a site notice board in a community location providing Project Manager Prior to Construction copies of the newsletters, updated construction program details, and contact details of relevant project team members and an ability to register for email updates of the newsletter. Regular updates on the construction activities to Local Council and Project Manager As required during Construction the local Police to assist in complaint management. Establish a mechanism for the community to submit questions to the Project Manager Prior to Construction construction team, and for the construction team to respond. “Environmental Representative” Establish a complaints resolution mechanism in accordance with the Project Manager Prior to Construction NVMSP for the community to submit issues to the construction “Environmental Representative” team, and for the construction team to take action. Construction in close proximity to dwellings Contact the local community potentially affected by the proposed Project Manager As required during Construction works and inform them of the proposed work, the location of the “Environmental Officer” work, the day(s) and date(s) of the work and the hours involved. Contact to inform the local community shall be made a reasonable Project Manager As required during Construction time before the proposed commencement of the work; “Environmental Officer” The letter should provide the contact details of the project manager Project Manager As required during Construction and / or site “Environmental Representative”. “Environmental Officer”
Noise Monitoring
Noise monitoring may be conducted to ensure the works are being carried out in accordance with the NMP. Noise monitoring may be required include if noise complaints are received.
White Rock Solar Farm Construction Noise Management Plan S4834C4 April 2017
Page 20
APPENDIX B: Residence Locations
White Rock Solar Farm – SSD Effective Date: 22/01/2018 Doc No. 7487 Environmental Version 6.0 Management Strategy Review Date: 22/01/2018
Appendix F Landscaping Plan
White Rock Solar Farm – SSD 7487 Environmental Management Strategy UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED. Page 101 of 107
White Rock Solar Farm Landscaping plan
MARCH 2017
www.nghenvironmental.com.au e [email protected] Sydney Region Canberra ‐ NSW SE & ACT Wagga Wagga Riverina and Western NSW 18/21 mary st unit 17/27 yallourn st (po box 62) suite 1, 39 fitzmaurice st (po box 5464) surry hills nsw 2010 (t 02 8202 8333) fyshwick act 2609 (t 02 6280 5053 wagga wagga nsw 2650 (t 02 6971 9696)
Newcastle – Hunter and North Coast Bega ‐ ACT and South East NSW Bathurst ‐ Central West and Orana 153 tudor st suite 1, 216 carp st (po box 470) 35 morrisset st (po box 434) hamilton nsw 2303 (m 0475 946 632) bega nsw 2550 (t 02 6492 8333) bathurst nsw 2795 (m 0448 820 748)
Document Verification Project Title: White Rock Solar Farm Landscaping plan
Project Number: 17‐024 Project File Name: White Rock LP_final V1.docx Revision Date Prepared by (name) Reviewed by (name) Approved by (name) Draft V1 02/03/17 Freya Gordon Brooke Marshall Brooke Marshall Matt Hingee Brooke Marshall Draft V2 07/03/17 Brooke Marshall Andrew Homewood Brooke Marshall Final V1 20/03/17 Brooke Marshall Brooke Marshall
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www.nghenvironmental.com.au e [email protected] Sydney Region Canberra ‐ NSW SE & ACT Wagga Wagga Riverina and Western NSW 18/21 mary st unit 17/27 yallourn st (po box 62) suite 1, 39 fitzmaurice st (po box 5464) surry hills nsw 2010 (t 02 8202 8333) fyshwick act 2609 (t 02 6280 5053 wagga wagga nsw 2650 (t 02 6971 9696)
Newcastle – Hunter and North Coast Bega ‐ ACT and South East NSW Bathurst ‐ Central West and Orana 153 tudor st suite 1, 216 carp st (po box 470) 35 morrisset st (po box 434) hamilton nsw 2303 (m 0475 946 632) bega nsw 2550 (t 02 6492 8333) bathurst nsw 2795 (m 0448 820 748)
White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 THE PROJECT ...... 1 1.2 LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT AND SCOPE OF THIS PLAN ...... 1 1.3 RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER ASSESSMENTS AND PLANS ...... 2 1.3.1 Source documents ...... 2 1.3.2 Associated environmental management plans ...... 2 1.4 OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE OF THIS PLAN ...... 2 1.5 CONSULTATION REQUIREMENTS ...... 4 2 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ...... 5 2.1 SITE CONTEXT ...... 5 2.2 BIODIVERSITY VALUES AND THREATS ...... 5 2.3 CHARACTER OF THE PROJECT ...... 5 2.4 KEY VISUAL IMPACTS ...... 8 3 MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK ...... 10 3.1 RESPONSIBILITIES ...... 10 3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING, REPORTING AND COMPLIANCE ...... 11 4 IMPLEMENTATION ...... 12 4.1 LOCATING AREAS FOR MANAGEMENT ...... 12 4.2 REQUIRED INFRASTRUCTURE / INTERFACE WITH THE WRSF ...... 13 4.3 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES ...... 13 4.3.1 ‘Enhance’ Area 1 ...... 13 4.3.2 ‘Establish’ Area 2 ...... 14 4.4 MAINTENANCE AND MONITORING – AREAS 1 AND 2 ...... 14 4.5 SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT ACTIONS AND PERFORMANCE INDICATORS ...... 16 4.6 RESTRICTIONS WITHIN THE MANAGEMENT AREAS ...... 21 5 RESOURCES FOR MANAGEMENT ...... 22 5.1 WEED MANAGEMENT ...... 22 5.2 SUPPLEMENTARY PLANTING ...... 22 5.2.1 Species ...... 22 5.2.2 Sourcing of plant material ...... 23 5.2.3 Density and planting methods ...... 23 5.2.4 Establishment and monitoring requirements ...... 24
17‐024 Final V1 i White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan
5.3 MONITORING REFERENCES: BENCHMARK VALUES ...... 25 5.4 GENERAL MEASURES FOR PROTECTION OF BOX GUM GRASSY WOODLAND ...... 26 6 REFERENCES ...... 30 APPENDIX A CONDITION OF CONSENT MAP ...... A‐I APPENDIX B AREAS FOR MANAGEMENT ...... B‐I
17‐024 Final V1 ii White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan
TABLES
Table 1‐1 Conditions of Consent relevant to this document ...... 1
Table 2‐1: Predicted visibility of the solar farm ...... 8
Table 3‐1: Personnel with specific LP responsibilities ...... 10
Table 3‐2: EMS Monitoring and reporting, relevant to this LP (Source EMS, as of 20 March 2017)...... 11
Table 4‐1 Management actions relevant to Areas 1 and 2 ...... 16
Table 5‐1 Planting schedule ...... 22
Table 5‐2 Benchmark data for Blakely's Red Gum ‐ Yellow Box grassy woodland of the New England Tableland Bioregion (BR272) ...... 25
Table 5‐3 Recovery Plan actions for Box Gum Grassy Woodland ...... 26
17‐024 Final V1 iii White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
BA Biodiversity Assessment
BoP Balance of Plant Contractor / Engineering, Procurement and Construction Contractor CoA Conditions of Approval
WRSF White Rock Solar Farm Pty Ltd
CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan
DoPE (NSW) Department of Planning and Environment
EISA Environmental Impact Statement
EPC Engineering, Procurement and Construction Contractor / Balance of Plant Contractor ER Environmental Representative
EWMS Environmental Work Method Statement
LP Landscaping plan
MW Megawatt
NSW New South Wales
OEMP Operation Environmental Management Plan
PV Photovoltaic
RMS Roads and Maritime Services
SCECO Site Construction and Environmental Compliance Officers
17‐024 Final V1 iv White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan 1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 THE PROJECT
The White Rock Solar Farm (WRSF) project is located in the New England Tablelands approximately 20 km west of Glen Innes, NSW. The WRSF would have a nominal capacity of up to approximately 20 megawatts (MW) Alternating Current (AC) and would be built to enhance renewable energy generation at the White Rock Wind Farm (WRWF). The objective of the WRSF Project is to maximise the amount of renewable electricity through a cost effective hybrid wind/solar project that shares infrastructure and reduces the overall impact of the two operations. The project development envelope comprises approximately 50 hectares of a 149.7 hectare property.
1.2 LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT AND SCOPE OF THIS PLAN
The White Rock Solar Farm project (the project) was approved, subject to conditions, by the NSW Department of Planning in June 2016, under section 89E (State Significant Development) of the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act). The Conditions of Consent (June 2016) for the project outline specific requirements in relation to the preparation of a Landscaping Plan (Condition 9) prior to the commencement of construction. The Landscaping Plan is to provide details of Vegetation Enhancement of the site (Condition 8) (Table 1‐1).
Table 1‐1 Conditions of Consent relevant to this document
Conditions of Consent 8 Vegetation Enhancement The Applicant shall: (a) enhance the area of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland located to the north of the solar panels (as outlined in red in the figure in Appendix 11); (b) establish and maintain an additional area of at least 1 hectare of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland EEC within the project site; (c) maintain the vegetation in these two areas; and (d) keep this vegetation free of weeds. 9 Landscaping Plan Prior to the commencement of construction, the Applicant shall: (a) prepare a detailed Landscaping Plan for the site in consultation with OEH2; and (b) submit a copy of the plan to the Department. Note: the plan must outline the measures that would be implemented to ensure compliance with Condition 8.
This document has been prepared to address both of these conditions of consent.
1 Provided in this document as Appendix A.
2 NSW Office of Environment and Heritage.
17‐024 Final V1 1 White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan
It is noted that Condition 28 of the consent requires rehabilitation of the operational site in conjunction with the decommissioning of the solar farm. After decommissioning, the Proponent will have no control over the management areas developed to address Conditions 8 and 9 (detailed in this Landscaping Plan). This Landscaping Plan does not cover rehabilitation actions to meet Condition 28. The scope of this plan is to cover life of the project. After decommissioning, fencing, grazing and other management actions / restrictions set out within this LP can no longer be enforced by the proponent in the management areas. Notwithstanding this, there is potential for the solar farm to be renewed through the replacement of panels at the end of the current 25 year project life. Should this occur, it is anticipated that the sustenance of the management areas would continue as part of that project.
1.3 RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER ASSESSMENTS AND PLANS
1.3.1 Source documents
The following documents form source documents for the development of this plan.
NGH Environmental (2016). White Rock Solar Farm EIS v1.3. Prepared for Goldwind, March 2016. Green Bean Design (2016) White Rock Solar Farm Visual Impact Assessment (VIA). Prepared for White Rock Solar Farm Pty Ltd. DSE (2006) Native Vegetation Revegetation planting standards – Guidelines for establishing native vegetation for net gain accounting. Victorian Government, Department of Sustainability and Environment, East Melbourne. NSW Department of Planning & Environment (2016). State Significant Development Assessment White Rock Solar Farm (SSD 7487).
1.3.2 Associated environmental management plans
Associated environmental management plans of relevance to this plan include:
Environmental An overarching EMS applies to this project. Management Strategy Establishment of the landscaping areas would commence as part of construction. (EMS) Maintenance of the landscaping areas would be carried out during operation. This Landscaping plan (LP) is a sub‐plan of the EMS.
Other plans that overlap this LP include: Construction Flora and Fauna Management Plan (CFFMP)(Appendix B of the EMS) The CFFMP covers all pest management issues at the WRSF site; this includes the management areas detailed in this LP. Pest animal controls are not duplicated in this plan.
1.4 OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE OF THIS PLAN
The overall objective of this LP is to provide for the rehabilitation of specific areas within the WRSF site to a self‐sustaining, recognisable plant community type BR272 (VIS Classification) that is within the set benchmark values for this community. Specifically, to meet the requirements of Conditions 8 and 9 of the project approval (see Table 1‐1), this LP sets out to:
17‐024 Final V1 2 White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan
1. Enhance the area of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland located to the north of the solar panels; 2. Establish and maintain an additional area of at least 1 hectare of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland EEC within the project site; 3. Maintain the vegetation in these two areas; 4. Keep this vegetation free of weeds; 5. Prepare a detailed Landscaping Plan for the site in consultation with OEH; and 6. Submit a copy of the plan to the Department. In addition, mitigation measures from the VIA prepared by Green Bean Design (GBD) that are relevant have been included. These include: 7. Consideration in selection and location for replacement tree planting which may provide partial screening or backdrop setting for constructed elements. 8. Long term maintenance (and replacement as necessary) of tree planting within the solar farm site to maintain visual filtering and screening of external views where appropriate. Other measures, recommended in the VIA that relate to vegetation management but that have not been included in this LP include:
The rehabilitation of disturbed areas after construction is not included in this LP. This is being addressed by the EMS. The protection of mature trees within the solar farm site, similarly, would be addressed by the EMS. It is noted that a contractor will be responsible for implementing this plan. This plan aims to make clear the actions required to meet the scope identified above. Additionally, resources are provided to assist implementation. This LP is presented in 5 parts:
Section 2 Existing environment Provides context to the plan, including vegetation present. and key impacts
Section 3 Management Details responsibilities, subcontractor management, consultation framework requirements and environmental monitoring, reporting and compliance.
Section 4 Vegetation Addresses Objectives 1, 2, 3, 4, 7 and 8. Includes the location of establishment and management areas and monitoring and maintenance requirements. enhancement
Section 5 Resources for Details on weed control, plating methods, general protection management measures and grazing management.
17‐024 Final V1 3 White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan
1.5 CONSULTATION REQUIREMENTS
Consultation and specialist input relevant to the LP are summarised below:
Botanist input Botanist Matt Hingee, who completed the vegetation assessment for the project, provided input into species selection, planting and maintenance methods; 1 March 2017.
Landscape architect Andrew Homewood (GBD Director),who completed the White Rock Solar Farm VIA input has provided a peer review of the draft LP, 2 March 2017.
Landowner input The vegetation management areas are within the lease area. The landowner has been consulted regarding this plan, 20 March 2017.
OEH A draft of the LP (v2) was provided to OEH for input prior to finalisation. Input from OEH into the plan was provided on 17 March 2017. This revised plan (Final V1) includes additional information to address the issues raised by OEH: 1. Clarification of roles of Environmental Management Strategy (EMS) and LP, Section 3. 2. Additional biodiversity context of the site, Section 2.2. 3. Expertise required of contractors and ecologists involved in the LP, Section 3.1. 4. Information on related WRSF infrastructure, such as access tracks, Section 4.2. 5. Mechanisms to protect the management areas, Section 4.5. 6. Restricted activities, Section 4.6. 7. Monitoring benchmarks; it is noted that reference sites are not included and a justification is provided Section 5.3. 8. Performance indicators and timing, Section 4.5. 9. Additional detail on direct actions, Section 4.5. 10. Monitoring and reporting, Section 5.3. 11. Relationship to decommissioning plan, Section 1.2. 12. Detail regarding strategic grazing and other long term land use, Section 1.2.
17‐024 Final V1 4 White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan 2 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
2.1 SITE CONTEXT
The WRSF is located in the south‐eastern part of the Border Rivers‐Gwydir catchment, an area of 5,000 ha that is part of the Murray Darling Basin Area. The WRSF development envelope slopes to the northeast towards Wellingrove Creek that is within the Severn River sub‐catchment. The Severn River is approximately 30 kilometres north. There are no major rivers or creeks within the development envelope. Surface elevations within the WRSF development envelope range between 970 m and 1030 m above sea level (ASL). The terrain comprises a ridge line along the western boundary of the development envelope which slopes into a relatively flat area within the valley floor.
2.2 BIODIVERSITY VALUES AND THREATS
Of the 32 flora species detected in the study area none are threatened. About 80% of the entire site is cleared and dominated by exotic species. While the land surrounding the development envelope has been substantially cleared and modified for agricultural production, it retains areas of remnant woodland, identified as Blakely’s Red Gum – Yellow Box grassy woodland of the New England Tableland Bioregion (listed as an Endangered Ecological Community (EEC) under the TSC Act and a Critically Endangered Ecological Community (CEEC) under the EPBC Act). The dominant tree species in the community is Yellow Box (E. melliodora) and the understory, although primarily exotic, contains Tussock grass (Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana), Bracken Fern (Pteridium esculentum) and Wallaby grass (Rytidosperma tenuius). Weeds within the development envelope include shrubs such as Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) and understorey species such as St Barnaby’s Thistle (Centaurea solstitialis), Phalaris (Phalaris aquatic), Prairie grass (Bromus catharticus), Perennial Rye grass (Lolium perene), Chickweed (Stellaria media), stinging nettle (Urtica urens), Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) and Paspalum (Paspalum diltatum). The development envelope and surrounds, being primarily used for agriculture, provide very little in terms of fauna habitat. These areas provide suitable foraging habitat for introduced species such as cats, foxes and rabbits. No feral animals were recorded during the biodiversity field surveys. This LP aims to improve the biodiversity values and address risks relevant to the LP management areas. Specifically:
Control weeds, with a focus on noxious species Supplementary planting of species that occur within the Blakely’s Red Gum – Yellow Box grassy woodland of the New England Tableland Bioregion EEC Maintenance of this vegetation, for the life of the project. The CFFMP (Appendix B of the project EMS) covers all pest management issues at the WRSF site including the management areas detailed in this LP. Pest animal controls are not duplicated in this plan.
2.3 CHARACTER OF THE PROJECT
The proposed WRSF involves a fixed panel PV solar farm, of up to approximately 20 MW (AC) capacity, located to the northeast of turbine 1 of the WRWF. The solar farm layout comprises eight groups of solar
17‐024 Final V1 5 White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan panels on relatively level to gently sloping ground. These are all located in the WRSF development envelope. Power Conversion Blocks (PCBs) comprising inverters, step‐up transformers and switchgear would be located centrally to groups of panels. The components at the Solar Farm site will have a low height of up to 3 m. The 33kV switchgear at the WRWF Substation would be internal to an existing building at the substation located to the south of White Rock Mountain and would not contribute any additional visual impact. The indicative layout is shown in Figure 2‐1. The solar farm project would be connected to the electricity grid via the approved WRWF substation. Additional 33kV cabling to connect the solar arrays to the WRWF substation will be underground and follow the WRWF 33kV cable routes. The VIA determined that the character of the landscape surrounding the solar farm project is generally robust and that the landscape would not be overly sensitive to the solar farm development. The VIA also determined that the degree to which the landscape would accommodate the solar farm project would not significantly alter the existing landscape character.
17‐024 Final V1 6 White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan
Figure 2‐1 Indicative WRSF infrastructure layout
17‐024 Final V1 7 White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan
2.4 KEY VISUAL IMPACTS
The VIA determined that the solar farm project:
will have a no visual impact on the principal rural townships within the surrounding landscape; will result in no significant impact on views from local roads and highways; will result in no significant cumulative visual impacts, and will result in no significant visual impact from scenic areas, lookouts or public reserves. The VIA identified a total of 12 residential dwellings located within an approximate 4 kilometre view shed surrounding the solar farm site. The VIA determined that:
11 of the residential dwellings would experience a negligible visual impact; and 1 of the residential dwellings (I40) would experience a low visual impact. The determination of negligible visual impact for the majority of residential dwellings surrounding the solar farm site reflect the high degree of localised screening provided by the low undulating landform extending across this section of the Great Dividing Range, as well as the occurrence of tree planting alongside local road corridors and within surrounding agricultural land. The VIA also determined that the solar farm would have a low (and mostly negligible) visual impact for motorists with views being largely indirect and for a very short duration of time. Views from surrounding local roads and the Gwydir Highway would also be screened and/or partially filtered by trees alongside road corridors. Visual impacts are summarised in Table 2‐1.
Table 2‐1: Predicted visibility of the solar farm3
Location / receiver Extent of visibility
Gwydir Highway Very low ‐ Indirect views will be partially screened and filtered by tree plantings. (At around 655 metres).
Ilparran Road Very low – indirect views largely screened by tree cover. (At around 1605 metres).
Sinclair Lookout Low – elevated views from a distance of around 5868 metres.
The VIA determined that the vast majority of landowners surrounding the proposed solar farm will not be visually affected by the project as it will be screened by combinations of landform and/or tree cover extending beyond the site. Residential dwellings will also be less affected by the proposed solar farm as the distance between the project site and dwelling begins to exceed a 2 kilometre distance. The Proponent
3 An additional 13 receiver locations had an extent of visibility reported as Nil (Green Bean 2016) and have not been included in this table.
17‐024 Final V1 8 White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan has consulted with the neighbouring property owner (I40), and confirmed that the neighbouring landowner has no visual concerns about the solar farm project. The solar farm project SEAR’s set out a requirement to prepare a draft landscaping plan developed in consultation with affected landowners. Based on the assessment outcomes and given the lack of affected landowners, the VIA did not consider it necessary to include draft landscape plans for any properties surrounding the proposed site. No specific perimeter screen planting was recommended.
17‐024 Final V1 9 White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan 3 MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK
3.1 RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsibilities specific to the LP are detailed below in Table 3‐1. The proponent is responsible for implanting the plan for the life of the project.
Table 3‐1: Personnel with specific LP responsibilities
Name Organisation Role Responsibility / experience Authority Medard Goldwind Management and Responsible for providing the required Authority to limit or Boutry – strategic control. resources to facilitate the LP. stop works. Senior Environment al Advisor TBA Specialist Implementation: Ensure the goals of LP are achieved. Reports to the Contractor Establishment of Ensure requirements of this plan are Proponent. native vegetation, communicated and implemented. weed control. Minimum experience must include: Horticultural or similar qualifications Experienced bush regenerator Experienced weed identification
TBA Ecologist Weed mapping, To monitor and provide recommendations to Reports to the monitoring and ensure the objectives of the LP are met. Proponent. reporting. Minimum qualifications and experience must include: Botanical or similar science degree Experienced in the completion of BBAM4 vegetation plots Experience providing advice relating to improving vegetation condition
4 BioBanking Assessment Methodology, OEH NSW endorsed tool.
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3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING, REPORTING AND COMPLIANCE
The EMS and all associated sub‐plans (including this LP, which will be included as Appendix F of the EMS) will be implemented on site during construction and operation. The implementation will be monitored, reviewed and audited throughout the construction phase as described in Section 4.1 of the EMS:
Table 3‐2: EMS Monitoring and reporting, relevant to this LP (Source EMS, as of 20 March 2017).
Inspection Output Timing
Weekly and post significant Environmental site inspection, Weekly environmental checklist rainfall (EPC contractor) including performance and condition of controls, fencing, etc Monthly (WRSFPL) during construction
Weed management and Implementation of EMS and Fortnightly inspections during enhancement of EEC FFMP. construction. Consider need for corrective action as relevant. Environmental outcomes met.
Biodiversity monitoring of EEC Monitoring report Annually (or as per the enhancement and establishment maintenance regime in later areas years) throughout project life
Monitor environmental Operations inspection report Monthly or as required (e.g. after performance to check if any significant weather events) maintenance required (e.g. fencing around EEC areas, vegetation rehabilitation, and effectiveness of erosion controls.
17‐024 Final V1 11 White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan 4 IMPLEMENTATION
The overarching aim of this plan is to provide for the rehabilitation of Area 1 and Area 2 (Appendix B) to a self‐sustaining, recognisable plant community type BR272 (VIS Classification) that is within the set benchmark values for this community. This section sets out the location in which actions are required and the objectives for management actions, to meet the relevant consent conditions of this plan. It also considers the maintenance and monitoring requirements to meet these objectives. Resources to assist implementation are provided separately in Section 5.
4.1 LOCATING AREAS FOR MANAGEMENT
Two areas have been identified in which to manage vegetation for the life of the project. Area 1: 3.08 ha. In this area, tree cover is existing but very sparse. This area qualifies as Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland community. Actions would be undertaken to enhance this area. Area 2: At least 1 ha (mapped area is 1.96 ha in Appendix B). In this area, no tree cover is existing. Native understorey has also been removed and replaced with exotic species. Species appropriate to the Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland community would be established. Areas 1 and 2 are mapped in Appendix B. Area 1 was identified by OEH in the consent conditions for the project. Area 2 was selected for several reasons. These include:
To increase the functional size of the existing patch of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland (Area 1). This would make the vegetation more contiguous and improve the functionality of the community. While the VIA determined that the WRSF will have no significant impact on views from local roads and highway, planting in this location will increase vegetation between the highway and solar infrastructure. Consolidating the area to be managed for enhancement and establishment will reduce the impact on the other activities onsite for the solar project and for the surrounding agricultural usage. Fencing stock out of one area will be more cost effective than having a separate establishment area that also requires fencing. The corridor that has been retained in the southern part of the development envelope to allow for the movement of stock in an east‐west direction would not be affected. Consolidating the area to be managed for enhancement and establishment will make weed management more effective. Trees planted in Area 2 will not cause shading on the solar panels or affect solar yield. They will not cause branches or leaves to fall on panels, similarly affecting yield. Maintenance (ease of access) – collocating the management areas will not adversely impact the land owner’s access to external road networks or internal access tracks or farming activities. The landowner has been consulted regarding the establishment of Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland community in this area. Considering the sparse and fragmented nature of the woodland and forest remnants flanking the WRSF development envelope, it is considered unlikely that the WRSF Project
17‐024 Final V1 12 White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan
would pose a significant bush fire risk. However, collating the management areas within close proximity of site access tracks (to the south) will allow easy access in case of fire.
4.2 REQUIRED INFRASTRUCTURE / INTERFACE WITH THE WRSF
The management areas (Area 1 and 2) will be fenced off at the commencement of construction and will be a ‘no go’ area for construction and operational staff, unless engaged in management activities detailed in this LP or pest control. An access track will be established along the solar farm side of the EEC management area to enable access and also provide a fire break between onsite infrastructure and surrounding vegetation. A gate will be provided in the fenced LP management areas for access into the management areas. The exact location of the access, gate and fencing cannot be provided at this time. This will be developed by the EPC Contractor as part of the detailed design phase.
4.3 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES
4.3.1 ‘Enhance’ Area 1
The objective of ‘enhancement’ is to improve the existing condition of the vegetation. It is recommended to do this with reference to the parameters included in the NSW OEH BioBanking assessment methodology (BBAM; OEH 2014). These parameters summarise the diversity, maturity and presence of threats such as weeds. In this way, monitoring against these parameters can provide guidance for management actions that will, in time, improve the condition of the vegetation. BBAM parameters include:
Species richness Percentage cover of native overstorey, midstorey, ground cover (separating grasses, shrubs, other) Percentage cover of exotic species Number of trees with hollows Overstorey regeneration Total length of fallen logs For each parameter, the Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland has a specific range of values considered ‘bench mark’. When the parameters are within the benchmark range, they are considered to represent an intact and functioning example of the community. The benchmark values for this community are provided in the Resource section of this report, along with the current parameter scores, collected in January 2016 (refer to Section 5.3). Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland at the project site is in low condition with a prevalence of exotic mid‐storey and groundcover species (NGH Environmental 2016; supported by plot data in Tables 5‐ 2 and 5‐3). Therefore, in order to enhance Area 1, the following actions would be undertaken: 1. Implement weed control to: a. Eradicate noxious weeds, agricultural weeds and other invasive exotics. b. Reduce the extent of other exotics. 2. Supplementary planting to increase species richness towards benchmark value: a. Increase percentage cover of overstorey, midstorey and ground cover natives towards benchmark values.
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3. Relocate coarse woody debris (such as that found within the development envelope) towards benchmark value. 4. Restrict the removal of rock or woody debris that occurs within Area 1.
4.3.2 ‘Establish’ Area 2
The objective of ‘establishment’ is to restore vegetation that has been removed through either clearing or weed invasion. This area has been both cleared and cropped, hence the seed bank is likely to provide little native regeneration. Weeds will be a problem particularly in the ground cover. As above, it is recommended to establish vegetation with reference to the BBAM benchmark parameters. In order to establish the Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland community in Area 2, the same objectives outlined for Area 1 would be undertaken in Area 2. However, it is noted that Area 2 will require more intensive weed control and more intensive planting to achieve benchmark values over time. Specific differences to Area 1 are noted in bold: 1. Implement weed control: a. Till, spray out (or implement equivalent effective method) exotic areas in Area 2, to eradicate the existing non‐native ground cover. b. Maintain weed‐free areas around supplementary plantings. 2. Supplementary planting to increase species richness towards benchmark value. a. Broadcast native ground cover seed mix b. Increase percentage cover of overstorey and midstorey natives towards benchmark values. c. Supplement with understory species plantings if broad casting is not effective. 3. Relocate coarse woody debris (such as that found within the development envelope) towards benchmark value. 4. Restrict the removal of rock or woody debris that occurs within Area 1. Light mulching (or equivalent) is recommended to assist in any areas where bare soil is exposed.
4.4 MAINTENANCE AND MONITORING – AREAS 1 AND 2
After the initial actions (establishment phase) at Areas 1 and 2 described above, maintenance and monitoring actions required for Areas 1 and 2 include:
Protect the remnant with signage and fencing5:
o Fencing should fully exclude stock and also illegal access for dumping of rubbish or collection of firewood.
o Stock exclusion will be required unless planting guides are sufficient to protect plantings. o Maintenance of fencing and signage. Weed control: o Regular weed monitoring and control would be undertaken in especially in spring and after periods of rainfall as weed outbreaks are likely after sufficient rain events.
5 Perimeter fencing may not be erected until after tilling for machinery access purposes.
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Appropriate weed control measures such as spot spraying emerging seedlings are required at this time to reduce and limit the severity of weed outbreaks. Supplementary plantings: o Replacement of dead supplementary plants (an 80% success rate for tube stock should be maintained). o Longer term monitoring is recommended using the BBAM for Area 1 and 2 separately to guide supplementary planting. Given the time required to record overstorey, a botanist’s interpretation of the ability of the planting to achieve benchmark values in the long term will be required. Four or 5 year monitoring may be appropriate, after the initial actions. This standardised monitoring method will allow a clear demonstration of whether the plan’s objectives are being met; improvement of condition of the community for Area 1 and establishment / restoration of the community in Area 2. o Reference sites are not suggested for comparison purposes; the BBAM benchmark data provide reference point of the parameters of interest. Seasonal weed monitoring. Maintenance actions and monitoring would be undertaken for the life of the project. The methods and results would be reported annually (or as per the maintenance regime in later years). Ongoing actions would be informed by the success of previous actions to ensure the most effective management of the areas. Note: highly managed grazing can be allowed if managed carefully. Nutrient input and reduction of exotic biomass can have biodiversity benefits, if managed well. Specifically:
Grazing is prohibited at flowering and seed set for native grasses. Stock grazing would not occur in any areas with less than 85% ground cover. Regenerating trees and plantings (both trees and groundcover) must be protected from stock. Tree and shrub guards in areas to be grazed must be sheep and cattle proof, such as: o 3‐4 metal stakes o Sheep yard mesh
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4.5 SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT ACTIONS AND PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Table 4‐1 Management actions relevant to Areas 1 and 2
Management Objective Management action details Location Performance indicator Timing of management action issue Weed control Eradicate noxious weeds, Conduct a survey to determine the location and extent of Area 1 Decline in weed extent, Fortnightly inspections during agricultural weeds and WoNS and noxious weeds within Area 1. Baseline weed verified by mapping. construction. other invasive exotics. mapping is to be performed by personnel trained and No noxious weeds within Area Annual weed monitoring and experienced in weed identification. Reduce the extent of 1. control would be undertaken other exotics. Map the locations and density of weed infestations (mark up in spring. Improvement in BBAM a site map separately identifying listed noxious weed species. parameters (exotic cover). More frequent control may be
The following are known to occur nearby: Blackberry, St. required after periods of Barnaby’s Thistle, Spear thistle, Prarie grass, Perennial Rye rainfall in the early grass, stinging nettle (Urtica urens) and Paspalum (Paspalum establishment phase (first 2 diltatum). years). Targeted weed control would be carried out in accordance with Noxious Weeds Act 1993, the New England Weeds
Authority and Glen Innes Severn Shire Council. Herbicides would be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Weed control activities will be undertaken by personnel suitably experienced in weed identification and treatment. Maintain weed‐free areas around supplementary plantings. Weed control activities would be informed by weed mapping and annual monitoring. Till, spray out (or implement equivalent effective method) to Area 2 No noxious weeds within Area Till and spray out at eradicate the existing non‐native ground cover in this zone. 2. establishment only, prior to Maintain weed‐free areas around supplementary plantings. Improvement in BBAM native species establishment. Weed control activities would be informed by weed mapping parameters (exotic cover). and annual monitoring.
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Management Objective Management action details Location Performance indicator Timing of management action issue Report findings, to inform Reporting of annual weed control works to be prepared Area 1 & 2 Weeds and areas targeted Monitoring report prepared ongoing management annually. Reporting is to include: updated to reflect on‐ground annually (or as per the Areas worked results. maintenance regime in later Timing of works years) throughout project life Weeds targeted Techniques and equipment used Issues encountered Recommendations for ongoing weed control. Updated mapping (can be hardcopy mark ups) of key infestations treated
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Management Objective Management action details Location Performance indicator Timing of management action issue Supplementary Develop to a self‐The native species composition and density is to be Area 1 & 2 80% success rate for tube stock Planting to commence during planting sustaining, recognisable established and maintained within benchmark for the should be maintained. construction of the solar farm. plant community type vegetation type (refer Table 5‐2 below, specifically, 25 native Supplementary planting to BR272 (VIS Classification) plant species; 6‐25% overstorey cover; 0‐5% midstorey cover, Improvement in BBAM occur annually in response to that is within the set groundcover grasses; 30‐40%). parameters (native species monitoring. benchmark values for this Planting of trees and shrubs would be undertaken to increase richness, native cover Overall benchmark objective community. the tree and shrub density in a mosaic pattern, targeting percentages6) to be met in the long‐term, but derived grassland areas where the likelihood of natural evidence that actions are regeneration seems low. progressing reasonably to this In areas targeted for supplementary planting, 50 trees per goal will be required. hectare is a guide. Planting would comprise tree and shrub species present within the surrounding Box‐Gum Woodland. Suggested species are included in Section 5.2.1 of this LP. Plants used for planting should be sourced from locally collected provenances where possible. Tubestock would be planted with water crystals (or equivalent). Refer resources provided in Section 5.2.
6 BBAM will not record improvement in plant foliage cover well until plants are established. Tree densities should be as per the grassy woodland guidance documentation until this time; 50 trees per ha.
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Management Objective Management action details Location Performance indicator Timing of management action issue
Given the high proportion of exotic understorey and lack of Area 2 75% ground cover from Broadcasting in Spring after trees, spraying out and tilling has been proposed with follow broadcasting spraying and tilling. up broadcast native ground cover seed mix 80% success rate for tube stock Supplementary planting to should be maintained. occur annually in response to Supplement with understory tubestock species plantings if monitoring. broad casting is not effective. Improvement in BBAM Overall benchmark objective Overstorey and mid storey treatment should be as per Areas parameters (native species to be met in the long‐term, but 1 and 2 above. richness, native cover evidence that actions are percentages7) progressing reasonably to this goal will be required. Retain resources Retain habitat features The clearing of native vegetation, whether remnant or Area 1 & 2 Improvement in BBAM Life of project. that currently regrowth, is not permitted. parameters (fallen timber, occur The landholder is to retain regrowth and/or natural native species richness) regeneration of native plant species. No planting or spreading of non‐native vegetation. No collection of timber, rocks or removal of native vegetation. No use of the site for recreational activities that involve the use of motorised vehicles, horse riding and exercising of domestic pets. No dumping of garbage. No fire wood collection. Relocate coarse Enhance habitat features Relocate coarse woody debris (such as that found within the Area 1 & 2 Improvement in BBAM Establishment phase only. woody debris construction envelope) towards benchmark value. parameters (fallen timber) Material should be scattered, not heaped and not located at the base of trees. Material should not exceed the BBAM.
7 BBAM will not record improvement in plant foliage cover well until plants are established. Tree densities should be as per the grassy woodland guidance documentation until this time; 50 trees per ha.
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Management Objective Management action details Location Performance indicator Timing of management action issue Fencing and Restrict all impacts from Perimeter fencing installed around the management areas. Area 1 & 2 Monthly monitoring to ensure Life of project. signage adjacent agricultural Ensure that all external gates have adequate locks. (note the all fences, gates and locks are activities Install signage declaring areas are ‘no go’ area for areas are not intact. construction and operational staff, unless engaged in required to management activities detailed in this LP. be fenced separately Fencing should fully exclude stock and also illegal access for from each dumping of rubbish or collection of firewood. other Regular inspections of fencing and maintenance would be
undertaken. Highly managed Strategic and controlled Stock grazing would not occur in any areas with less than 85% Area 1 & 2 Daily monitoring of livestock in Grazing is prohibited at grazing grazing to enhance ground cover. Area 1 & 2 to ensure no flowering and seed set for biodiversity and to Regenerating trees and plantings (both trees and damage to tree guards, fences native grasses. manage fire loading on groundcover) must be protected from stock. Tree guards in or overgrazing pasture during the property areas to be grazed must be sheep and cattle proof, such as: targeted grazing period 3‐4 metal stakes Sheep yard mesh (These can be reused once plants are tall enough to withstand grazing).
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4.6 RESTRICTIONS WITHIN THE MANAGEMENT AREAS
The fenced LP management areas will be a ‘no go’ area for construction and operational staff, unless specifically engaged in management activities detailed in this LP. Specific restrictions that apply to the management areas include:
Establishment of apiary sites Harvesting of fallen timber or fire wood Removal of rock Dumping of rubbish Establishment of any vegetation, not strictly in accordance with the LP.
Avoid physical disturbance (e.g. cultivation, ripping, excavation; excepting tilling that may be used during establishment of Area 2) Avoid chemical changes (e.g. use of fertilisers or soil ameliorants). Avoid soil compaction from vehicles/machinery or stock camps Do not divert existing run‐on from remnant areas (e.g. diversion drains).
Prevent the introduction of exotic pasture species (i.e. pasture improvement). Prevent the introduction of non‐indigenous native species. Ensure machinery hygiene protocols are implemented to prevent the spread of weeds. Prevent the stockpiling of topsoil or overburden within remnant areas. Do not carry out burning unless under a fire management plan developed for this site to promote biodiversity.
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5 RESOURCES FOR MANAGEMENT
5.1 WEED MANAGEMENT
Areas proposed for enhancement include noxious weeds such as Blackberry and other environmental weeds such as St Barnaby’s Thistle, Spear thistle, Prarie grass, Perennial Rye grass, stinging nettle (Urtica urens) and Paspalum (Paspalum diltatum). To ensure that these noxious and environmental weed species do not spread into enhancement areas, regular weed monitoring and control would be undertaken in especially in spring and after periods of rainfall as weed outbreaks are likely after sufficient rain events. Appropriate weed control measures such as spot spraying emerging seedlings are required at this time to reduce and limit the severity of weed outbreaks. Weed control would be managed in accordance with Noxious Weeds Act 1993, the New England Weeds Authority and Glen Innes Severn Shire Council. Herbicides would be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
5.2 SUPPLEMENTARY PLANTING
5.2.1 Species
The species for use as vegetation enhancement plantings would be representative of the EEC Blakely’s Red Gum Yellow Box Grassy Woodland, in order to enhance the existing native vegetation.
Table 5‐1 Planting schedule
Scientific Name Common Name Mature height (m) TREES Alectryon oleifolius Western Rosewood up to 20 Eucalyptu bridgesiana Apple Box up to 20 E. conica Fuzzy Box up to 20 E. melliodora Yellow Box up to 25 E. blakelyi Blakely’s Red Gum up to 25 E. albens White Box up to 25 E. nortonii Bundy up to 20 E. microcarpa Grey Box Up to 20 E. goniocalyx Long‐leaved Box Up to 15 SHRUBS Acacia buxifolia Box‐leaf Wattle up to 14 A.Implexa Hickory Wattle Up to 14 A. paradoxa Hedge Wattle up to 6 Bursaria spinosa Blackthorn Up to 6
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Scientific Name Common Name Mature height (m) Dianella revoluta Blue Flax‐Lilly up to 5 Olearia elliptica Sticky Daisy Bush up to 10 Notelaea microcarpa Native Olive Up to 10 Groundcovers Aristida ramose Purple Wiregrass Asperula conferta Common Woodruff Austrodanthonia bipartita Wallaby Grass Austrodanthonia racemose Wallaby Grass Bothriochla macra Red grass Dichanthium sericeum Bluegrass Elymus scaber Wheat Grass Geranium solanderi Native Geranium Glycine clandestina Twining Glycine Lomandra filiformis Wattle Mat‐rush Poa sieberiana Snow Grass Themeda australis Kangaroo Grass Wahlenbergia communis Blue Bell
5.2.2 Sourcing of plant material
Only hardened tube stock will be planted out. The tubestock to be used in vegetation enhancement of the site would be grown from plant material that has been sourced from the local area (preferably within 10 km of the site). Tubestock would be grown or supplied by a reputable local nursery or supplier and would be of a sufficient size and quantity to establish successfully at the site. When sourcing material, priority will be given to plants grown in at least 7.5 cm pots with sufficient root and shoot growth. Plants in this size pot are recommended as they are physiologically dynamic, small enough to plant, but large enough to cope with transplant shock. Tubestock would be of a good size with sufficient, healthy, root and shoot growth. Ideally a shoot:root ratio between 1 and 3 is ideal. Plants that are small, diseased or pot bound would not be accepted as they are unlikely to thrive. For ground cover species, it is considered appropriate and most economic to source tubestock grown in Virotubes ® (50x50x90mm) or similar. Tubestock should be hardened off at the nursery for two weeks prior to planting out.
5.2.3 Density and planting methods
Trees within each row and the rows themselves can be spaced 3 to 5 metres apart. The recovery plan recommends planting trees and shrubs at natural grassy woodland densities (DECCW 2011). Planting rates have been determined based on revegetation
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planting standards (DSE 2006). DSE (2006) recommends 50 overstorey plants/ha for dry woodlands. It is recommended that groundcover species be included in plantings to ensure soil stability and to promote a fully structured area of endemic vegetation representative of the EEC.
5.2.4 Establishment and monitoring requirements
Tube stock will be planted in autumn with:
Water crystals, or regularly watered until established Tree guards, to provide some protection from wind and wildlife Stock proof tree guards, if managed grazing is to occur
Figure 5‐1 Planting timing Source: http://www.glenrac.org.au/admin/files/resources/1442357470_ground_prep_guide_tree_planting_2015 .pdf
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5.3 MONITORING REFERENCES: BENCHMARK VALUES
Benchmark data (OEH Oct 2008) Blakely's Red Gum ‐ Yellow Box grassy woodland of the New England Tableland Bioregion and current site data8 for Areas 1 and 2 for low condition for Blakely's Red Gum ‐ Yellow Box grassy woodland of the New England Tableland Bioregion are provided below. These would be referenced when monitoring the site annually and recommending further management actions. Local reference sites are not considered to be required, given these clear parameters for measuring improvement, using an OEH endorsed methodology. Note, a zoom in map for marking weed distribution and control measures is included in Appendix B.
Table 5‐2 Benchmark data for Blakely's Red Gum ‐ Yellow Box grassy woodland of the New England Tableland Bioregion (BR272)
Veg Type Native plant Native over‐ Native mid‐ Native ground Native ground Native ground cover Number of Total Hollows & ID species richness storey cover storey cover cover (grasses) cover (shrubs) (other) trees with length of logs ‐ hollows fallen logs Source
Richn Source Lower Upper Lower Upper Lower Upper Lower Upper Lower Upper ess
BR 272 25 E 6 25 0 5 30 40 3 10 3 5 1 15 E
Table 5‐3 Current site data for low condition for Blakely's Red Gum ‐ Yellow Box grassy woodland of the New England Tableland Bioregion (representative of Areas 1 and 2)
Plot Native Native Native Native Native Native Exotic Number Overstorey Total Easting Northing Zone name plant over‐ mid‐ ground ground ground plant of trees regenerati length species storey storey cover cover cover cover with on of fallen richness cover cover (grasses) (shrubs) (other) hollows logs
N1 4 0 0 3 0 0 44 0 0 0 359422 6706819 56
N4 3 0 0 4 0 0 46 0 0 0 359547 6706312 56
N5 4 0 0 7 0 0 48 0 0 0 359402 6705718 56
8 Collected during the biodiversity assessment for the WRSF project in January, 2016.
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5.4 GENERAL MEASURES FOR PROTECTION OF BOX GUM GRASSY WOODLAND
General measures that are relevant to the protection of Box Gum Grassy Woodland have been sourced from the Recovery Plan for this community (DECCW 2011). They are relevant to both Areas 1 and 2 and are restated below. These are considered the current best practice site management practices to ensure the continued existence of Box Gum Grassy Woodland. They are provided here as a resource for management.
Table 5‐3 Recovery Plan actions for Box Gum Grassy Woodland
Issue Practice
Maintain or improve soil conditions Avoid physical disturbance (e.g. cultivation, ripping, excavation). Avoid chemical changes (e.g. use of fertilisers or soil ameliorants). Avoid soil compaction from vehicles/machinery or stock camps.
Maintain or improve drainage Do not direct run‐off (from roads, urban developments, contour conditions / existing hydrological banks) into remnant areas. regime Do not divert existing run‐on from remnant areas (e.g. diversion drains).
Control exotic plant introductions Prevent the introduction of exotic pasture species (i.e. pasture improvement). Prevent the introduction of non‐indigenous native species. Ensure machinery hygiene protocols are implemented to prevent the spread of weeds. Prevent the stockpiling of topsoil or overburden within remnant areas. Implement a weed control program to control weed invasion, wildlings from adjacent tree plantings (e.g. Radiata Pine and European Olives) and garden escapees. Implement a buffer zone to help control weed introductions and protect remnant from herbicide drift.
Avoid inappropriate native tree Do not plant indigenous native trees/shrubs that are not planting representative of Blakely's Red Gum ‐ Yellow Box grassy woodland of the New England Tableland Bioregion. Use high quality seed. Where practical this should be of local provenance, but high quality non‐local seed should be used in preference to low quality local seed. Plant trees and shrubs at natural grassy woodland densities.
Maintain or improve connectivity Ensure existing links are maintained between Box‐Gum Grassy Woodland remnants and/or between Box‐Gum Grassy Woodland and other native vegetation types, for example grassland, woodland, forest, riparian and/or wetlands. Expand sites to increase viability where possible.
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Issue Practice
Avoid excessive shading Prevent changes which will result in prolonged shading (e.g. dense tree plantings).
Maintain or improve structural Prevent the removal of regenerating trees and shrubs within diversity remnant patches. Prevent firewood collection or the “tidying up” of fallen dead timber and leaf litter. Prevent rock removal. Prevent the removal of standing dead hollow trees. Maintain complete structure of woodland without allowing a full canopy to develop, shading out understorey species.
Ensure adequate buffers are retained Protect areas of Box‐Gum Grassy Woodland from adjacent land use (e.g. urban and agricultural development) that may potentially impact on its integrity.
Minimise chemical use Weed control should use spot‐spraying, basal spraying, stem injection or cut and paint application methods. Avoid overspray and minimise impacts on non‐target species. Monitor treated areas to ensure weeds do not establish on any resultant bare patches.
Implement strategic grazing Ensure remnant areas are rested at appropriate times, for example when perennial native ground cover species are flowering and seeding. Limit grazing during drought periods. Grazing levels should not be increased above historical levels. Where a site has never before been grazed by livestock, an alternative (e.g. fire, no intervention) should be used for management. Maintain a minimum of 80% ground cover at all times and biomass at an appropriate level to the region and season. Monitor outcomes to determine effectiveness and adapt management efforts.
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Issue Practice
Avoid inappropriate mowing / If mowing/slashing is used to reduce biomass within remnants slashing and increase species diversity, it should be carried out sporadically, and in a mosaic pattern to allow for the retention of refuges for tall tussock grasses, regenerating overstorey and groundlayer dependent fauna as well as habitat features (such as fallen logs, litter). The height of the slasher must be sufficient to maintain enough cover to offer native fauna species protection. Mow/slash at appropriate times (e.g. late summer or autumn after native ground layer plants have seeded and become dormant). On‐road sides, only mow areas essential for visibility and safety, in most cases this will be to the table drain. Mow from clean areas out. Ensure machinery hygiene protocols are implemented to avoid the spread of weeds.
Control feral animals Protect native fauna and flora populations by controlling feral predators; foxes, dogs, cats, pigs within and/or adjacent to remnant areas. Do not push fallen or felled timber into stacks or windrows within remnant areas as these form harbours for foxes, cats and rabbits. If ripping is used to control rabbits within remnants ensure machinery hygiene procedures are adhered to, and ripped areas are monitored to prevent weed infestations. Protect native flora by controlling feral grazers (e.g. rabbits, goats and deer) within remnants. Erecting appropriate fencing (e.g. fencing of stock dams, individual guards for targeted threatened plants) may help.
Exclude commercial apiary sites Do not permit commercial apiarists to place bee hives within the area. Landholders should not allow the placement of bees on their property within 3 km of the remnant.
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Issue Practice
Implement appropriate burning The minimum fire interval suggested for Box‐Gum Grassy regimes Woodlands is five years, with a maximum interval of 40 years9. Fire regimes implemented should have regard to the floristic composition and condition of the remnant. For example, remnants dominated by Snow Grass and Kangaroo Grass were found to regenerate well with autumn burning cycles approximately every 5‐8 years, where this had historically occurred (Prober et al. 2008). Such high frequency burning cycles may negatively impact other native species, however, and further research is required before burning regimes can be explicitly determined. Any burning should be applied to remnants in mosaics (i.e. burning small areas at staggered intervals) to allow survival of soil and ground fauna (including invertebrates, amphibians and reptiles) and promote diversity in the states of the ecological community. Sites where burning is practiced should retain unburnt areas, to provide refuges for species of fauna and flora that may be intolerant of fire. Timing of burns must be considered in relation to the flowering and seeding of native and exotic species. Where possible burns should be carried out after natives have seeded but before weeds flower and seed. Be aware that some weed species (e.g. Coolatai Grass) increase with burning.
9 Adaptive Management Guidelines for Box Gum Grassy Woodlands, produced by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water and the Grassy-Box Woodland Conservation Management Network. Available at http://gbwcmn.net.au/files/AdaptiveManagement09.pdf .
The NSW Rural Fire Service also provides fire thresholds for Vegetation Categories – see individual Bush Fire Risk Management Plans at http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/dsp_content.cfm?cat_id=1040
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6 REFERENCES
DSE (2006) Native Vegetation Revegetation planting standards – Guidelines for establishing native vegetation for net gain accounting. Victorian Government, Department of Sustainability and Environment, East Melbourne. Green Bean Design (2016) White Rock Solar Farm Visual Impact Assessment. Prepared for White Rock Solar Farm Pty Ltd. NGH Environmental (2016). White Rock Solar Farm EIS v1.3. Prepared for Goldwind, March 2016. NSW Department of Planning & Environment (2016). State Significant Development Assessment White Rock Solar Farm (SSD 7487). Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW) NSW (2011). National Recovery Plan for White Box ‐ Yellow Box ‐ Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW, Sydney. Prober S.M. and Thiele K.R. (2005). Restoring Australia’s temperate grasslands and grassy woodlands: integrating function and diversity. Ecological Management and Restoration 6: 16‐27.
17‐024 Final V1 30 White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan APPENDIX A CONDITION OF CONSENT MAP
This map is provided as Appendix 1 of the consent conditions (June 2016, approved under section 89E (State Significant Development) of the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act)).
17‐024 A‐I White Rock Solar Farm Landscape Plan APPENDIX B AREAS FOR MANAGEMENT
Cultivated Exotic Vegetation Yellow Box- Blakley's Red Woodland Low Condition H40 !( Hollow bearing trees I40 ") Biometric Plots !? Closest residences hway ir Hig 2m contours Gwyd Wind Farm access track Existing 132kV overhead powerline shared with Solar Farm Exclusion areas Land reserved by the landowner for cropping Stock watering infrastructure Proposed solar farm (SSD 16_7487) !( Development envelope N1 ") Development footprint Construction office and laydown area Solar array " Power Conversion Blocks 33kV cable route Wind Farm O&M building Solar Farm access tracks shared with Solar Farm Fence N4 !( ") Wind farm infrastructure (PA MP10_160) !( Wind turbine Wind Farm access track Wind Farm 132kV overhead Wind Farm 33kV cabling powerline shared with !( !( Solar Farm Proposed 132kV overhead powerline !( !( !( Wind Farm facilities !( Vegetation management zones
!( !( Area 1
N5!( Area 2 !( !( Wind Farm cable route ")!( !( 020040010 0 Metres shared with Solar Farm 1 !( Ref: 6589 !( Author: J B °
2 Notes: - Infrastructure data and aerial courtesy of Goldwind, received 2016 www.nghenvironmental.com.au
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2m contours Proposed solar farm (SSD 16_7487) Development envelope Solar array Solar Farm access tracks Fence Vegetation management zones Area 1 Area 2
05010025 Metres 1 Ref: 6589 Author: J B °
Notes: - Infrastructure data and aerial courtesy of Goldwind, received 2016 www.nghenvironmental.com.au
17‐024 B‐II White Rock Solar Farm – SSD Effective Date: 22/01/2018 Doc No. 7487 Environmental Version 6.0 Management Strategy Review Date: 22/01/2018
Appendix G Traffic Management Plan
White Rock Solar Farm – SSD 7487 Environmental Management Strategy UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED. Page 102 of 107
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
Traffic Management Plan
White Rock Solar Farm
Contract Number
Project Number TC 10411
Document No. TC-10411-TMP
Date 22 January 2018
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
REVISION DESCRIPTION & DOCUMENT APROVAL
Project Manager Approved By:
------
Operations Manager Authorised By:
------
Rev Document Title Page/s Author Description Date Initials
Draft Traffic Management Plan 16 19/02/16
0 Traffic Management plant 21 S.Chopra Preliminary Issue for EIS 29/02/2016 SC / TH
1 Traffic Management Plan 20 A.Timms Issue for EMS 16/03/17 AT
2 Traffic Management Plan 23 M.Boutry Issue for EMS following DPE comment 21/04/17 MB
3 Traffic Management Plan 23 M.Boutry Issue for EMS following RMS comment 28/04/17 MB
4 Traffic Management Plan 23 M.Boutry Issue for EMS following Mod 1 22/01/18 MB
This plan and any subsequent revisions are controlled documents and shall be controlled by the Quality Office (QO) and approved by the Project Manager (PM) before re-issue. The Project Manager shall define distribution requirements for this plan and referenced documents. Any minor alterations to this document shall be maintained in the project “W” file. Electronic version of the Plan is maintained in the project “W” file.
DISTRIBUTION OF CONTROLLED COPIES
Where required, maintained copies of this document are issued by the Project Manager to the customer and applicable external organisations. When an update is issued, it is the responsibility of the holder to replace superseded material with the current issue. Superseded material should be "DESTROYED" or marked "SUPERSEDED” as appropriate. A master copy of any document covered by this procedure is filed in the relevant project file, by the document register’s sequential number. Records of this document should be maintained and retained as per EIMS-4-2223 Record Retention.
Distribution of this document will be controlled in the Document Database. As a minimum the following must be provided with an authorised copy.
Quality & Compliance Manager (QC) Document Controller (DC) Project Manager (PM) Gold Wind Site Copy
This work is confidential and may not be disclosed in whole or in part without the written authority of UGL Engineering Pty Ltd. This work and the information and concepts contained in it are the copyright of UGL Engineering Pty Ltd. Use or copying of the work in whole or in part without the written authority of UGL Engineering Pty Ltd infringes copyright.
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
Table of Contents
1 Purpose and Scope 4 2 Project Site Representatives 5 2.1 Contact Details 5 3 Area of Work 5 4 TRAFfic MOVEMENT PLAN 8 5 Emergency 10 6 Approvals 10 7 Notifications 10 7.1 Roads and Maritime Services, Glen Innes Severn Council 11 7.2 Police and Emergency Services 11 7.3 Public 11 8 Construction Site Speed Zones 11 9 Risk Assessment and Management 11 10 SITE and laydown areas 12 10.1 Construction and Lay down Areas 12 10.2 Vehicle Parking 12 10.3 Project Activities – Mobile Plant and Equipment 13 10.4 Towing of Equipment onsite 13 10.5 Inspection and Review Process for Site 13 11 Safety 13 11.1 Pedestrian Management 14 11.2 Safe Driving Requirements 14 11.3 Heavy Plant and Equipment Requirements 14 11.4 Incident Management 14 12 Environmental 15 13 Traffic Control Devices 15 14 Operating conditions 15 15 Variations 15 16 Standards and References 15 Appendix A Risk Assessment 16 Appendix B – TRANSPORT CODE OF CONDUCT 20
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
This Traffic Management Plan (TMP) sets out requirements for the management of traffic around the White Rock Solar Farm (WRSF) project during construction and operation in order to optimise safe vehicle movement and transportation of people, equipment and materials.
This plan is based on the requirements as set in Australian Standard 1742.3-2002 and the project conditions of approval and will be used to provide authorisation of all actions in relation to traffic management. This document and subsequent alterations will be made available to the client for the purposes of reviewing and auditing.
The aim of this Traffic Management Plan is to notify Goldwind, UGL project staff, subcontractors, site personnel, relevant authorities and the local public of changes to traffic conditions and to guard against operations which may pose a hazard to traffic. It is also noted here more detailed plans, specific to site traffic management will be developed during the detailed design phase prior to mobilisation.
This Traffic Management Plan will be used to consult with relevant road authorities to establish traffic and transport arrangements for the project, with the primary intention to ensure a safe interface between construction vehicles and other road users during the Project, particularly for the following activities:
• Construction of the White Rock Solar Farm • Transporting UGL staff and Subcontractors to site. • Transporting all equipment, plant and materials required for the Project to and from the site • Entry to and exit from the Gwydir Highway • Usage of access tracks established for WRWF construction activities
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
2 PROJECT SITE REPRESENTATIVES
2.1 Contact Details
Table 1: Site Contact details Entity Contact Name Contact Number UGL Engineering Project Manager Andrew Timms 0428 272 228 Construction Manager Darrell van Bruchem 0447 307 244 Project Engineer / Supervisor Greg Marriott 0455 068 066 Project Engineer- Electrical Amit Desai 0407 814 537 Project Safety Officer Damien Hitchcock 0466 916 005
WRSF Pty Ltd Project Manager Laura Jeffrey 0404 302 974 Project Representative Medard Boutry 0422 627 345
Authorities Glen Innes Severn Council General Enquires (02) 6730 2300 Environmental Protection Environmental reporting and 13 15 55 Agency (EPA) investigations Roads and Maritime Services Road transport information 13 10 50 Local Police – 000 Emergency 000
Additional emergency contact details are included in Emergency Response and will be displayed in crib rooms and the site office.
3 AREA OF WORK
The project is located at LOT 30 on Gwydir highway, Matheson which is located approximately 22 km west of Glen Innes, NSW. It is also within the broader White Rock Wind Farm (WRWF) project that is being constructed during 2016 and 2017.
The following figure shows the transport routes to WRWF project. The northern access route from Glen Innes to Site Entry Point 1 will be used for the White Rock Solar Farm.
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
Figure 1 – Site Entry to WRSF via Gwydir Highway, shown as Northern entry point 1
Figure 2 - General arrangement of WRSF showing access route
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
Proposed Location of White Rock Solar Farm
Figure 3 - Proposed location of the White Rock Solar Farm
Figure 4 – Gwydir Highway exit detail
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
Figure 5 – Local bus routes (purple lines) in the vicinity of the White Rock Solar Farm (shown in yellow).
The local school bus times are as follows: • Morning pickup at corner of Gwydir Hwy and Ilparran Road: approximately 7:45am
• Afternoon drop off on Waterloo Road (at the church near corner with Gwydir Hwy: approximately 4pm.
Timing of transport will be scheduled to minimise disruption to local traffic or result in safety risks and will avoid the school bus times (± 15 minutes) for heavy vehicle deliveries.
There will be ongoing consultation with the school bus company prior to and during the construction period. The school bus company will also be provided the contact details of the Goldwind Project Representative and UGL Safety Officer. Consultation will occur in the following circumstances: • Within 4 weeks prior to construction commencing to confirm up to date school bus times and any other relevant bus trips to consider. The transport and logistics arrangements (i.e. detailed vehicle movement schedule) for the WRSF would also be communicated to the school bus company • If any significant changes to the planned transport and logistics schedule occur • If any safety concerns are raised or observed relating to interaction with the school bus and project transport vehicles If any relevant changes occur to the bus timetabling, the Goldwind Project Representative and UGL Safety Officer should be made aware. 4 TRAFFIC MOVEMENT PLAN The traffic movements to the site will be in accordance with the Project conditions of approval and will adhere to: (a) That the development does not generate more than: • 32 heavy vehicle movements a day during construction, upgrading or decommissioning; or • 20 heavy vehicle movements a day during operations; on the public road network; and
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
(b) The length of any vehicles used for the development does not exceed 19 metres.
As such, the Project is currently anticipating traffic movements as per the following table:
Timing Average Item No. Duration during Vehicle Notes per day build Assuming 28 modules per pallet, 15.4m 26 pallets per PV Modules 110 3 weeks 7 Mid articulated shipping container, approx. 80000 modules 15.4m Mounting Frame 70 3 weeks 5 Early articulated 15.4m Cabling 20 2 weeks 2 Mid articulated 15.4m Inverter Substations 9 1 week 2 Late articulated Access track construction at the Start & 10m tipper Access Tracks 113 3 weeks 7 start of the build plus Mid Build trucks any repairs required during the build Main dust creating activities would be access track 8.8m service As As construction and Dust suppression 30 2 vehicle required required piling, water tankers (water tanker) to be used as required to suppress any dust For inverter Foundation substations and any excavation and 10 1 week 2 Mid 10m rigid monitoring construction equipment required onsite Provision for extras Small equipment, As As and small materials, materials and 30 2 Light vehicles required required compound supplies supplies and cleaners Provision if additional compound is Start & Compound Setup 8 2 days 4 10m rigid required or if WF End compound is unable to be used Bearing in mind that site staff will peak at times, up to a max of approx. 100 staff at Workers 3600 3 months 40 Duration Light vehicles peak times, less at other times. Staff will be encouraged to car pool where possible. Figure 6 - Anticipated traffic movements
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
During construction, to reduce the volume of traffic, carpooling shall also be encouraged.
Accurate records of the number of heavy vehicles entering or leaving the site each day will be kept. The average number of light vehicles anticipated to be travelling to site each day is 40 as shown in Figure 6. As per Section 4.1 of the project EMS, light vehicle movements will be monitored daily to ensure arrangements are adequate (e.g. on-site parking, vehicle movement and traffic flows). This will inform regular reviews and improvement of traffic control measures adopted to manage peak demand.
Prior to commencement of construction related traffic, a detailed vehicle movement schedule will be prepared by UGL to support this TMP, identifying expected deliveries and traffic flows over the project construction phase.
5 EMERGENCY
In the event of an emergency the Construction Manager will be immediately advised of the event and the UGL Emergency Response Plan will be actioned. Traffic controllers will be equipped with electronic communications (mobile phones) to contact and liaise with emergency services ensuring a prompt response with one dedicated person deployed at the site entrance to stop entry of any vehicle other than emergency services. The UGL Emergency Response Plan that is specific to the site and Project will be developed and agreed prior to UGL commencing works on the site.
6 APPROVALS
All necessary approvals will be obtained from the relevant Road Authority prior to the implementation of traffic controls or physical works on a public road.
Where required, appropriate Traffic Control Plans (TCPs) to address daily construction vehicle movements are to be prepared and approved in accordance with the current Traffic Control at Worksites Manual (TCWSM). Approved TCPs are to be implemented by suitably certified persons and are to be removed / shielded outside of project construction hours.
A Road Occupancy Licence (ROL) would be obtained from Roads and Maritime prior to the implementation of any approved TCP. An online application for the ROL is to be submitted via the Roads and Maritime’s OPLINC online system at least 10 days prior to implementation. Further details can be obtained at: http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/business-industry/road-occupancy- licence/index.html
As the intersection upgrade works at the Gwydir Hwy have already been completed as part of the WRWF project, there is not anticipated to be any additional requirement to implement TCPs or obtain ROL for the WRSF project. It is expected that this would only be required in the event that road repairs are necessary due to road damage confirmed to be caused by the project. Notification for temporary closure of roads or expected traffic delays may need to be communicated to any affected resident or business, if these are required. No such delays or road closures are currently anticipated.
Generally, it is expected approvals maybe required for the following activities:
• Delivery of oversized plant and equipment; • Transporting of materials from suppliers; • Delivery of construction materials (using oversize vehicles) to laydown areas; • Implementation of traffic management schemes, if needed, on public road.
7 NOTIFICATIONS
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
7.1 Roads and Maritime Services, Glen Innes Severn Council
Roads and Maritime Services and Glen Innes Severn Council will be notified prior to WRSF construction commencing and prior to any oversize traffic movement in and out of the construction site. (i.e. Concrete Pours, Large Deliveries,) and appropriate signage posted. Any requisite approvals would be obtained prior to such works occurring (see Section 6).
7.2 Police and Emergency Services
Local Police, ambulance, firefighting and emergency services will be notified of commencement of WRSF construction and any program of oversize or over mass deliveries. This will occur when deliveries brought onto site pose a potential risk to the operation of emergency services, local traffic movement, or the local community.
7.3 Public
Correspondence to the relevant authorities (i.e. emergency services) will include expected dates of disruption to the local area required traffic measures and a contact number for further information.
8 CONSTRUCTION SITE SPEED ZONES
In areas not signposted, the following maximum speed limits will apply:
• 10km/h around UGL Lay down area / Workshop areas, Substation area and when entering areas with pedestrians. The WRWF area has a speed limit of 40km/h unless entering areas with workers on foot where speed limit is reduced to 10km/h; • 100km/h on Gwydir Highway • 50km/h along local residential roads leading into the site; • If concerned about road conditions or work areas, contact your Supervisor and report the reason for concern; • Drive safely to conditions; • Speed Limit as per directions given or signposted at established traffic control points.
9 RISK ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT
All foreseeable hazards and proposed controls are to be included in the Risk Assessment.
Having identified the hazards and risks associated the control measures which can be applied to reduce the risk so far as is reasonably practicable. Every effort must be made to eliminate the need to expose personnel to live traffic. Controls must be selected with priority given in accordance with the hierarchy of controls.
• Elimination - removing the Hazard or hazardous work practice from the Workplace. This is the most effective control measure; • Substitution - substituting or replacing a Hazard or hazardous work practice with a less hazardous one; • Isolation - isolating or separating the Hazard or hazardous work practice from people involved in the work or people in the general work areas from the Hazard. This can be done by installing screens or barriers; or marking hazardous areas; • Engineering Control - if the Hazard cannot be eliminated, substituted or isolated, an engineering control is the next preferred measure. This may include modifications to tools or equipment, guarding of plant etc ; • Administrative Control - includes introducing work practices that reduce the Risk. This could include development of work instructions or the provision of training; and
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
• Personal Protective Equipment - should be considered as a last resort when other control measures are not practical or to increase protection.
Typical controls should be considered such as:
• Elimination - No Plant/Pedestrian interface: o Plan works to prevent interface between pedestrians, workers and plant.
• Substitution - Relocate the place of works: o Move the work area a safe distance from any plant o Perform part of the work at another site to minimise exposure (e.g. pre-assemble/maintain in workshop rather than performing the activity on site)
• Isolation - Protect your workers from construction traffic: o Create walk ways using solid barriers o Barricade work zones/areas where plant is operating o Create exclusion zones for plant such as excavators etc.
• Engineering - Modify your work environment: o Install proximity readers onto plant and personnel o Install height and swing restrictors to plant o All moving plant must be fitted with a flashing beacon, reverse alarm and where required a travel alarm.
• Administration - Implementing procedures: o Use spotters/safety observers to control traffic movement o Implementing safe working distances o Planning the direction that plant moves, so the visibility of operators is not restricted (where practicable plant should always move in a forward direction). o Implement speed limits on site for traffic on your worksite to 10 km/hr. o Site induction to advise workers of the potential hazards associated with the traffic environment Establish and maintain warning signs for traffic/pedestrians o Communication channels between clients, operators and traffic controllers (where applicable) o Hazard warning lights, signs, markers or flags
• PPE - The last line of defence: o High visibility clothing must be worn on all sites.
10 SITE AND LAYDOWN AREAS
Throughout the construction of the White Rock Solar Farm, the main offices and parking areas will be within the designated laydown areas. These areas will be controlled using internal traffic management plans, which include details of specific signs and there locations.
10.1 Construction and Lay down Areas
• It is currently intended for traffic access to and from lay down areas and construction areas shall be via Gwydir Highway as shown on Figure 1 and as detailed on Traffic Control Plans; • Where practicable, a one-way traffic system shall be established within the lay down and construction area to minimise interaction issues;
10.2 Vehicle Parking
• Plenty of parking will be available within the new site. • Parking area shall be adequately signed and fenced off.
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
• Vehicles entry and exit from the site shall be via Gwydir Highway.
10.3 Project Activities – Mobile Plant and Equipment
• Outcomes from this risk assessment shall be integrated within appropriate safe work procedures, JHA’s or other documentation;
• All heavy equipment operators shall be ticketed and have completed a verification of competency (VOC) for the particular machine they will be required to operate on site.
• A common radio channel and call-up protocol is to be implemented along the shared section of haul road and the Gwydir Highway intersection
10.4 Towing of Equipment onsite
• A daily pre-start inspection is to be completed for this equipment. Trailers must be fitted with a secondary securing device (chain), which must be used at all times when being towed. A jockey wheel must also be attached and operational. To tow a trailer or lighting tower, a person must be assessed and deemed competent for this task and have the relevant tickets and VOC verified by the site supervisor.
10.5 Inspection and Review Process for Site
• As a minimum UGL shall perform the following; Daily/ Weekly Inspections and routine audits shall be conducted to ensure compliance to site requirements on Traffic Management; • The weekly inspections will also involve a visual inspection of the condition of the internal roads and the external roads between Glen Innes and the site. If external road damage such as potholes is observed, the relevant road authority will be consulted with regards to repairing the damage. If the road damage can be clearly determined to be as a result of the project, then arrangements would be put in place for repairs to be undertaken. The Transport Code of Conduct (Appendix B of this plan) also includes a requirement for transport vehicle operators to report road damage they observe as a result of the project. As per the EIS traffic assessment, it is generally expected that road damage by vehicles will be avoided as the project transport routes will predominantly be on State Highways and are limited to vehicles no longer than 19m length. • Any scope of work or planned works introducing traffic changes shall initiate a review of traffic control plans. Observed or reported safety issues relating to traffic and transport shall also initiate review. The Transport Code of Conduct at Appendix B, shall also be reviewed and updated throughout the construction period to reflect improvements made to the TMP and to remain responsive to traffic and transport issues as they arise. • Regular coordination with the White Rock Wind Farm (WRWF) project will be undertaken to enable coordination and joint understanding of traffic and transport logistics between the two projects. It is expected that traffic and deliveries associated with the WRWF construction will be greatly reduced in the vicinity of the Gwydir Hwy and the WRSF by the time construction of the WRSF commences in July 2017.
11 SAFETY
This Traffic Management Plan forms part of the overall UGL Project Safety and Environmental Management Plan. All works undertaken on this site will adhere to the Safety Management Plan.
In addition, all personnel and subcontractors shall adhere to these scopes below:
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
11.1 Pedestrian Management
Drivers and operators shall remain alert to the movement of pedestrians anywhere on site, particularly where personnel may be required to cross roads where there is no designated pedestrian walkway.
Pedestrians shall ensure that they:
• Adequately check for approaching vehicles prior to crossing roads; • Have visual / verbal contact and acknowledgment with the vehicle operator before proceeding; • Do not enter the ‘Blind Spot’ of operating mobile plant;
11.2 Safe Driving Requirements
All personnel inducted onsite shall adhere to the following at all time: • Mobile Phones shall not be operated in moving vehicles, plant or equipment. Where mobile phones are to be used, the vehicle must be stationary and parked in a safe place • All vehicles and mobile equipment shall be fitted with seat belts. All personnel shall wear and correctly fit and secure seatbelts provided • A temporary re-fuelling area shall be provided in laydown area for a tanker to be parked with all required environmental control. Minimum requirements for re-fuelling are: 1. The engine is to be shut down and ignition off, left in gear, park brake engaged, 2. Preventative measures required for uncontrolled movement, no person is permitted in the cab while another person is refuelling, 3. No equipment is to be left unattended while refuelling with separation from other traffic. 4. Correct PPE is to be worn when refuelling. Hydrocarbon spill response kit available at re-fuelling areas along with mobile drip tray. It is not intended to provide a gateman at Gwydir Highway, instead a competent traffic management personal shall be available at site at all the time to manage the heavy traffic. In addition, all unauthorised vehicles will not entry sites until an authorised personnel guides them to designated areas. At each entry point to laydown areas a sign will be posted with contact details of relevant contact personnel
11.3 Heavy Plant and Equipment Requirements
Vehicles on site within the immediate area of each other are to establish positive communications with each other via radio communications on the channel specific to operations within the WRSF and WRWF construction sites. Communications via the use of the vehicle horn is only to be used in the instance where positive communications is not established between the parties.
11.4 Incident Management
• Where safe to do so, any vehicle involved in an incident on site shall not be moved until such time as the incident has been investigated and the Goldwind / UGL Project Manager or his/her nominee has issued permission for the vehicle to be moved; • Incidents that occur at the project site, including any incident along access roads, must be reported to the Project Manager or his/her nominee as soon as possible; • Driver of any vehicle involved in an accident shall be required to undertake a Drug and Alcohol test;
All persons and organisations undertaking these works have a duty of care to take all reasonable measures to prevent accident or injury in and outside the project area.
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 4 Date: 22-01-18
12 ENVIRONMENTAL
There are specific environmental concerns associated with construction traffic and these items are addressed in the project Environmental Management System (EMS).
These include standard construction hours and noise criteria.
However note, introduced substances i.e. fuels, oils, dust, noise, pumped water, domestic and trade waste must be managed at all stages of project to reduce impact on Safety and Environmental issues. The low speed limit onsite is intended to minimise the disturbance and creation of dust on the site. Watering of access tracks and dust prone areas onsite will be undertaken when necessary.
13 TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES
Traffic control devices meeting the requirements of AS 1742 shall be installed as indicated on the Traffic Control Diagrams and accordance with requisite approvals (see Section 6).
• Advance Warning signs (refer AS/NZS 1742.3-2002); • Regulatory and other signs / devices: Workmen Ahead, Diagrammatic Traffic Controller, Diagrammatic Man Dig, Prepare to Stop, Speed Advisory, etc. • Provision of accredited (Stop/Go) traffic controllers.
At the completion of traffic management work, the removal of the traffic control devices shall be completed in a controlled manner to minimise the risk to workers and other motorists.
14 OPERATING CONDITIONS As per the Condition of Consent (Schedule 3, Item 4): • The internal roadway will be constructed as an all-weather roadway; • Sufficient parking is to be provided on-site for all vehicles, and no parking is to occur on the public road network in vicinity of the site; • All vehicles are to be loaded and unloaded on site, and enter and leave the site in a forward direction; and • Vehicles leaving the site will be in a clean condition and must not result in dirt being tracked onto the public road network. The intersection upgrade at the Gwydir Hwy has already been completed as part of the White Rock Wind Farm Project with the certificate of Practical Completion received from RMS in February 2017. The solar farm is located in excess of 500m from the Gwydir Hwy. The above points have been incorporated into the project design. If any further works or improvements to the Gwydir Highway will need to be designed and constructed in accordance with the current Austroads Guidelines, Australian Standards and RMS Supplements.
15 VARIATIONS
No departures from the provisions of the standards referred to in section 13 (of this document) have been made within this Traffic Management Plan. Should onsite variations be required, such variations will be recorded upon gaining relevant approvals.
16 STANDARDS AND REFERENCES
• AS 1742.1 - 2003 Manual of uniform traffic control devices - General introduction and index of signs • AS 1742.3 -2009 Manual of uniform traffic control devices - Traffic Control for Works in Roads • ISO 31000-2009 Risk management— Principles and Guidelines
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 0. Date: 19-02-16
APPENDIX A RISK ASSESSMENT
IDENTIFICATION ASSESSMENT OF CONTROLS Inherent / Target
Current Risk Risk
Consequence Consequence
Likelihood Likelihood
Rank Rank
Ref Additional Controls Required Tasks Control Hazard Un-wanted Event Existing Controls (Improve existing controls
Applicable Hierarchy / implement new controls)
• Major traffic movement, major • Road Rules deliveries to be undertaken when
9 M
5 L • C2 C Traffic Increased volume • Road width and line markings L3 flow is minimal. L2
2
1 • Collision Administration Volume • Increase chances of • Existing road signage • Engage traffic control as required accidents occurring as per risk assessment • Maintain speed restrictions
• Advance warning signs • Temporary speed restrictions in place and enforced
13 M 10 M
C3 C3 Vehicle • Speeding Vehicles • Road Rules L3 • On site speed limit 10 km/h in L2
2 • Failure to slow • Collision Administration Speeds • Posted speed signs work areas sufficiently • Inductions for construction personnel • Compliance with speed zones
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IDENTIFICATION ASSESSMENT OF CONTROLS Inherent / Target
Current Risk Risk
Consequence Consequence
Likelihood Likelihood
Rank Rank
Ref Additional Controls Required Tasks Control Hazard Un-wanted Event Existing Controls (Improve existing controls
Applicable Hierarchy / implement new controls)
• Add warning lights to advance warning signs • Decreased traffic • Increase safe work / sign distances
9 M based on road conditions
5 L
C2 C2 Inclement control • Road surface L3 L2
3 • Collision • Works to be postponed if bad Administration Weather effectiveness • Vehicle tyre condition • Vehicles getting weather persists and risk increases stuck in mud • Limit wheeled vehicles to access tracks, use tracked vehicles for other areas
• Road Rules • Advance warning signs (trucks turning) to be in place Site Vehicle • Road width and line markings 13 M • Site vehicles and machinery to 10 M
C3 C3 movements • Existing road signage L3 L2
4 • Traffic • Collision, conflict ensure compliance with SMP and Administration
to and from • Ensure that blind spots are CMP for the project worksite identified and traffic controllers used if necessary. • Ensure mud tracking is prevented by placing effective controls. • Current dial before you dig on site. • Damage to • Non-destructive service locations. services • Positively identify (hand expose, Site • Striking/damaging 13 M 10 M
C3 C3 existing buried • Damage to • L3 vacuum truck) services near Engineering L2
Possible existing service markers 5 machinery
equipment excavations prior to mechanical controls operation services near roadway • Injury to excavation. personnel • Ground Disturbance permits prior to excavations commencing.
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Document ID: EIMS-7-3235 This document was published on: 5/05/2014 Page 17 of 23 Primary reference – EIMS-4-2207 Project Quality Planning and Implementation TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN White Rock Solar Farm Document No TC-10411-TMP Rev: 0. Date: 19-02-16
IDENTIFICATION ASSESSMENT OF CONTROLS Inherent / Target
Current Risk Risk
Consequence Consequence
Likelihood Likelihood
Rank Rank
Ref Additional Controls Required Tasks Control Hazard Un-wanted Event Existing Controls (Improve existing controls
Applicable Hierarchy / implement new controls)
• Check delivery plan prior to arrival on site • Delivery of machinery to be off • Striking overhead loaded on site in suitable location. services Transport of • Safe Lifting plan or methodology • Exceeding load
14 M oversized 18 H agreed
C4 C4 • Vehicle or obstacle limit on bridge or • Road rules L3 L2
6 machinery or conflict • Ensure subcontractor has oversize Administration
roadway • Oversize vehicle permits equipment to vehicle permit • Service damage • Striking fixed site • Use reputable subcontractor object example - • Check for bridge load limits sign or traffic light surrounding site • Ensure services have appropriate cover or protect with road plates
• All emergency vehicles must be given priority through worksite at
• Emergency vehicle 13 M all times and shall be guided by
5 L
C3 C3 Emergency • Traffic controller L3 L2
7 • emergency incident delayed by site the competent traffic Administration Services • Pilot vehicles road works management personal. • Instruction for emergency services shall be provided at site entrance.
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APPENDIX B – TRANSPORT CODE OF CONDUCT
A.1 Transport Code of Conduct
A Transport Code of Conduct will be applied to all traffic and transport construction activities associated with the WRSF Project, with particular emphasis placed on the transport of oversize/overmass vehicles during the construction phase. The Code of Conduct will be reviewed and endorsed by the Project Manager prior to implementation. The Code of Conduct will be reviewed and updated throughout the construction period to reflect improvements made to the TMP and to remain responsive to traffic and transport issues as they arise.
A.1.1 Haulage Routes and timing of transport
All large vehicles associated with the Project will follow the designated haulage route and main roads near the Project area to minimise impact to local roadways and road users. A map of the primary haulage routes highlighting critical locations will be attached to the Final Transport Code of Conduct. Any School Zones and school bus routes (see Figure 5 of TMP) corresponding to the transport routes will be marked on the route maps. The local school bus times are as follows: • Morning pickup at corner of Gwydir Hwy and Ilparran Road: approximately 7:45am
• Afternoon drop off on Waterloo Road (at the church near corner with Gwydir Hwy: approximately 4pm.
Timing of transport will be scheduled to minimise disruption to local traffic or result in safety risks and will avoid the school bus times (± 15 minutes) for heavy vehicle deliveries.
Transport Code of Conduct Primary Haulage Routes Map(s) of primary haulage routes highlighting critical locations will be provided to relevant vehicle drivers on finalisation of the logistics contract and confirmation of port of origin for solar farm components. Solar panel components are expected to be transported by road from Brisbane and/or Newcastle Ports. Figure 1 shows the transport route in the local region which bypasses the centre of Glen Innes as requested by Glen Innes Severn Council during consultation for the White Rock Wind Farm project.
A.1.2 Behavioural Requirements
The operators of all vehicles associated with the Project would maintain a high level of conduct and respect for other road users. All operators will undergo an induction prior to undertaking any transport to site and regular toolbox meetings will be held maintain awareness of required controls. Details of the traffic and access training and induction will focus on: • objectives of the TMP;
• performance goals;
• mitigation measures required to be implemented;
• traffic and access monitoring and reporting requirements; and
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• incident investigation and response.
Training is to be provided prior to start-up of any traffic and access related management tasks and updated if task, equipment or procedures are expected to, or have changed. The following requirements would be exercised at all times: • obey all the laws and regulations;
• not drive whilst under the influence of alcohol, drugs, nor any medication which may affect their ability to drive;
• be medically fit to drive at all times and must inform site co-ordinators if they have any medical condition which may affect their ability to drive;
• drive in a considerate manner at all times and respect the rights of others to use and share the road space;
• report all vehicle defects to their employer. Serious defects must be corrected immediately or an alternative vehicle supplied;
• report any vehicle accident resulting in injury/or damage to property must be reported to the police;
• report any near misses;
• report evidence of road damage (public and site roads) as a result of the project (e.g. potholes)
• only drive in the construction hours when conducting Project works (unless permission to conduct Project works has been provided);
• securely fasten and cover loads, as appropriate; and
• keep their vehicle clean and in good mechanical condition to reduce the environmental impact.
The transport contractor is to develop and implement • safety initiatives for haulage through residential areas and/or school zones; and • a maintenance program for the heavy transport vehicles that is consistent with these safety requirements.
A.1.3 Safety Initiatives for haulage through residential areas and/or school zones
Safety initiatives for haulage through residential areas and/or school zones will developed in consultation with RMS, Glen Innes Severn Council and other stakeholders and be incorporated in the final Transport Code of Conduct. Refer to A1.1 regarding bus times and safety precautions that have been established.
A.1.4 Maintenance Requirements
The operators of all vehicles associated with the Project would maintain a high level of maintenance. The following requirements would be exercised at all times:
©2013, A UGL Limited Company ABN 096 365 972 Once printed this document becomes uncontrolled. Refer to UGLEIMS for controlled copy.
Document ID: EIMS-7-3235 This document was published on: 5/05/2014 Page 21 of 23 Primary reference – EIMS-4-2207 Project Quality Planning and Implementation TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN Western Power – Shenton Park 132/11kV SubstationT0348702 Document No 3200-0464-TMP Rev: A. Date: 7-10-14
• ensure their vehicle complies with relevant State legislation in relation to roadworthiness and modifications;
• undergo regular vehicle checks and maintenance; and
• ensure their vehicles have correctly fitted mufflers to minimise noise disturbance.
A.1.5 Speed Limits
All vehicles associated with the Project are required to travel within the posted speed limits on public roads. In situations where drivers visibility and traffic safety on public roads is affected by weather related conditions such as heavy rainfall or fog, construction vehicles should reduce their speed limit until visibility and traffic safety has improved. In areas not signposted, the following maximum speed limits will apply:
• 10km/h around UGL Lay down area / Workshop areas, Substation area and when entering areas with pedestrians. The WRWF area has a speed limit of 40km/h unless entering areas with workers on foot where speed limit is reduced to 10km/h; • 100km/h on Gwydir Highway • 50km/h along local residential roads leading into the site; • If concerned about road conditions or work areas, contact your Supervisor and report the reason for concern; • Drive safely to conditions; • Speed Limit as per directions given or signposted at established traffic control points. Monitoring systems will be implemented to ensure speed limits are complied with at the Project site.
A.1.6 Complaint resolution and disciplinary procedure
All traffic related complaints will be managed in accordance with the WRSF Complaints Management System described in the Project Stakeholder and Community Engagement Plan. Complaints will be investigated and a report prepared on the circumstances of the complaints, risks arising and any non-compliance with project procedures. Failure to comply with any procedures for safe transport may result in dismissal of specific operator(s) from the project.
A.1.7 Community consultation for peak haulage periods
WRSF community consultation in relation to traffic and access will include on-going consultation with relevant stakeholders including, local landholders, emergency services, business owners, school bus companies in relation to haulage including: • procedures to consult with local land owners and school bus routes and timetables (see Figure 5);
• procedures to inform vehicle drivers and business owners in Glen Innes of the traffic routes to be used by heavy vehicles associated with the Project (range of media, radio, newspapers, newsletters, website);
• operators to provide feedback on any risks or issues arising for the transport;
©2013, A UGL Limited Company ABN 096 365 972 Once printed this document becomes uncontrolled. Refer to UGLEIMS for controlled copy.
Document ID: EIMS-7-3235 This document was published on: 5/05/2014 Page 22 of 23 Primary reference – EIMS-4-2207 Project Quality Planning and Implementation TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN Western Power – Shenton Park 132/11kV SubstationT0348702 Document No 3200-0464-TMP Rev: A. Date: 7-10-14
• construction traffic routes and any potential impacts; and
• provision of a dedicated telephone contacts list to enable any issues or concerns to be rapidly identified and addressed.
Specific stakeholders and contact details will be identified for traffic and access consultation purposes. Consultation will be undertaken in accordance with the Stakeholder and Community Engagement Plan provided at Appendix L of the EMS.
©2013, A UGL Limited Company ABN 096 365 972 Once printed this document becomes uncontrolled. Refer to UGLEIMS for controlled copy.
Document ID: EIMS-7-3235 This document was published on: 5/05/2014 Page 23 of 23 Primary reference – EIMS-4-2207 Project Quality Planning and Implementation White Rock Solar Farm – SSD Effective Date: 22/01/2018 Doc No. 7487 Environmental Version 6.0 Management Strategy Review Date: 22/01/2018
Appendix H Erosion and Sediment Control Plan
White Rock Solar Farm – SSD 7487 Environmental Management Strategy UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED. Page 103 of 107
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0 20 40 60 80 100 200m
SCALE 1:2000 AT ORIGINAL SIZE
UGL WHITE ROCK SOLAR PV NUGENT SITE ABN 96 096 365 972 26 APR 2017 40 Miller Street FIXED PV LAYOUT North Sydney NSW 2060 EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL www.ugllimited.com PLAN
A1 1:2000 D -
UGL WHITE ROCK SOLAR PV NUGENT SITE 25 FEB 2016 ABN 96 096 365 972 40 Miller Street FIXED PV LAYOUT North Sydney NSW 2060 EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL www.ugllimited.com DETAILS
A1 1:2000 A White Rock Solar Farm – SSD Effective Date: 22/01/2018 Doc No. 7487 Environmental Version 6.0 Management Strategy Review Date: 22/01/2018
Appendix I Emergency Response Plan
White Rock Solar Farm – SSD 7487 Environmental Management Strategy UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED. Page 104 of 107
WRSF Emergency Response Procedure White Rock Solar Farm
Emergency Response Plan
Prepared by:
Goldwind Australia Pty. Ltd. Suite 2, Level 23 – 201 Elizabeth Street, Sydney NSW 2000
WR-PM-PRC-0005 17/06/2018 V3.0
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Contents Emergency Response Plan ...... 1 1 Introduction ...... 3 2 Scope ...... 3 3 Solar Farm Overview ...... 4 3.1 Site Construction Compound ...... 7 3.2 Site Muster Locations ...... 7 4 SITE EVACUATION PLAN ...... 8 ROUTE MAP Hospital ...... 9 5 Bushfire Risk Management ...... 10 5.1 Site Bushfire Characteristics ...... 10 5.2 Consultation with the RFS and Fire & Rescue ...... 10 5.2.1 Consultation undertaken to date ...... 10 5.3 Bushfire Hazard Assessment ...... 12 5.4 Bushfire Mitigation Strategies ...... 12 6 Operational Fire Risk Management ...... 15 7 Spill Control Procedure / Plan ...... 17 8 Communications and Equipment ...... 17 8.1 Site Communications ...... 17 8.2 Site Equipment ...... 18 9 Roles and Responsibilities ...... 20 10 Emergency Contact Numbers ...... 21 11 Emergency Preparedness and Continual Improvement ...... 22 12 Emergency Conditions: ...... 23
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1 Introduction
Goldwind Australia Pty Ltd (GWA) readily acknowledges and accepts it’s moral and legal responsibilities to Health, Safety and Environment Management and the achievement of results that befit a Global Leader. As part of the process of meeting this obligation, GWA is committed to emergency management. Emergencies by nature have no defined pattern or preferred location. Generally, their onset is sudden and unforeseen and possible examples include natural events such as earthquake, flood and electrical storms, fires, explosions, road accidents, plague or epidemic, acts of war, hi-jacks, siege or riot, and disruptions to essential services. The Emergency Response Plan is designed to provide guidance on how to manage the occurrence of specific emergencies that may occur. It is a process of “preparing for the unexpected” and the Emergency Response Plan is supported through training and undertaking of drills or exercises with local Emergency Services to ensure all parties are suitably skilled and ensure the ongoing review and improvement of its content. The events and actions indicated are provided as a guide to assist in the management and control of any emergencies that may occur onsite and do not preclude the implementation of other actions deemed necessary and appropriate to control any risk in the event of an emergency. 2 Scope
This plan is developed specifically for White Rock Solar Farm and is designed to facilitate a rapid, cooperative response to any foreseeable emergency within the White Rock Solar Farm site and during employees travelling to and from site. As the White Rock Solar Farm is located within the overarching project area of the White Rock Solar Farm, this ERP aligns closely with the White Rock Solar Farm ERP and Bushfire Risk Management Plan. Response priorities for White Rock Solar Farm are the protection and preservation of: • Life – worker safety; • Property – GWA and stakeholder assets at White Rock Solar Farm; • The environment, heritage and cultural resources; • Contractual/commercial arrangements and White Rock Solar Farm operations; and • The reputation and image of GWA.
This plan applies to work during the construction and operation phase of the project and forms a sub plan of the project Environmental Management Strategy. UGL is responsible for the construction of the WRSF and is engaged for the first two years of Operations and Maintenance of the facility. This plan applies to GWA and GWI employees, contractors and consultants engaged through GWA. All contractors will be responsible for their own internal arrangements necessary to give effect to the actions required under this plan. All contractor Emergency Response Plans are subordinate to this plan and should be read in conjunction with this plan to ensure that no conflicting procedures/actions exist. This Plan has been reviewed by the local RFS (Northern Tablelands Office) for comment, specific to the management of construction impacts and risks. The plan has been updated to include operations of the WRSF and specifically address the comments provided by NSW Fire and Rescue to the project EIS (refer to Section 6).
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3 Solar Farm Overview
The White Rock Solar Farm (WRWF) is located in Matheson, predominantly within the Glen Innes Severn Local Government Area. The WRSF project area is about 20km west of Glen Innes and about 40km east of Inverell. The land has been substantially cleared but retains areas of remnant grassy woodland. The site has previously been used for sheep and cattle grazing. The WRSF is located within and adjacent to the White Rock Wind Farm (WRWF) project area as shown in Figure 1. The two projects form part of a hybrid wind/solar facility. The solar farm is located on several land holdings owned by one land landowner. The property is within and adjacent to agricultural areas used for sheep and cattle grazing and cropping. There are 12 residences located within 4 km of the project site, including two within 1 km of the site (refer to Figure 2). Property details are provided in Section 9. The electricity generated from the WRSF is transported to the substation developed as part of the WRWF via 33kV underground cabling. The 33kV cable back to the WRWF substation traverses multiple properties and is generally co-located with the WRWF collection cables. The layout of the WRSF is shown in Figure 3. The WRSF is accessed from the Gwydir Highway via an access track of approximately 1.4km length. The Gwydir Highway turnoff and part of the access road (~700m) is shared with the WRWF (refer to Figure 3). The final design plan for the WRSF is provided at Figure 4.
Figure 1. White Rock Solar Farm Project Site (yellow outline) and relationship to White Rock Wind Farm (red outline)
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Substation
Figure 2. WRWF and WRSF Landowner Map
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Site Muster point Site Manifest Box Location Ecological enhancement areas
Figure 3. WRSF Overview Map
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MVPS Unit / Power Conversion Blocks
Figure 4. WRSF Final Layout Plan
3.1 Site Construction Compound A construction office and laydown area has been established in the northwestern corner of the solar farm, approximately 1.4km from the Gwydir Highway as shown in Figure 3. The site construction compound will be decommissioned and removed from site upon the completion of construction.
3.2 Site Muster Locations The Primary Muster Location during construction is the Site Construction Office in the Site Compound. In the event of the Site Construction Office being the scene of an emergency or circumstances preventing access, the Secondary Muster Locations for White Rock Solar Farm is to be: • Laydown area next to the site compound. This is also the designated muster point during Operations.
In the event of an emergency all personnel are to gather at the relevant muster location unless instructed via radio communication to access an alternative muster location.
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4 SITE EVACUATION PLAN
In the event that an emergency situation arises and results in the emergency services being called the following will take place with the nominated EPC Contractor HSE Representative or delegated representative shall undertake the following: 1. In conjunction with the Project Construction Manager decide to evacuate 2. Instruct all site workers, using mobile phone and UHF Radio, to assemble at the nominated muster point(s) and exit route(s) as shown on the site evacuation plan 3. Ensure workers immediately proceed calmly to the designated muster point 4. Undertake a roll call or head count to be performed at each muster point to ensure that a full complement of workers and visitors to the project have been duly accounted for 5. Receive notification from the muster point of all persons being accounted for, or those determined to be missing and their last known location 6. Workers and visitors to the project shall remain at the muster point where they have assembled until told to relocate by either the HSE Site Representative (or delegate) or emergency services 7. Brief emergency services on arrival to the site of the roll call or head count at the various muster location(s) and any potential unaccounted person(s) 8. communicate the declaration that the site is “Safe to Return” when in consultation with emergency services 9. Coordinate workers and visitors to return to work 10. Commence incident reporting and investigation according to the relevant procedure.
Further, a construction and operation protocol will be established to formalise arrangements between the WRWF Project and the WRSF Project. The nearest medical facility is identified on the following diagram:
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ROUTE MAP HOSPITAL Glen Innes District Health 94 Taylor St, Glen Innes NSW 2370
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5 Bushfire Risk Management
5.1 Site Bushfire Characteristics The WRSF is located on gently sloping land, at an elevation between 970 and 980 m Above Sea Level (ASL). The land mainly comprises exotic grass which is currently grazed and has been largely cleared of trees and shrubs. A treed corridor exists to the north of the site, along the southern boundary of the Gwydir Highway along with several isolated stands of trees that are located on the adjoining property within five-hundred (500) meters of the site. The WRSF Project is not located on land mapped as Bushfire Prone Land1. The bushfire danger for the WRSF Development Envelope and wider region is generally between 1st October and 31st March, but can vary subject to local conditions. Summer conditions can be dry and hot with high wind speeds. Ignition sources for the site could include machinery movement in long grass, lightning strikes, storage of fuel and farm chemicals, and cigarette butts thrown from cars travelling along the Gwydir Highway or from personnel on site.
5.2 Consultation with the RFS and Fire & Rescue
5.2.1 Consultation undertaken to date There has been consultation with the RFS and Fire & Rescue throughout the early planning stages of the WRSF and throughout the WRWF project planning and development as shown in Table 1. Table 1. Consultation undertaken to date with fire authorities Stage of Project Agency Consultation Details WRSF Project During Project NSW Fire On 12 April 2016, NSW Fire & Rescue provided a submission to the WRSF Application process & Rescue DA application and EIS. The submission comprised of various requests, including that an ERP be developed for the WRSF with specific requirements for the potential emergency situations that have been identified. Pre-construction NSW Fire GWA submitted the draft ERP to the RFS (Superintendent, Northern & Rescue Tablelands Team) on 10 March 2017 to provide the opportunity for / RFS comment prior to DPE submission. A response was received 22 March 2017 confirming no additional comments at this time. Consultation will continue with RFS and NSW Fire & Rescue during the detailed design pre-construction phase and the ERP updated accordingly WRWF Project During Project RFS On 1st August 2011, RFS advised DPE of its assessment requirements for Application process the White Rock Wind Farm. These have been addressed by the Project Statement of Commitments for the WRWF and have also been incorporated into the project Construction Environment Management Plan (CEMP) and this ERP. Post Approval and RFS On 28th September 2015. NSW RFS provided comment on the draft Pre-construction Bushfire Risk Management Plan for the WRWF Project. Consultation has occurred with Manager Northern Tablelands Team (Glen Innes).
1 pers comm Manager of Regulatory and Planning Services, Glen Innes Severn Council, 11 February 2016
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During construction LEMC On 6th October 2017 a joint emergency drill was held with WRWF which involved the Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) During construction, NSW Fire This updated ERP was sent to NSW Fire & Rescue and RFS to inform these prior to & Rescue agencies of the operational arrangements associated with emergency commencement of / RFS management and electrical isolation of the facility during operations. Operations
1.1.1 Ongoing consultation
Prior to and during the construction phase of the WRSF, regular consultation with the local NSW RFS is proposed to be undertaken to ensure appropriate bushfire management and mitigation strategies are in place and to familiarize NSW RFS and other emergency service groups with the project in the case of a bushfire occurring on site. The primary contact person for liaison is the WRSF Project Construction Manager and the Goldwind contact being the Corporate Health Safety and Environmental Manager. The following consultation program hasbeen implemented. Table 2. Ongoing consultation to be undertaken with fire authorities Stage of Project Agency Consultation Details Responsibility WRSF Project Pre-construction RFS / Fire Following approval of the ERP from the DPE, a copy WRSF Project & Rescue of the approved Emergency Response Plan would be Construction provided to the RFS (Glen Innes Fire Control Centre) Manager and NSW Fire and Rescue. During construction RFS / Fire emergency drill with RFS (within three (3)- EPC Contractor’s NSW Fire months of site establishment). The fire emergency HS&E Representatives and drill/s may be done in conjunction with the WRWF Rescue emergency drill/s. Close consultation with RFS and as relevant FRNSW, prior to solar farm operations commencing would be an effective time to confirm an emergency management for the operations phase. The ERP will be further updated prior to the commissioning/energisation of the solar farm to ensure all relevant equipment and site-specific controls are documented based on the as constructed detail. This will address the submission received from NSW Fire and Rescue regarding first responder safety associated with the on-site electrical hazards. During operation RFS Regular drills with RFS (5-yearly) and any other Operations Manager legislative requirements Initial drill within 6 months of commencement of operations
The local RFS would be invited on an as-needs basis to assist and participate in fire drills during construction and operation phases. Greater attention to awareness and readiness will be given at start of the 'Bush Fire Danger Period' and prior to Bush Fire Risk increasing.
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During construction, the EPC contractor’s HS&E representative would be responsible for arranging fire drills within three months of construction commencing, and further as required. These fire drills and ancillary emergency rehearsals would assess the following: 1. Site preparedness for fire emergencies including but not limited to the availability and location of suitable fire-fighting agencies, access and egress and fire warden training. Fire-fighting equipment will be available at the construction office and laydown area. Fire extinguishers will also be provided in construction and operations vehicles. 2. The site emergency evacuation procedures, including staff awareness of emergency protocols 3. Consultation and communication protocols with emergency services (i.e. the Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) in line with the WRWF Project).
5.3 Bushfire Hazard Assessment The bushfire hazard assessment identifies those activities that would be undertaken on site during the construction phase of the WRSF that may present a bushfire risk; and provides strategies for managing this risk. The plan details the relevant protocols and strategies for managing fires if they originate on site or in the event of an external fire threatening the solar farm, nearby wind farm or nearby properties. Activities that would take place during construction (and limited during operations) of the WRSF and are potential bushfire hazards are summarised as follows: • Hot work (welding, use of blow torch, angle-grinding etc.) • Use of vehicles (and other equipment with internal combustion engines) • Electrical faults during testing and commissioning • Storage and use of flammable materials (refuelling, etc) • Smoking Activities / events that could initiate fire once the WRSF is operational include: • Electrical faults • Maintenance activities (e.g. potential hot works, vegetation slashing) • Use of vehicles (and other equipment with internal combustion engines). Potential threats arising from these activities include: • Ignition of fire through the generation of sparks, use of naked flame etc. • Damage to WRSF infrastructure through fire (smoke, radiant heat, flame contact, ember attack and ash) • Damage to nearby properties or other assets in the event of a fire that could not be controlled • Injury/fatality to personnel on site, emergency services personnel, the public and/or cattle. Considering the sparse and fragmented nature of the woodland and forest remnants flanking the WRSF Development Envelope, it is considered unlikely that the WRSF Project would pose a significant bush fire risk. Bush fire hazards associated with the activities listed above are considered manageable and would be minimised through the implementation of fire and bush fire mitigation measures outlined below. In addition, site access would be formalised at the beginning of the construction phase which would increase the ability to access, contain and suppress any fire onsite or on adjoining sites if required.
5.4 Bushfire Mitigation Strategies Bushfire mitigation strategies are provided in Table 3.
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Table 3 – Bushfire mitigation strategies Issue Control Measure Responsibility Design All electrical equipment would be designed in accordance with EPC Contractor relevant codes and industry acceptable practice standards within Australia. The Operation and Maintenance Building (shared asset with WRWF) would comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA). Adequate fire asset protection zones are incorporated into design prior to construction and commissioning. General Safety management processes to highlight to all staff and EPC Contractor contractors through an induction process of the potential hazards associated with construction activities onsite. This will include preparation and compliance with job-specific SWMS’ and emergency preparation/response drills as nominated and required. Designation of a dedicated WRSF onsite safety representative EPC Contractor’s HS&E responsible for ensuring implementation of nominated safeguards. Representative The representative shall regularly consult with the local NSW RFS and (relating to Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) to ensure construction) familiarity with the WRSF Project and assist the RFS and emergency Goldwind HSE services as much as practical if there is a fire on-site during Representative construction of the WRSF Project. (relating to ongoing operations) Basic training of all staff in the use of fire-fighting equipment as EPC Contractor HSE required. Representative Appropriate fire-fighting equipment shall be held on site to respond EPC Contractor to any fires that may occur at the site during construction of the
WRSF Project. The equipment will include but not limited to fire extinguishers, at minimum a 1000 litre water cart retained on site as a precautionary basis. Equipment lists will be detailed in Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS’). Slashing of vegetation on construction site before construction starts EPC Contractor and as required to manage fuel loads.
All access and egress tracks on the site will be maintained and kept EPC Contractor free of parked vehicles to enable rapid response for firefighting
crews and to avoid entrapment of staff, in the case of a bush fire emergencies. The use of a Hot Works Permit system to ensure several pre- EPC Contractor requisites are satisfied, prior to works commencing. Fire
extinguishers would be present during all hot works (as per hot works requirements). Where practical restrict the performance of Hot Works to specific EPC Contractor areas (such as the Construction Compound temporary workshop
areas).
Provide adequate site communications to ensure a fire event is EPC Contractor communicated quickly. Communication measures will include:
- Use of mobile phones. - Use of UHF radios.
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- Fire Danger Warning signs located at the entrance to the site compounds (if deemed necessary) and communicated at daily pre- start meetings. Specific management activities/controls for hot works, vehicle use, smoking, and use of flammable materials.
Hot work (welding, • Total Fire Ban days would be communicated at pre-start meetings EPC Contractor use of oxy- • Basic training through staff and contractor induction processes to acetylene cutting raise awareness of risk and ensure controls are understood. torches, angle- grinding, use of • Only qualified personnel to use welding equipment (if required). explosive power • All hot works require a hot works permit. tools etc.) • To ensure potential risk of fire or explosion resulting from the hot works is eliminated, an area within a radius of five (5) metres (standard exclusion zone) around the point where the hot works is being undertaken, including the space above and below that area, will be clear of flammable debris including vegetation that is likely to be an ignition source. • Presence of 5000 litre water cart on site throughout hot works activities.
Vehicle use (and • Confine vehicle access to designated tracks only. If it is necessary EPC Contractor other equipment to detour from tracks, minimise driving vehicles through long with internal grass, particularly on Total Fire Ban days. combustion All personnel • Maintaining vehicles and equipment in good working condition. engines) • Refuelling on site would occur for large plant and equipment. Refuelling would be of diesel only (low flash point) and would occur only on designated areas • Spill kits will be carried in all heavy machinery or placed around the work areas. Training in spill kit use would occur during the site induction and determine the level of competency required by the GWA HSE Representative. All vehicles are required to carry an operational fire extinguisher that is tagged and tested for compliance according to Australian Standards. Smoking Smoking is only permitted at designated areas such as a location at EPC Contractor the compound. Cigarette butts will be disposed of correctly in All personnel appropriate receptacles. Storage and use of Ensure appropriate storage and handling of flammable materials. EPC Contractor flammable
materials Monitoring and Maintain vegetation (e.g. allow sheep to graze) to a low level EPC Contractor reporting amongst solar panels to control vegetation on the solar farm site. Goldwind Monitor height of surrounding grass and implement additional mitigations as appropriate (e.g. slashing). Monitor asset protection zone access track around solar farm and maintain as appropriate
Regularly monitor relevant website/s, especially if smoke is observed EPC Contractor (HSE in the area (e.g. http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fires- Representative) near-me).
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6 Operational Fire Risk Management
The risk of fire ignition from on-site activities will be significantly reduced once construction activities are completed and the site is operational. However, should a fire or hazardous material incident occur once the site is operational, it is important that first responders have ready access to information which enables effective control measures to be implemented. Below are details regarding the shutdown and isolation of the solar farm in the event of an incident that requires such action. The solar farm SCADA system will be monitored from the wind farm main Operations and Maintenance Facility, located near to the solar farm entrance accessed from the Gwydir Highway. The Photovoltaic modules can be isolated from the Circuit Breaker inside the relevant combiner box. There is one combiner box for every five racks of solar panels. The racks with combiner boxes on site can be identified by a black dot on the rack adjacent to the internal access tracks The isolation point is the switch handle at the top of the combiner box (refer to Plate 1 and Plate 2). If the combiner box is not accessible due to fire or other hazard., then the Direct Current (DC) feeds from the combiner boxes can be isolated via the relevant fuses inside the Power Conversion Blocks (also referred to in UGL documents as MVPS units). Refer to Plate 3 and Plate 4. There are four MVPS units within the solar farm array as shown at Figure 4. High Voltage switching at the substation is required to completely shut down the MVPS units (i.e. operating RMU inside the MVPS units and opening of 33kV Circuit Breaker at the substation). Only qualified and authorized persons are to interact with the electrical equipment.
Switch handle for isolation
Plate 1. WRSF Combiner Box with door closed Plate 2. WRSF Combiner Box with door open. The isolation point is the switch handle at the top of the box.
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Plate 3. View of RMU inside the Power Conversion Plate 4. View of RMU inside the Power Conversion Blocks Blocks (MVPS unit) on site (MVPS unit) on site
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7 Spill Control Procedure / Plan
The Spill Control Procedure to be applied for the WRSF project is shown the below flow chart 8 Communications and Equipment
8.1 Site Communications 3G/4G mobile phones are carried by all personnel, although reception is limited on site. All working parties on-site must have access to a UHF multi frequency radio for emergency communications. In addition, they will be provided with Emergency Contact Numbers as part of the induction for: • Relevant project personnel • Local Emergency Services (police, fire and ambulance) • Local Medical Facilities • Other GWA key contacts
UHF Radios UHF multi-frequency radios are required for all Workers that are engaged to work onsite (at least one (1) per work crew). Where a team of Workers are engaged to work in a single location, a single UHF operational radio is to be issued to the team and a radio communications check undertaken at the start of the day. UHF radio channels must be determined, prior to use and approved by the Site Construction Manager for use. The UHF emergency channel shall be determined prior to the commencement of the project and communicated during the induction process to all relevant workers. Emergency Services will adopt this channel when on-site, to establish communication with site workers.
Site Manifest Box This box is secured to the site compound fence directly adjacent to the site entry point. The Site Manifest Box is also referred to as the ‘Emergency Information Cabinet’ in NSW Fire & Rescue correspondences and would contain the following up to date information which is referred to by emergency services immediately upon entering the site: • Emergency contact details: o Site Construction Manager; o Site HSE Representative; o Goldwind Corporate HSE Manager; o Land Owner; and o Electrical Authority. • Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all hazardous substances on-site; • Site diagram detailing: o Power Conversion Block (PCB) locations and numbers; o First aid and Fire Fighting resources (type and location); o Primary and Secondary Muster Locations; o Parking for emergency service vehicles (including proposed command point); o Spill kit locations • A copy of this Emergency Response Plan.
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8.2 Site Equipment Medical First Aid First aid kit selections have been determined against the National Code of Practice considering along with the relevant risks associated with the following: • The type of work being undertaken; • Location of the work; • Number of potential workers; • Working conditions; • Training of GWA workers; and • Distance of emergency services.
First Aid Kits are in: • Site Office; and • Service Vehicle(s).
Contractor and GWA Site workers who are trained and hold a current First Aid Certificate in Apply First Aid and CPR are identified during full and visitor inductions. Contact details are displayed on the HSEQ notice board in the site office. Expiry dates for first aid consumables are checked by the Site HSEQ representative at prescribed intervals. First aid consumables or equipment that is used, is immediately replaced by the HSE Representative to ensure resources are maintained and in full compliance with expiry dates.
Fire Fighting Equipment Fire extinguishers are located in: • Construction Compounds and Laydown Areas • WRWF Operations and Maintenance Facility • Site Vehicles
The Project Water Cart: A minimum 1000-liter water tank and hose is available for hot works and for extinguishing a small grass/bush fire (first defense/response only). Site personnel should never: • Attack a structural or large grass/bush fire; • Give the tanker to anyone other than an emergency service; • Assist in the protection of other property; or • Use this or any other piece of firefighting equipment without prior training.
Additionally, where hot works are proposed, portable firefighting knapsacks / fire extinguishers will be available at the location where the hot works is to be carried out.
Identification • Signage is provided at each location, indicating locations of each extinguisher.
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• A copy of the Emergency Response Plan is located at the site entrance (in the site manifest box) and in the construction office on the HSEQ Notice Board.
Access • Fire extinguishers must be easily accessible at all times. • Plant and equipment must never be placed in such a position as to hinder access. • Fire extinguisher should remain on purpose build brackets above the ground as required.
Inspection and testing: By a competent person
Item Fortnightly Monthly 3-monthly 6-monthly Annual
Fire Extinguisher ✓
Fire Blanket ✓
Smoke Detector ✓
Emergency lighting & ✓ Exit signs
Eye wash station (or ✓ bottle as appropriate)
Furphy Trailer / Water ✓ Cart
Emergency equipment, exit signs, paths of travel and alarm systems are inspected, tested and maintained as per the schedule in the Table above. Firefighting equipment must be determined in contractors SWMS for all hot work. A hot works permit system shall be in place to ensure pre-requisites are satisfied prior to works commencing. Spill Kit A general purpose Spill Kit is located at the Construction Office and Laydown Area. Additional bags of general purpose spill absorbent are to be located at the site compound.
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9 Roles and Responsibilities
Role Responsibilities • Ensure that the Site Evacuation Procedure, including the identification of the muster location, is explained in the induction to all full and visitor inductions. • Ensuring that all workers know the location of and have access to the site ERP Site Construction Manager (or deputy / stand-in) / WRSF Operations Manager • Preparing for and agreeing to the undertaking of a six (6) monthly emergency rehearsal (as a minimum) during construction and as appropriate during operations. This should also be coordinated with the WRWF Operations Manager.
• Assist in the development and review of appropriate procedures through consultation and communication. • Coordinate the delivery of and participate in routine emergency rehearsals. • Observe actions taken and complete records of rehearsals Site HSE Representative undertaken. • Ensure that all emergency resources are maintained and readily available for use when required. • Conduct Quarterly audits on Emergency Response Equipment
• Participate in the review of emergency response procedure • Participate in planned testing of emergency procedures and evacuations. Workers & Contractors • In the event of an emergency follow the direction identified in the ERP by the Site Construction Manager or nominated delegate
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10 Emergency Contact Numbers
EMERGENCY PERSONNEL
STAFF NAME POSITION PHONE EMAIL Leo Holmes Goldwind Corporate HSEQ 0491 214 343 [email protected] Manager Andrew Timms UGL Project Manager 0428 272 228 [email protected] Mark Brabant WRWF Site Service Manager 0459 850 566 [email protected] Donnacha Culloo UGL Construction Manager 0439 168 315 [email protected] Neil Maiden UGL WRSF Operations (07) 3001 1118 [email protected] Contact
Client Contact WRSFPL Project Manager– Dan Ford 0438 635 032 WRSPL Project Director – Leigh Walters 02 9008 1713
Landowner Contact (refer to Figure 2) Details extracted for online version
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11 Emergency Preparedness and Continual Improvement
Emergency Exercises
The Site Construction Manager shall prepare for and agree to the undertaking of a six (6) monthly emergency rehearsal (as a minimum) during construction to assess the suitability and effectiveness of the Emergency Response Plan (commencing within 3 months of the start of construction), observe actions taken and to assess the preparedness of all persons.
Results and areas of improvement would be provided back into the GWA and Contractor management systems along with this emergency response plan, as part of continual improvement and management review.
The project Conditions of Approval include the following reporting requirements:
Incident Reporting The Applicant shall: (a) immediately notify the Secretary and any other relevant agencies of any incident that has caused, or threatens to cause, material harm to the environment; (b) notify the Secretary and any other relevant agencies as soon as practicable after the Applicant becomes aware of the incident for any other incident associated with the development; and (c) within 7 days of the date of the incident, provide the Secretary and any relevant agencies with a detailed report on the incident, and such further reports as may be requested.
If an environmental incident occurs that requires corrective actions to be incorporated in the EMS. Any revised Strategy or Plans (such as this ERP) must be submitted to the Department of Planning and Environment Secretary within 1 month of submission of an incident report to the Secretary Emergency Contact and Response Times Consider response times and if necessary call 000 early. Response times for various emergency services are: Agency Capabilities Response time to Contact Details site compound RFS – Glen Innes Grassfire/ bushfire, structural fire, road 30 minutes 000 accident rescue, trench rescue, hazardous Office- 02 6732 substance 7046 RFS– Inverell Grassfire/ bushfire, structural fire, road 45 minutes. 000 accident rescue Office- 02 6732 7046 SES – Glen Innes Flood and storm 30minutes 132 500 Ambulance – Glen Innes Medical Assist, Emergency, Hospital 20 minutes 000 Westpac Lifesaver Urgent transportation to hospital Minimum 40 000 Helicopter Service minutes (Tamworth Airport)
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Police – Glen Innes Incident coordination 30 minutes 000 Office- 02 6732 9799 Table 9: Response times for Emergency Services Note: Do not ask for a particular local service to respond, as ‘000’ operators are trained to dispatch only what you request. Let ‘000’ operators determine the closest and appropriate service to respond to any incident.
OTHER SERVICES AGENCY CAPABILITIES CONTACT DETAILS Bureau of Meteorology Weather www.bom.gov.au Glen Innes Severn Council General enquiries 02 6730 2350 Inverell Shire Council General enquiries 02 6728 8288 Roads and Maritime Services Road transport information 132 213 Safework NSW WHS information and investigation 13 10 50 Environmental Protection Environmental information and investigation 13 15 55 Authority (EPA) Poisons Information Line Advice on potential poison/bite/sting incidents 13 11 26 TransGrid Electrical matters (transmission) 1800 027 253 Jemena Natural Gas matters 1800 620 492
12 Emergency Conditions:
The following foreseeable emergency conditions have been provided for within the response plan: A. Injury to a Person B. Vehicle Incidents (on and off site) C. Onsite Bush or Grass Fire D. Offsite Bush or Grass Fire E. Building, Equipment or Machinery Fire F. Spill or Release of Substance G. Severe Weather Event (Storm, High Wind, Lightning, Heavy Rain, Hail, Snow)
The following response procedures (Actions) and things to consider (Stop Think Act!) are described in the following pages. These pages are designed to be printed and laminated thus creating quick reference cards.
A copy of each set of cards is to be: • Stored in the site Manifest box; • Located in each site vehicle; and Stored in the construction office.
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a. Injury to a Person Actions Stop, Think Act! By Person Finding Injured Person (First Responder) • Do not risk your own safety 1. Direct other workers to cease work if: • Do not move injured persons where movement may worsen a patients’ a. If they may be affected by a hazard; condition. b. If they are required to assist in an emergency; or • ‘000’ operators will advise you if it is safe to move a casualty and c. If they will become unsupervised in their work. quicker for you to meet an ambulance on route. 2. Persons trained in first aid are to follow first aid procedure (this may include calling • Consider the isolation of services (power and water) to prevent further 000 – consider response times and call 000 early). injury. Discuss options with HSEQ representative or a ‘000’ operator. 3. If necessary, contact any other site persons via UHF Radio or by mobile phone for • Early tasking of persons to open gates, may reduce your resources at assistance. For further advice, contact: the scene. Consult ‘000’ operators for an appropriate time to task other a. Site Manager or persons to open gates.
b. Site HSEQ Representative • Persons are to wear suitable PPE when cleaning up after an incident
4. Ensure that the injured person receives suitable first aid treatment (contract cleaners may be authorised by the Site Manager, depending
5. Contact Site Manager and advise of what has occurred on the nature of the incident). 6. Provide periodic situation reports to Site Manager or nominated delegate. The Site • Incident investigation considerations: Construction Manager will determine frequency of updates depending on the o Notifiable incidents to Safework NSW will require a formal incident severity. investigation to be undertaken. All notification to Safework NSW 7. Commence incident report and associated investigation. will be undertaken by the Corporate HSEQ Manager in 8. Complete an incident report by the end of the shift of the incident and forward to consultation with the Site Construction Manager. Where the Site Manager or nominated delegate. relevant notification cannot be delivered by the Corporate HSEQ 9. Update incident report as investigation information becomes apparent. (Finalise Manager, an escalation protocol shall be adopted and the Site within a maximum of 72 hrs) Manager shall liaise with the HSEQ representative regarding
preservation of the incident scene. Ensure to bag and/or tag any
personal items.
By Site HSEQ Representative: 1. If notifiable incident immediately report incident to the corporate HSEQ Manager who will notify Safework NSW 13 10 50 and complete a Work Cover NSW Incident
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Report as per the requirements. Also need to determine whether environmental reporting of incident to relevant authorities is required. 2. Notify Senior Management Team (regardless of injury severity per escalation protocols) 3. Lead the GWA Incident investigation up to Level 3 4. Periodically provide situation reports to the Corporate HSEQ Manager and the Site Construction Manager 5. Follow up incident investigation with route cause analysis and recommendations and verify finalisation of investigation reports
By Site Construction Manager: • Where necessary, organise for witness statements to be collected 1. Contact the Goldwind Corporate HSEQ Manager and provide a situation report as from all persons involved using the GWA-HSE-FRM-0020 Incident required, particularly if there is an escalation and the HSEQ representative is not Investigation Statement • Refer person suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder to the able to update. Employee Assistance Program for further counselling. 2. Where necessary, confirm that the Site HSEQ representative has spoken with the Corporate HSEQ Manager regarding the notification to Safe work NSW has occurred and a formal response to clear the scene has been given. Cooperate with Safework NSW during any site visitation and inspections. All information required by the Regulator including the provision of evidence (records) shall be advised formally to the Corporate HSEQ Manager prior to hand over at site. Actions if a roll call is required Stop, Think Act! By Person Conducting Roll Call: • Do not attempt to search for unaccounted persons in dangerous 1. Conduct roll call to confirm which persons are in attendance using the sign in situations. register and any JSEA in use; • Attempt to make contact to missing persons by UHF radio or mobile 2. Attempt to contact any missing persons via mobile phone (or UHF radio) to confirm phone and that they are safe and obtain information, as to where they are located. If safe to do so, they are to report to the muster location, unless they have been dispatched • Advise Emergency Services of the last known location of any to assist or if unsafe to do so. unaccounted individuals or work crews on the project 3. Advise all persons to remain at muster location; and 4. Advise emergency services and the Site Manager that a roll call has been conducted and provide details of any persons who are not accounted for.
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Actions Stop, Think Act! By Person Finding Injured Person: • Do not risk your own safety 1. Call ‘000’ to initiate emergency services – if not required they can easily be turned down on route. • Treat all fallen power lines as being live (where 2. Find a safe place to park preferably up hill from the incident where practical and up wind in case applicable) of a fire (protection against leaking fuel) • Do not move injured persons where movement may 3. Turn on flashing lights and/or hazard lights (Minimise ignition source exposure) worsen their condition. 4. Ensure it is safe to approach the vehicle (check for fallen power lines) • Address casualties who are not talking, screaming etc. 5. Approach the vehicle and make contact with any occupants by: (remember noise can be good!). a. Asking the persons to not move their head to prevent risk of further neck injury • Do not touch personal belongings. b. Ask how many persons were traveling in the vehicle (locate all persons) • Remain with persons where trapped in a vehicle c. If unable to determine how many passengers in the vehicle check all parts of the vehicle • Persons exiting the vehicle, should be moved to a safe and conduct a wider search of the incident area for disorientated or injured individuals location (away from the incident and away from other 6. Whilst making contact and where safe to do so, isolate engine (remove keys or use truck isolator) traffic) 7. If no immediate threat to injured occupants try and have them remain in the vehicle (refer to • Only attempt to remove trapped persons if: Stop, Think, Act) to restrict the management of the incident scene in the immediate vicinity o Left in their current location the chance of survival 8. Provide first aid where practical based on the level of training and competency of the responder deteriorates due worsening injuries; or 9. Protect persons against shock where it is safe to do so and NEVER place yourself at risk o If a fire starts which cannot easily be extinguished 10. Be aware and on the lookout for leaking fuel that may become an issue if combined with an • Place vehicle keys with the emergency services ignition source • Maintain injured person’s privacy/dignity at all times 11. If necessary, contact any other site workers via UHF radio or by mobile phone for assistance. For • 000 operators will advise you if it is safe to move a further advice, contact: casualty and quicker for you to meet an ambulance on a. Site Construction Manager or route. b. Site HSEQ Supervisor 12. Keep passengers talking and conscious where practical to determine their condition 13. Handover to emergency services on arrival to the scene 14. Contact Site Manager / Site HSEQ Supervisor and advise of what has occurred 15. Provide periodic situation reports to the Site Construction Manager or if not available the Site HSEQ Supervisor. Site Manager/ HSEQ Supervisor will determine frequency of updates depending on the incident severity. 16. Provide witness report to the Police as required.
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17. Complete incident report within twenty-four (24) hours of the incident and forward to Site Construction Manager and Site HSEQ Supervisor. 18. Update incident report as investigation information becomes apparent. By Site HSEQ Supervisor: 1. If incident on-site, then report incident to Safework NSW 13 10 50 and complete a Safework NSW Incident Report after the notification number is provided 2. Notify Corporate HSEQ Manager of the incident who will in-turn notify the applicable Senior Management Team (regardless of injury severity) 3. Assist in the GWA Incident investigation 4. Periodically provide situation reports to the Corporate HSEQ Manager By Site Manager (Construction or Operations Manager, depending on project phase): • If necessary organise for witness statements to be 1. If incident on-site, then contact customer and advise of what has occurred; and collected from all persons involved using the GWA-HSE- 2. Contact Site HSEQ Supervisor and the Corporate HSEQ Manager periodically or as directed who FRM-0020 Incident Investigation Statement • Refer person suffering from post-traumatic stress in turn will notify and update Senior Management Team. disorder to the company EAP provider. 3. If incident on-site, then where necessary, coordinate with Site HSEQ Supervisor to notify Safework NSW. 4. If incident on-site, then work with Safework NSW during the investigation after securing the immediate vicinity of the incident scene.
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Actions Stop, Think Act! By Person Identifying this fire: • Do not risk your own safety. The order of priority is: 1. Where practical, raise the alarm with the Site Manager o Preservation of Life – your life and the life of others (not animals/livestock) 2. If safe to do so, and practical use immediate resources to o Protection of Property – company vehicles, wind turbines and other extinguish/contain the fire equipment 3. If unsafe or unable to extinguish the fire, call 000 and raise the alarm o Environment – protection of the environment always 4. If unable to extinguish the fire, then evacuate to a safe location (refer to • Priority should be given to raising the alarm at the earliest opportunity and Stop Think Act!) and direct other workers in the immediate area to cease include all types of emergency services that may be required initially. work and report to the site muster point: • Bush or grass fires can move extremely quickly. As such, all persons must remain 5. Site supervisor to conduct a roll call and ensure all persons are accounted at a safe distance from the fire and remain up wind and not in the fires path. for (see below action box) • Always attack a fire with a pre-planned exit route established Do not re-enter a fire area to search for missing persons. • Consider wind speed and direction of fire travel when planning your exit route 6. If safe to do so, open all gates to facilitate any further evacuations and to for the grass/bush fire along with the potential for a change in wind direction aid the swift movement of emergency service vehicles • In the event of intense heat or smoke, retreat to suitable location or a light 7. If first aid trained provide treatment to any injured persons or arrange for vehicle a trained first aid officer to attend to potentially injured workers. Note this • Consider the isolation of services (power, such as the portable generator) to may require evacuating to the muster point to render first aid at a safe prevent further injury. location • Early tasking of persons to open gates may reduce your resources at the scene. 8. If necessary, call 000 if any person is injured so that an ambulance can be Consult 000 operators for an appropriate time to task other persons. despatched • Incident investigation considerations: 9. If fire is near solar farm infrastructure and it is safe to do so OR if directed o Notifiable incidents to Safework NSW may require a formal investigation. by emergency services, disconnect site services and isolate the solar farm Seek advice from the Corporate HSEQ Manager in consultation with the PCBs. Site Construction Manager and or Site HSEQ Supervisor before 10. For further advice, contact: altering/contaminating an incident scene. a. Site Construction Manager or b. Site HSEQ Supervisor 11. Contact Site Construction Manager and advise of what has occurred 12. Provide periodic situation reports (first responders) to Site Manager and Site HSEQ Supervisor. Site Manager will determine frequency of updates depending on the incident severity.
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13. When directed by emergency services of the all clear (safe to re-enter site), commence the incident investigation. 14. Complete incident report within twenty-four (24) hours of the incident and forward to Site Manager and Site HSEQ Supervisor. 15. Update incident report as investigation information becomes apparent.
By Site HSEQ Supervisor: 6. Also need to determine whether environmental reporting of incident to relevant 1. If notifiable incident immediately report incident to Safework NSW 13 10 authorities is required. 50 and complete a Safework NSW Incident Report where required. Determine need for other formal environmental incident notifications (e.g. EPA, DPE) 2. Site Construction Manager to notify the Corporate HSEQ Manager who in turn will notify the Senior Management Team (regardless of injury severity) 3. Assist in the GWA Incident investigation 4. Periodically provide situation reports to the Site Construction Manager 5. Follow up incident investigation with route cause analysis and recommendations
By Site Construction Manager: • Where necessary organise for witness statements to be collected from all persons 1. Contact customer’s representative and advise of what has occurred; and involved using the GWA-HSE-FRM-0020 Incident Investigation Statement 2. Contact Project Manager and provide a situation report. 3. If necessary, coordinate with Site HSEQ Supervisor to notify Safework NSW direct where the Corporate HSEQ Manager is uncontactable. 4. Work with Safework NSW during the investigation.
Actions if a roll call is required Stop, Think Act! By Person Conducting Roll Call: • Do not attempt to search for unaccounted persons in dangerous situations. 1. First Responder to conduct roll call to confirm which persons are in • Attempt to make contact to missing persons by UHF radio or mobile phone and attendance using the sign in register and any JSEA being used. • Advise Emergency Services of their last known location and possible time of their 2. Attempt to contact any missing persons via mobile phone (where practical or there is a clear signal) to confirm that they are safe and obtain last contact information as to where they are located. If safe to do so, they are to report to muster location unless they have been dispatched to assist or if unsafe to do so.
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3. Advise all persons to remain at muster location. 4. Advise emergency services and Site Construction Manager that a roll call has been conducted and provide details of any persons who are not accounted for at the time.
d. Offsite Bush or Grass Fire
Actions Stop, Think Act! By Person Finding Bush or Grass Fire: (First responder) • Do not risk your own safety. The order of priority is: 1. Call 000 and notify emergency services of the fire and location o Preservation of Life – your life and the life of others (not 2. Raise the alarm on UHF radio or by mobile phone by contacting the Site Construction animals/livestock) Manager and advise of incident and immediate action taken; o Protect Property – company vehicles, solar panels, inverters and 3. Relocate to a safe location and await the emergency services. transformers and other equipment o Environment – protection of the environment always • Bush or grass fires can move extremely quickly. As such, all persons must remain at a safe distance from the fire and remain up wind and not in the fires path. • Consider wind speed and direction of fire travel when planning your exit route for the grass/bush fire • It unsafe to return to relocate, consider staying on already burnt ground up wind • In the event of intense heat or smoke retreat to a structure or vehicle
By Site Construction Manager: 1. If necessary contact Emergency Services, call 000; 2. If the fire does not pose an immediate risk to the Solar Farm, regular contact is to be maintained with local Fire Services. Local landowners and nearby neighbours to monitor fire and risk; and 3. If the fire presents a risk to the Solar Farm, the Onsite Bush or Grass Fire process is to be followed. By Site HSEQ Supervisor: 1. Notify Corporate HSEQ Manager who in turn will notify the Senior Management Team (regardless of injury severity)
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2. Periodically provide situation reports to the Site Manager and the Corporate HSEQ Manager where escalation is mandated By Site Construction Manager: • If necessary organise for witness statements to be collected from all persons 1. Contact Project Manager &who in turn will notify the customer and advise of what involved using the GWA-HSE-FRM-0020 Incident Investigation Statement has occurred
e. Building, Equipment or Machinery Fire
Actions Stop, Think Act! By Person Finding this fire: (First Responder) • Do not risk your own safety. The order of priority is: 1. Stop plant and equipment if running or where it is safe to do so, disconnect building o Preservation of Life – your life and the life of others, services via the portable generator (power and gas) o Protection of Property – company vehicles solar panels, 2. Where practical, raise the alarm with the Site Construction Manager and call 000 to inverters and transformers and other equipment mobilise emergency services – if not required they can easily be turned down on route. o Environment – protection of the environment always 3. If safe to do so, use immediate resources to extinguish the fire (Refer to Stop, Think Act!) • Priority should be given to raising the alarm. 4. If unsafe or unable to extinguish the fire, notify the Site Construction Manager by UHF • Do not move equipment where there may be a chance of radio or mobile phone, or if Site Construction Manager unavailable call 000 and notify the explosion Site HSE Supervisor • Do not move liquids which are on fire 5. If safe to do so, reduce the spread of fire by moving plant and equipment away from other • Do not extinguish oil fires with water, use CO2 extinguishers or buildings/equipment into an open area (Refer to Stop, Think Act!) smother with a damp covering 6. If unable to extinguish the fire, then evacuate to a safe location and direct other workers • Shut doors behind you to reduce the spread of fire in a building in the immediate area to cease work and report to the site muster point: after completing a sweep of the area for injured workers that 7. First responder to conduct a roll call and ensure all persons are accounted for (see below are unable to clear the area action box) • Always attack a fire with a pre-planned exit route established Do not re-enter a fire area to search for missing persons. • If you become disorientated in smoke drop to the ground and 8. If safe to do so, open all gates to facilitate any further evacuations and to aid the swift locate the nearest exit movement of emergency service vehicles • Early tasking of persons to open gates may reduce your 9. If first aid trained, provide treatment to any injured persons or ensure that a suitably resources at the scene. Consult 000 operators for an trained first aid officer is in attendance to render any required first aid. appropriate time to task other persons. 10. If necessary, call 000 if any person is injured so that an ambulance can be despatched • 11. If directed by emergency services, disconnect site services (HV/LV) – refer to Section 6. Incident investigation Considerations: 12. For further advice, contact:
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a. Site Construction Manager or o Notifiable incidents to Safework NSW may require a b. Site HSEQ Supervisor formal investigation. Seek advice from the Site 13. Contact Site Construction Manager and advise of what has occurred Construction Manager and Site HSEQ Supervisor 14. The first responder is to provide periodic situation reports to the Site Construction before altering/contaminating an incident scene. Manager or in the absence of the Site Construction Manager, the Site HSEQ Supervisor. Site Construction Manager / Site HSEQ Supervisor will determine frequency of updates depending on the incident severity. 15. Provide a handover to the emergency services and update them on the situation prior to their arrival on site 16. When directed by emergency services of the ‘all-clear’ (safe to re-enter site), commence the incident report and associated investigation. 17. Complete incident report within twenty-four (24) hours of the incident and forward to Site Construction Manager and Site HSEQ Supervisor. 18. Update incident report as investigation information becomes apparent. By Site HSEQ Supervisor: 1. If notifiable incident immediately report incident to Safework NSW 13 10 50 and complete a Safework NSW Incident Report. Determine need for other formal environmental incident notifications (e.g. EPA, DPE) 2. Notify Site Manager (regardless of injury severity) 3. Assist in the GWA Incident investigation 4. Periodically provide situation reports to the Site Manager 5. Follow up incident investigation with route cause analysis and recommendations
By Site Manager: • If necessary organise for witness statements to be collected from all 1. Contact Project Manager & customer and advise of what has occurred; and persons involved using the GWA-HSE-FRM-0020 Incident 2. Contact Corporate HSEQ Manager who in turn will notify the respective members of the Investigation Statement the Senior Management Team and provide a final situation report. • Refer person suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder to the 3. Where required, coordinate with Corporate HSEQ Manager to notify Safework NSW. EAP. 4. Work with Safework NSW during the investigation and advise Corporate HSEQ Manager of outcome.
Actions if a roll call is required Stop, Think Act! By Person Conducting Roll Call: First Responder • Do not attempt to search for unaccounted persons in dangerous situations.
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1. Conduct a roll call to confirm which persons are in attendance using the sign in register • Attempt to make contact to missing persons by UHF radio or mobile and any JSEA being used. phone and
2. Attempt to contact any missing persons via mobile phone to confirm that they are safe • Advise Emergency Services of the last known location and time of and obtain information as to where they are located. If safe to do so, they are to report communication with the unaccounted individuals to muster location unless they have been dispatched to assist or if unsafe to do so. 3. Advise all persons to remain at muster location. 4. Advise emergency services and Site Construction Manager/ that a roll call has been conducted and provide details of any persons who are not accounted for.
f. Spill or Release of Substance
Actions Stop, Think Act! By Person discovering the Release of Substance: • Remain upwind on high ground, and consider potential of an explosion, 1. AVOID CONTACT WITH SPILLED OR RELEASED SUBSTANCE; fire or inhalation of toxic substance. 2. Take action to control spill or any released substances but only where safe to do • Immediately look at the container and SDS to determine spill response so (refer to SDS or information on the container where possible); • Incident investigation considerations: If necessary, move to a safe location and direct other workers to cease work if: o Notifiable incidents to NSW EPA may require a formal a. If the substance may pose a hazard to others; investigation. Seek advice from the Site Construction Manager b. If they are required to assist in containment or clean up; or and Site HSEQ Supervisor before altering/contaminating an c. If they will become unsupervised in their work. incident scene. 3. For further advice, contact: a. Site Construction Manager or b. Site HSEQ Supervisor c. Company on product labels/information sheets/SDS 4. If unsafe to contain substance call 000 5. Contact Site Construction Manager and advise of what has occurred including quantity of spill 6. Provide periodic situation reports to Site Manager and Site HSEQ Supervisor. Site Manager will determine frequency of updates depending on the incident severity. 7. Commence incident reporting and associated investigation.
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8. Complete incident report within 24 hours of the incident and forward to Site Manager and Site HSEQ Supervisor. 9. Update incident report as investigation information becomes apparent.
By Site HSEQ Supervisor: Provide information/advice to Site Manager, Section Manager relating to 1. If notifiable incident immediately report incident to Safework NSW 13 10 50 and substance a UN number or an SDS. Note the SDS for the chemicals are attached complete a Safework NSW Incident Report where required to the respective SWMS at the point of use 2. Notify Site Manager (regardless of injury severity) 3. Assist in the GWA Incident investigation 4. Periodically provide situation reports to the Site Construction Manager Follow up incident investigation with route cause analysis and recommendations By Site Construction Manager: • If necessary organise for witness statements to be collected from all 1. Contact Corporate HSEQ Manager with the incident report and advise of what has persons involved using the GWA-HSE-FRM-0020 Incident Investigation occurred. Statement •
Actions if a roll call is required Stop, Think Act! By Person Conducting Roll Call: • Do not attempt to search for unaccounted persons in dangerous 1. Conduct roll call to confirm which persons are in attendance using the sign in situations. register and any JSEA is used. • Attempt to make contact to missing persons by UHF radio or mobile 2. Attempt to contact any missing persons via mobile phone to confirm that they phone and are safe and obtain information as to where they are located. If safe to do so, they are to report to muster location unless they have been dispatched to assist • Advise Emergency Services of the last known location or if unsafe to do so. 3. Advise all persons to remain at muster location. 4. Advise emergency services and Site / that a roll call has been conducted and provide details of any persons who are not accounted for.
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g. Severe Weather Event- Lightning, Heavy Rain, High Winds
Actions Stop, Think Act! By Person Finding the Weather Event: First Responder • Do not risk your own safety. The order of priority is: 1. If possible, raise the alarm with the Site Manager o Preservation of Life – your life and the life of others (not animals/livestock) 2. Relocate all personnel to site office and crib rooms until storm passes o Protect Property – company vehicles, Solar Panels, Inverters and other 3. Conduct a roll call and ensure all persons are accounted for. Ensure all persons equipment report to the muster point and conduct a roll call o 4. If necessary, contact any other site persons via UHF radio or by mobile phone Environment – protection of the environment for assistance. For further advice, contact: • Priority should be given to raising the alarm. a. Site Manager or • Consider the isolation of services (power) to prevent further injury. b. Site HSEQ Supervisor • Early tasking of persons to open gates may reduce your resources at the scene. 6. Contact Site Manager and advise of what has occurred Consult 000 operators for an appropriate time to task other persons. 7. Provide periodic situation reports to Site Manager and Site HSEQ Supervisor. Site Construction Manager will determine frequency of updates depending on the incident severity and determine if suspension of works on site is warranted.
Actions if a roll call is required Stop, Think Act! By Person Conducting Roll Call: • Do not attempt to search for unaccounted persons in dangerous situations. 1. Conduct roll call to confirm which persons are in attendance using the sign in • Attempt to make contact to missing persons by 2-way radio or mobile phone and register and any JSEA being used. • Advise Emergency Services of the last known location 2. Attempt to contact any missing persons via mobile phone to confirm that they are safe and obtain information as to where they are located. If safe to do so, they are to report to muster location unless they have been dispatched to assist or if unsafe to do so. 3. Advise all persons to remain at muster location. 4. Advise Site Manager/ that a roll call has been conducted and provide details of any persons who are not accounted for.
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Appendix J GWA Policy Statement on Handling Enquiries and Complaints
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Goldwind Australia
CO-POL-0007 Complaints and Enquiries Policy
Document Version History
Version Date Reason for Issue Author Checked Approved
0.1 26 October Draft to Management Team for Review C. Powell J. Ning Chen, 2015 Simmonds Will Ives, Rob Brady, Steve Nethery, John Gardner
1.0 24 Draft to John Titchen for review and approval. C.Powell John December Incorporates comments from Management Team review. Titchen 2015
CO-POL-0007 Complaints and Enquiries Policy V1.0 Effective Date: 12 February 2016 Page 1 of 4 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED.
CO-POL-0007 Complaints and Enquiries Policy
1. Introduction This Policy document describes the Goldwind Australia Pty Ltd.’s (GWA) commitment to effective management of enquiries from interested parties and handling of complaints related to Goldwind Australia projects.
2. Scope and Coverage The Policy applies to a project while GWA is engaged on the project as Construction Manager, Asset Manager or other relevant role. Typically this policy will apply for the lifetime of the project including construction and operation, or as otherwise agreed with the relevant Planning Authority. The Policy is applicable to all employees and workers involved in the GWA project. The Policy forms an integral part of the GWA Integrated Management System. A Project Enquiries and Complaints Plan specific to each project shall be developed for each GWA project, in accordance with the relevant Planning Approval requirements and the Stakeholder and Community Engagement Plan (or other relevant strategic document).
2. Policy Statement It is GWA policy to establish and maintain a positive complaint management environment that encourages feedback, enquiries and complaints. It is also the policy of GWA to comply with relevant legislative and regulatory requirements in relation to complaints and enquiries and, where required, granted Project Approvals. It is our policy to acknowledge the needs and expectations of all interested parties affected by the project and to resolve complaints at the first point of contact with the organization wherever possible. The company is strongly committed to addressing issues of concern within reasonably requested and agreed timeframe.
3. Policy Objectives The aim of this Policy is to: Facilitate the delivery of quality products and services and continually improve our operations with the aim of achieving zero at fault complaints. Comply with any statutory or regulatory requirements. Maintain a framework that provides constructive open communication channels that encourages feedback, enquiries and complaints from all interested parties and community at large.
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4. Responsibilities and Accountabilities
The GWA Managing Director is ultimately accountable for effective Enquiries and Compliant Management System.
The Investment Department Manager is responsible for ensuring that the enquiries and complaint management policy and associated Project Plan is established, implemented and maintained. Further responsibility includes the provision of adequate resources and promotion of awareness of the policy and Project Plan including development of interested parties and community’s focus-based culture within GWA. The Community Engagement Manager shall be responsible for managing enquiries and complaints, thus ensuring the overall management system is effective at all times. Further responsibility includes ensuring the up to date Policy is readily available to the general public. The Community Engagement Manager, reporting to the Investment Department Manager shall be responsible for establishing, implementing and maintaining a process of performance monitoring, evaluation and reporting. Further responsibility includes implementing internal and external escalation procedures for unresolved complaints and disputes. All workers interacting with Stakeholders and members of the public on a specific project shall be responsible for implementing the Policy and associated procedures as per the project specific Plan. GWA recognizes that all Stakeholders have the right to express their opinions or dissatisfaction. All workers have a responsibility to treat complaints in a courteous and equitable manner. In accordance with AS/NZ Standard 1002:2014 Guidelines for Complaint Management in Organizations, in the event of complainant acts being deemed unreasonable, key principles for unacceptable complaint conduct shall include, but not be limited to, instituting alternative service arrangements, restrict service or terminate service altogether.
5. Evaluation As an integral part of our Integrated Management System, auditing of compliance against the AS/NZS 10002:2014 Standard - Guidelines for Complaint Management in Organizations, shall be included in the GWA annual audit program and incorporated in Management Reviews. Regular Management Reviews will confirm overall effectiveness of the management system. During Management Reviews, the GWA senior management shall evaluate feedback and complaints for trends and specific community concerns including statutory and regulatory issues. Key Performance Indicators (KPI) shall be monitored to ensure that GWA management system is both responsive to the needs of interested parties and community at large and effective in delivering satisfactory resolutions to enquiries and complaints.
6. Non-compliance with Policy
Any non-compliance with this Policy shall be escalated and reported to the Managing Director of GWA who shall instigate conducting of root cause analysis, development and implementation of appropriate corrective action. Deviations from this Policy may be subject to review and necessary disciplinary action during regular Management Review meetings.
Signature:
John Titchen Managing Director
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Effective Date: 12th February2016
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White Rock Solar Farm – SSD Effective Date: 22/01/2018 Doc No. 7487 Environmental Version 6.0 Management Strategy Review Date: 22/01/2018
Appendix K Procedure for Handling Enquiries and Complaints
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White Rock Solar Farm
White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and
Complaints Handling Plan Prepared by:
Goldwind Australia Pty. Ltd. Suite 2, Level 23 – 201 Elizabeth Street, Sydney NSW 2000
WR-PM-PLN-0016 20/03/17 V1.0 Revision Details
Document Information Information WR-PM-PLN-0016 White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaints Document Number and Name Handling Plan Document Owner Sunny Rutherford
Version: 1.0
Issue Date 20/03/17
Document Release This document will comply with GWA Document Management Procedure and will therefore be assigned with a registered document number. Issued copies of this document shall be labelled with a registered document number and identified as major version 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 etc. indicating an approved document, where the first
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White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan issue will start at version 1.0. Document reviews where procedural content has not changes and only minor modification have been made, will display 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 etc. All controlled published documents are stored in the GWA SharePoint site. All copies of this document shall be distributed to persons listed within the Distribution List. Upon receipt of a new version, the relevant copy holder shall discard the superseded copy and adopt the new version.
Document History Issue Version Changes Date 0.1 04/01/2017 Draft 1.0 20/03/17 Final version
Document Approval Role Name Signature Date Checked Authorised
Distribution A controlled version of this document will be stored on SharePoint.
COPYRIGHT ©: The concepts and information contained in this document are the property of Goldwind Australia Pty Ltd. Use or copying of this document, in whole or in part, without the written permission of Goldwind Australia Pty Ltd, constitutes an infringement of copyright.
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White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan TABLE OF CONTENTS Terms and Definitions ...... 4 1 Introduction ...... 5 2 Scope and Coverage ...... 5 3 Purpose and Intended Outcomes ...... 5 4 Process Flow Diagram ...... 5 5 Enabling Lodgement of Enquiries and Complaints...... 7 5.1 Principles ...... 7 5.2 Avenues for Public Contact ...... 7 5.3 Advertising of contact details ...... 7 5.4 Accessibility ...... 8 5.5 Training ...... 8 6 Managing Enquiries and Complaints ...... 8 6.1 General Principles ...... 8 6.2 Enquiries and Complaints Register ...... 8 6.3 Process for Receiving and Resolving Enquiries...... 9 6.4 Process for Receiving Complaints ...... 9 6.5 Assessment and Investigation of Complaints ...... 10 6.6 Resolution of Complaint, Follow Up and Closing Complaints ...... 10 6.7 Management of unreasonable situations ...... 10 6.8 Recording information in the stakeholder data management system ...... 11 7 Coordinating and Managing the Parties ...... 11 7.1 General protocols ...... 11 8 Accountability, Prevention of Ongoing Disputes and Continual Improvement...... 11 8.1 General Principles ...... 11 8.2 Internal Escalation Options ...... 11 8.3 Dispute Resolution ...... 12 8.4 Reporting ...... 12 8.5 Continual Improvement ...... 12 Appendix A ...... 14
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White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan Terms and Definitions
Term Definition WRSF White Rock Solar Farm Pty Ltd and associated solar farm project. WRWF White Rock Wind Farm Pty Ltd and associated wind farm project. Community Interested members of the general public, community members, community groups, near neighbours and host landowners. Excludes staff members of WRSF, WRWF and Goldwind Australia. Complainant Person, organisation or their representative (including clients, consumers, service users, customers etc.) making a complaint. Complaint Expression of dissatisfaction made to or about GWA and / or WRSF, related to its products, services, staff or the handling of a complaint, where a response or resolution is explicitly or implicitly expected or legally required. Complaint and Encompasses all aspects of the policies, procedures, practices, staff, hardware and software Enquiry Management used by an organisation for the management of complaints. System Disputes Unresolved complaints escalated internally or externally, or both. Enquiry or Feedback Opinions, comments and expressions of interest or concern, made directly or indirectly, explicitly or implicitly to or about GWA, its projects, the WRSF project, its products, services, staff, contractors and or their handling of complaints. NOTE: Where appropriate, clarification can be sought from the representative on whether feedback is intended to be handled as a complaint. Unreasonable Unreasonable behaviour by a complainant may be behaviour, which by its nature or behaviour frequency, raises health, safety, resource or equity issues for GWA, its staff, other service users and complainants, or the complainants themselves. Examples include unreasonable persistence, demands, lack of cooperation, arguments or behaviour.
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White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan 1 Introduction
This document describes Goldwind Australia’s (GWA) process for effective management of enquiries and complaints lodged by interested parties in relation to White Rock Solar Farm (WRSF). This document should be reference in line with the GWA Handling Enquiries and Complaints Policy. The specific conditions outlined in Schedule 4 of the Development Consent for White Rock Solar Farm require a procedure to receive, handle, respond to and record complaints. This WRSF Enquiries and Complaints Handling Plan, alongside the Goldwind Australia Complaints and Enquiries Policy fully meet the intent and expectations of the Development Consent. The Enquiries and Complaints Management System has been designed and established in accordance with the Australian Standard AS 4269:1995 Complaints Handling, superseded and updated by AS/NZS 10002:2014 – Guidelines for Complaint Management in Organisations. Consistent with the GWA Handling Enquiries and Complaints Policy all staff and contractors involved with the Project are obligated to properly handle enquiries and complaints to enhance GWA reputation, professionalism and citizenship. This document will be made publically available on the WRSF Project website and at the site office.
2 Scope and Coverage
This Plan is applicable to all persons and interested parties associated with the WRSF while GWA is engaged on the project as Construction Manager, Asset Manager or other relevant role. The Plan covers processes for dealing with all enquiries and complaints from stakeholders in relation to the project. It is the intent that the systems outlined in this Plan will be maintained for the life of the project, to the degree deemed necessary and in accordance with expectations and needs of all interested parties.
3 Purpose and Intended Outcomes
The purpose of the Plan is to provide a system and process for the management of all enquiries and complaints in relation to the project. All complaints will be addressed in accordance with the Enquiries and Complaints Management System. This Plan supports the GWA Handling Enquiries and Complaints Policy and is based on guiding principles set out in AS/NZ 10002:2014 Standard and summarised by: • enabling lodgement of enquiries and complaints (section 5) • managing enquiries and complaints (section 6) • coordinating and managing the parties (section 7), and • accountability, prevention of ongoing disputes and continuous improvement (section 8).
4 Process Flow Diagram
A diagram outlining the process for handling enquiries and complaints is provided overleaf.
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White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan
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White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan 5 Enabling Lodgement of Enquiries and Complaints
5.1 Principles In supporting the lodgement of enquiries and complaints, this Plan will be based on the following principles: • people focused – GWA recognises everyone has a right to complain and complainants should be treated with respect • GWA will aim to ensure no detriment to the complainant occurs because of a complaint made • GWA will aim for visibility and transparency of how and where a complaint can be made, and • GWA will aim to ensure accessibility of the Enquiries and Complaint Management System.
5.2 Avenues for Public Contact GWA will aim to ensure visibility and transparency of the Complaints and Enquiries Management System including information about how and where a complaint may be made. The following avenues are provided for community enquiries and complaints during entire life of the WRSF project:
Method Process WRWF Shopfront – 303C Grey Street, Glen Innes 2370. In person By arrangement at the Site Office, Operations & Maintenance Facility, head office or other appropriate location. Telephone 1800 074 115 (24 hours)
Email [email protected] White Rock Solar Farm Post Level 23, 201 Elizabeth Street Sydney NSW 2000
www.whiterocksolarfarm.com The website provides: Project website A feedback contact form for enquiries/complaints, and Details of other forms of contact (email, post and phone).
5.3 Advertising of contact details The telephone number, website, postal and email addresses will be published prior to the commencement of construction and prior to the commencement of operations. Advertisements / contact details will be placed as follows: • local newspapers • Glen Innes Severn and Inverell Shire Council offices • visible signage at the main entrance to the project from the public road, and • project website. The timing of newspaper advertisements will be as follows: • at least one month prior to the start of construction • every six months during construction, and • annually during operations. WR-PM-PLN-0016 White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaints Handling Plan V1.0 Effective Date: 20/03/2017 Page 7 of 14 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED.
White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan
5.4 Accessibility GWA will aim to ensure the Enquiries and Complaints Management System is accessible to everyone and will provide support to people to make an enquiry or complaint as required. Under no circumstances will GWA charge a fee or levy for receiving and processing enquiries and complaints. Refer to section 5.2 for avenues for making an enquiry or complaint.
5.5 Training All persons likely to receive a complaint shall receive training in: • identifying if extra assistance is required to accurately convey the complaint • how to provide acknowledgment of a complaint • the complaint management process • communicating resolutions and / or mitigation • escalation options, and • reporting requirements.
6 Managing Enquiries and Complaints
6.1 General Principles GWA will aim to manage enquiries and complaints in line with the following general principles: • to acknowledge each complaint and enquiry promptly and as soon as is reasonably practical • to manage each complaint or enquiry in an objective, unbiased and equitable manner • to treat any personally identifiable information in line with relevant privacy laws and ethical obligations, and • to ensure communication of policies, procedures and decisions with relevant complainants and staff. It is important to distinguish at the outset between an enquiry and complaint as there are different paths to resolution and closure. It may be necessary for project staff to seek clarification from the complainant/enquirer in order to determine the correct path to follow. Consistent with GWA Handling Enquiries and Complaints Policy, senior management shall expeditiously address and seek timely resolution of all complaints and claims, directed against the project or any other related matters. Where there are mitigation circumstances and the timescales set out below are not met, such cases shall be analysed in depth and reported to the GWA senior management.
6.2 Enquiries and Complaints Register Prior to commencement of the construction, the Enquiries and Complaints Register will be established and managed by the Community Engagement Manager. The Enquiries and Complaints Register will provide a structure for the lodgement and management of all information in relation to enquiries and complaints. The Enquiries and Complaints Register will be set up and maintained as a secure stakeholder data management system. This system will be used to capture all enquiries, complaints, feedback and comments. All interactions with stakeholders and all further actions taken as a result of these interactions will be recorded in this system.
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White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan The system enables the generation of a variety of reports for the review, presenting and auditing of complaints/enquiries throughout the life of the project.
6.3 Process for Receiving and Resolving Enquiries The following process for receiving enquiries would be carried out on receipt of an enquiry: 1. The person receiving the enquiry provides details of the enquiry to the Community Engagement Manager. 2. Enquiry is received and all details logged in the stakeholder data management system by the Community Engagement Manager or directly by the staff member who has received the enquiry. 3. The Community Engagement Manager shall aim to acknowledge receipt of the enquiry within three working days, or as soon as reasonably practical. 4. The enquiry will be resolved at first point of contact wherever possible. 5. Depending on the nature of the enquiry, in some cases it may not be possible to respond within this timeframe. In such cases shall be analysed in depth and reported to the GWA senior management in order to minimise the impact on affected parties. 6. In all instances, enquiries should be responded to, and successfully resolved where possible, within five working days. 7. All correspondence will be documented in stakeholder data management system. Resolution of enquiries should aim to provide as much information as possible to the satisfaction of the enquirer.
6.4 Process for Receiving Complaints The following process would be carried out on receipt of a complaint: 1. Complaint is received and all details logged in the stakeholder data management system. 2. Relevant team members shall be notified of the complaint, including but not limited to: a. Community Engagement Manager b. Owners Project Manager c. EPC Project Manager d. Construction Site Manager e. HSEQ Manager (as required) 3. The Community Engagement Manager (or other nominated person relevant to the complaint) shall acknowledge and provide an initial response to the complaint. 4. Initial response timescales for complaints shall be: a. Where complaints are received in person, an acknowledgement and initial response will be provided immediately if possible, or if circumstances do not allow, within 24 hours (or next working day). b. Where complaints are received by telephone or email an acknowledgement and initial response will be provided within 24 hours (or next working day) of the complaint being received. c. Where complaints are received by post, and no email or phone contact is provided, a written response will be made within two working days.
The initial response to an complainant should: • acknowledge the complaint has been received • ask for further information, if necessary resolve, and • explain the process and commit to provide a proposed resolution or an update within five working days. The initial response does not necessarily need to include a resolution to the complaint if it is not available at the time. A template written initial response is provided in Appendix A.
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White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan Complaints should be handled in a manner intended to lead to an effective resolution as quickly as possible.
6.5 Assessment and Investigation of Complaints The Community Engagement Manager and Project Manager (or other nominated person) shall assess whether the complaint is within the project’s scope. They will also assess if more than one issue is raised and if so, whether each issue needs to be separately addressed. Should any issue be deemed outside of the project’s scope, the complainant will be informed as soon as practicable, provided with an explanation as to why it is considered out with the project’s scope and the complaint closed. The Community Engagement Manager may request the Project Manager or delegate to collect further information from the complainant if required. Relevant members of the project team may be asked to further investigate the complaint and seek mitigation or resolution measures. If deemed necessary by the project team, the complaint will be escalated internally to Senior Management for review and resolution. An update on investigations and proposed resolution (if available) will be provided within five working days of receipt to the complainant by the Community Engagement Manager or delegate, or sooner if possible. Further updates will be provided to the complainant as required until the complaint is closed.
6.6 Resolution of Complaint, Follow Up and Closing Complaints Results of investigations and proposed resolution measures will be communicated to the complainant. GWA will work with the complainant to develop a solution to the issue. This may be by telephone or email. The Community Engagement Manager or delegate will prepare a written statement of the complaint resolution and provide it to the complainant. Communication of the resolution should include: • actions were taken in response to the complaint • outcome(s) of the complaint • rationale for any decisions made • proposed resolution • request for feedback from the complainant as whether the information provided has resolved their complaint, and • information on escalation options available to the complainant. A complaint will be considered closed when a complainant advises that they consider the complaint resolved. Alternatively, if no response is received from the complainant within ten working days, the complaint will be considered closed. The outcome of a complaint, any resolutions or undertakings and relevant conversations are to be recorded in the stakeholder data management system. If a complaint is not resolved with 30 working days of receipt, the dispute resolution process defined below shall be used.
6.7 Management of unreasonable situations At times, project staff may receive unreasonable complaints or the behaviour of the complainant may be deemed unreasonable. At all times project staff will deal with each complaint or enquiry in an objective, unbiased and equitable manner. The AS/NZ 10002:2014 Standard provides further guidelines. GWA places priority on Health and Safety and aims to ensure all community members, staff, contractors and complainants are protected from harm during the handling of enquiries and complaints.
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White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan 6.8 Recording information in the stakeholder data management system All correspondence in relation to enquiries and complaints is to be recorded in the stakeholder data management system. Each enquiry received by a stakeholder will be logged in the stakeholder data management system and categorised as appropriate. Each complaint received will be logged in the same manner but as a ‘Complaint’. Recording of complaints should include: • a unique identifier for each complaint • contact information of complainant • issues raised • outcome sought by complainant • any other relevant information, and • any support requirements needed by the complainant.
7 Coordinating and Managing the Parties
7.1 General protocols • Enquiry and complaint information must be kept confidential and not released to third parties without GWA Department Manager authorisation. • The identity of persons dealing with enquiries/complaints should be protected, with regard to releasing minimal information (such as first name) to the complainant. • Personal information relating to complaints must be protected and not shared publicly including but not limited to: o dates of birth o physical or mental health or disability o financials o phone numbers, or o addresses (email and physical). • In the event of multiple parties being involved then representatives from each are to be identified and a suitable communication and consolation mechanism implemented. • Project staff will follow a code of conduct: o Be polite and courteous at all times. o Maintain discretion and confidentiality where required. o Inform the complainant if their behaviour borders on unacceptable behaviour and of the consequences of a breach by the complainant (such as alternative arrangements to handle the complaint, restricting service or terminating service altogether).
8 Accountability, Prevention of Ongoing Disputes and Continual Improvement
8.1 General Principles GWA will aim to manage enquiries and complaints in line with the following general principles: • to ensure that accountability for the operation of its complaint management system is clear, and • to seek to minimise the possibility of complaints escalating into ongoing disputes.
8.2 Internal Escalation Options Should a satisfactory resolution or mitigation not be agreed with the complainant GWA, internal escalation options should be considered. These include:
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White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan • Raise unresolved resolutions/mitigations with the Department Manager. • Determine if a reasonably practical alternative resolution or mitigation can be offered. • Discuss alternative resolution or mitigation with complainant. • If no satisfactory resolution can be reached, the complainant should be advised of the dispute resolution process.
8.3 Dispute Resolution The WRSF project team has 30 working days to attain satisfactory resolution of a complaint or dispute. If the dispute is not resolved within the time allowed for internal dispute resolution, the following mediation system shall be triggered: • The Community Engagement Manager shall contact an independent mediator. Full details of the complaint, investigations and correspondence with the complainant will be provided to the independent mediator. • The independent mediator shall contact the complainant and instigate the appropriate mediation process. • Mediation will normally occur within 10 working days. • The independent mediator shall organise the time and place for mediation to occur. • The complainant and relevant project team member may be required to provide the independent mediator with a brief statement setting out their position with regard to the issues that need to be resolved in addition to other information requirements. • At the conclusion of the mediation session the complainant and relevant project team member, in consultation with the independent mediator, will prepare a written statement of any resolution for agreement and signature by the affected parties. • If mediation is not successful, the independent mediator will report this to GWA Senior Management and the complainant will be advised of their rights to pursue the matter further.
8.4 Reporting The following reporting will be undertaken: • Details of complaints received will be included in compliance reports and made available to relevant parties on request. • Monthly community consultation reports generated from the stakeholder data management system will be circulated internally. These will identify issues and allow for subsequent strategies/actions to manage the issues. • All matters not resolved within the agreed period will be escalated to GWA Senior Management and reviewed as soon as practical to achieve successful resolution.
8.5 Continual Improvement The Enquiries and Complaints Management System shall subject to regular audits to ensure conformity to this plan and to continually improve effectiveness and efficiency. The results from audits shall be reported to the GWA Senior Management and relevant stakeholders quarterly in the GWA HSEQ Quarterly Report. Separate internal and external independent audits shall be conducted annually, commencing from the date if approval and in accordance with the CO-PRC-0004 Audit and Inspection Procedure.
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White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan
Have your Say! The GWA Management System aims to continually improve and as such we welcome your feedback, ideas, suggestions and constructive comments. Have your say by emailing: [email protected]
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White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaint Handling Plan Appendix A
Template Letter Text for Initial Response to a Complaint
The sample text below should be used as a basis for any written initial response to a complaint. WRSF letter headed paper should be used for any printed correspondence.
Dear [name of complainant], Thank you for your [letter/email] dated [xxx]. We thank you for your correspondence and acknowledge your complaint in relation to [e.g. dust/noise/traffic]. A unique reference number has been allocated to your complaint within our internal Complaint Management System. GRWF takes compliance and community relations very seriously. We are committed to working with the community to ensure White Rock Solar Farm is meeting the compliance requirements of the Development Consent and limiting any adverse impacts arising from the project. We understand the specifics of the complaint relate to [include summary of complaint]. In order to assist us in investigating the circumstances at the time of the complaint and seek a resolution, we would be grateful if you could provide further information. In particular: • [e.g. specific time of complaint] • [e.g. location of complainant at time of complaint] • [e.g. description of issue] • [e.g. any other useful details] We will pass the details of the complaint to our Project Manager and Construction Site Manager. We will investigate the circumstance at the time of the complaint. Should any evidence of non-compliance with the Project Approval, Health and Safety legislation or other relevant legislation be found, White Rock Solar Farm will act accordingly to rectify the situation. I will provide an update on our investigations within a week and a proposed resolution. If investigations continue beyond a week, I will provide subsequent updates as necessary. Please don’t hesitate to contact me to discuss further. Kind regards,
[name] [Position] On behalf of White Rock Solar Farm Pty Ltd [contact details]
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White Rock Solar Farm – SSD Effective Date: 22/01/2018 Doc No. 7487 Environmental Version 6.0 Management Strategy Review Date: 22/01/2018
Appendix L WRSF Stakeholder Engagement Plan
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White Rock Solar Farm
White Rock Solar Farm Stakeholder and Community Engagement Plan
Prepared by:
Goldwind Australia Pty. Ltd. Suite 2, Level 23 – 201 Elizabeth Street, Sydney NSW 2000
WS-PM-PLN-0001 17/03/16 V1.0
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Revision Details
Document Information Information
Document Number and Name WS-PM-PLN-0001 White Rock Solar Farm Stakeholder and Community Engagement Plan Document Owner Sunny Rutherford Version: 1.0 Issue Date 17/03/17
Document Release This document will comply with GWA Document Management Procedure and will therefore be assigned with a registered document number. Issued copies of this document shall be labelled with a registered document number and identified as major version 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 etc. indicating an approved document, where the first issue will start at version 1.0. Document reviews where procedural content has not changes and only minor modification have been made, will display 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 etc. All controlled published documents are stored in the GWA SharePoint site. All copies of this document shall be distributed to persons listed within the Distribution List. Upon receipt of a new version, the relevant copy holder shall discard the superseded copy and adopt the new version.
Document History Version Issue Date Changes 0.1 18/2/16 Initial draft for comment 0.2 12/6/2016 Expansion and update 0.3 8/12/16 Update 0.4 3/01/17 Minor updating 0.5 8/02/17 Minor updating 0.6 17/03/17 Review and update in consultation with Newgate Engage 1.0 17/03/17 Issued version following feedback from Newgate Engage
Document Approval
Role Name Signature Date Checked Clare Powell 17/03/17 Authorised Laura Jeffery
Distribution A controlled version of this document will be stored on SharePoint.
COPYRIGHT ©: The concepts and information contained in this document are the property of Goldwind Australia Pty Ltd. Use or copying of this document, in whole or in part, without the written permission of Goldwind Australia Pty Ltd, constitutes an infringement of copyright.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 Introduction ...... 4 1.1 Plan background ...... 4 1.2 Project background ...... 4 1.3 Project approval and requirements for community engagement ...... 6 1.4 Reference documents and definition of community engagment ...... 6 1.5 Project negotiables ...... 7 2 Objectives and Approach ...... 7 2.1 Objectives ...... 8 2.2 Aims of the SaCEP ...... 8 2.3 Interaction with White Rock Wind Farm ...... 8 3 Community Context ...... 9 3.1 Community Profiles ...... 9 3.2 Infrastructure Audit ...... 10 3.3 Influence of community context on the engagement approach ...... 12 4 Project Stakeholders ...... 12 5 Community engagement risk indentification and controls ...... 14 6 Roles and Responsibilities ...... 18 7 Engagement Tools...... 19 7.1 White Rock Solar Farm Phases of Engagement ...... 19 7.2 Engagement Tools – at a glance ...... 19 7.3 Detailed engagment tools and techniques ...... 21 7.4 Internal processes to support the engagement tools ...... 25 8 Monitoring and Evaluation ...... 27 8.1 Internal self-assessment ...... 27 8.2 External assessment ...... 29 9 Complaints and Enquiries ...... 29 10 Media Management ...... 30 11 Record keeping and reporting ...... 31 11.1 Internal recording keeping ...... 31 11.2 Reporting ...... 31 Appendix A ...... 32 Appendix B ...... 34 Appendix C ...... 36 Appendix D ...... 37 Appendix E ...... 38 Appendix F...... 39 Appendix G ...... 40
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1 Introduction
1.1 Plan background The Stakeholder and Community Engagement Plan (SaCEP) has been prepared by Goldwind Australia Pty Ltd for the White Rock Solar Farm (WRSF). WRSF is committed to community engagement throughout the project and aims to provide opportunities for the community to be made aware of the project, informed of its details and, where possible, consulted on aspects of the project. The SaCEP guides all stakeholder and community engagement activities through the planning stage of the project through to the construction and operation phases. To reflect the current status of the project, this version of the plan focuses on engagement activities during pre-construction and construction.
1.2 Project background A 20 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) development is proposed adjacent to White Rock Wind Farm (WRWF). See general layout map at Figure 1. In September 2016, the project was awarded funding under the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) large scale renewable energy program. Subject to project financing and contractual arrangements, the construction of the solar farm could commence in June 2017 and be operational by end of 2017. The development would form a pioneering hybrid solar/wind renewable energy facility in the New England Tablelands of NSW. The solar farm would share the wind farm grid connection facilities and other infrastructure, including the substation, some access tracks and internal 33 kV underground electrical cabling. The shared infrastructure maximises the use of available facilities without requiring construction of additional infrastructure elsewhere. Co-location of the solar and wind projects also lowers the per unit cost of the solar energy produced at the White Rock locality and helps reduce the variability in the electricity output from the combined solar/wind facility. It is anticipated that approximately 50-70 hectares would be required by the solar array. The project would be hosted on private land. The solar farm would generate around 46,000 megawatt hours (MWh) in the first full year of operation, which is sufficient to power approximately 6,300 NSW homes annually. The operating life of the solar farm would be 25 – 30 years.
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Figure 1. General Layout of the Development (as included in the Development Consent).
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1.3 Project approval and requirements for community engagement A program of site studies, impact assessments and concept design development were completed as part of Development Application (DA) that was lodged in March 2016. NSW Department of Planning and Environment arranged a public exhibition of the DA and associated documents from 22 March 2016 to 26 April 2016. Seven submissions were received from government agencies, these submissions highlighted the requirements for site access arrangements (RMS Grafton NSW), watercourse management (DPI Water) etc. No submissions were received by non-government sectors of the community, this demonstrates a lack of community issues with the project. This may be due to increased community awareness and acceptance of large-scale renewable energy projects in the local area due to WRWF. The project Development Consent was granted in June 2016. The Development Consent requires the preparation of several plans that include obligations in relation to community engagement. The project’s Environmental Management Strategy must include a description of the following procedures to be implemented to: • keep the local community and relevant agencies informed about the operation and environmental performance of the development • receive, handle, respond to, and record complaints, and resolve any disputes that may arise.
Additionally, the Traffic Management Plan has a requirement for the notification of the local community about any traffic related impacts.
White Rock Solar is committed to going beyond minimum compliance requirements for community engagement to facilitate an engaged community and to fulfill the objectives and aims of the SaCEP.
1.4 Reference documents and definition of community engagment A number of good practice guidelines and reports have been referred to during the development of the SaCEP, including: • Planning for Effective Public Participation guidelines, International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) • ‘Community Engagement Guidelines for the Australian wind Industry’, Clean Energy Council • ‘Establishing the social licence to operate large scale solar facilities in Australia: insights from social research for industry’, ARENA, and • Australian Standard AS ISO 10002-2006 (formerly AS 2469 Complaints Handling).
The project uses the IAP2 definitions of public participation as a framework to guide community engagement, as shown in Figure 2. The terms referred to in this document: inform, consult, involve, collaborate, empower refer to the IAP2 spectrum. Using the IAP2 spectrum ensures the objectives of the community engagement tools are clear e.g. newsletters are regularly distributed to keep the local community informed of the project details and provide information on recent events in relation to the project.
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Figure 2. IAP2 Spectrum of public participation
1.5 Project negotiables The project has been designed around a number of technical requirements, and during the planning process input has been received via submissions during to the public exhibition period. The Infrastructure Sustainability Council of Australia (or ISCA) provides a definition of negotiables as follows: ‘It is important stakeholders understand what is and isn’t negotiable and why. Negotiable issues should be clarified with a statement about the intent and issues to be dealt with and details of how stakeholders are being asked to participate and why’ (IS Technical Manual, May 2016). For this project, its scope and definition has been explored and documented in the planning and approvals process. Therefore, the ability for stakeholders to change the scope of the project is reduced at this stage, however the project team remains committed to a range of different ways to inform and consult with stakeholders as detailed in Section 7. The negotiables that remain are centred around details of the project delivery that reduce any potential impacts on landowners or the local community.
2 Objectives and Approach
Stakeholder and community engagement is in its essence about making better, more sustainable decisions through a process that engenders trust and credibility. Stakeholder and community engagement contributes to informed decisions in a number of important ways. It brings all perspectives to the table; it identifies critical issues early; and it allows decisions to be understood and owned by as many people as possible.
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Specifically, for renewable energy projects, strong engagement creates mutual benefits for developers and communities. It is the process through which a developer interacts with stakeholders and community to inform the decision-making processes of the project. A strong and robust engagement program can, in general, facilitate the following outcomes: • build respectful relationships allowing stakeholder and community support for and identification with project operations and goals • decrease the levels of misinformation about the project and renewable energy in general • maintain company reputation and reduce the risk of reputational damage, and • reduce the financial and legal costs for developers. These overarching principles are equivalent to those outlined in the WRWF SaCEP.
2.1 Objectives The prime objective of the WRSF SaCEP is to successfully integrate the project into the community alongside the WRWF. In developing this plan, WRSF will seek to ‘inform’ and ‘consult’ the community/public in the project as per IAP2’s Public Participation Spectrum. This considers that the community will be informed of project activities, as required, and that their concerns will be acknowledged. WRSF will also provide feedback on how input from the public influences decisions around project activities. For the project to be considered a success at a local level, WRSF will build on the level of acceptance by community and stakeholders that is currently held by WRWF. The overarching objectives of this SaCEP therefore are: • To establish and maintain a level of good understanding of the project within the local community, and the local benefits it may provide. • To have a culture of openness, inclusiveness, responsiveness, and accountability. • To enable community integration of the project. • For WRSF to be considered as a valued component of the social and economic fabric of the local community. • To achieve a low or infrequent level of complaints in regards to lack of information about the project. • To achieve all regulatory requirements in relation to community engagement.
2.2 Aims of the SaCEP This plan aims to identify: • stakeholders for the project • risks and controls related to the community engagement for the project, and • a set of engagement tools against the project timeline to facilitate ongoing information and, where possible, consultation in the seeking of outcomes that satisfy the community and stakeholders.
2.3 Interaction with White Rock Wind Farm Due to the hybrid nature of the proposed project, the WRSF SaCEP will work in tandem with the SaCEP developed for WRWF. The majority of the engagement activities will be shared between both projects.
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3 Community Context
3.1 Community Profiles
Glen Innes Severn Shire and Glen Innes Township The Glen Innes Severn Local Government Area (LGA) contains the township of Glen Innes, the villages of Emmaville, Deepwater, Red Range and Glencoe, and the hamlets of Glen Elgin, Wellingrove, Wytaliba, and Dundee. The Glen Innes Severn LGA is growing and thriving. The population is approximately 8,656 (2011 census). The local economy is strongly based on agriculture (41.9 per cent), with a significant tourism/service sector (32 per cent) also operating. The remainder of the economy is made up of retail trade (14 per cent), and health and community services (12.1 per cent). Opportunity exists for most forms of agriculture. The area is well suited for stud livestock enterprises, equestrian pursuits and intensive livestock industries. Glen Innes Township is the major township for the LGA and is characterised by the following (at the 2011 Census): • A total population of 6,135 persons. • Large proportion of family households (45 per cent) with almost 80 per cent comprising households with children under the age of 15 years. • Significant representation of empty nesters with a high proportion of couples without children (34 per cent of households) and a high proportion of people aged between 55 and 74 years (26 per cent of persons). • Almost seven percent of the population are indigenous persons (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders). • Almost 35 per cent of eligible persons reported year ten was their highest year of school completed. • High proportion of low income earners with 50 per cent of households earning less than $1,000 per week. • Small labour force with 43.7 per cent of eligible persons not in the labour force, with a high proportion of this figure attributed to likely retirees (70 per cent of non-labour force are aged 55 years and over). • Unemployment rate of 3.6 per cent. • High levels of disadvantage with a SEIFA score of 905 (decile 2).
Inverell Shire and Inverell Township Inverell LGA contains the primary township of Inverell and small townships of Gilgai, Ashford, Bonshaw, Yetman and Delungra. Inverell LGA covers and 8,623 square kilometres and is characterised by rich agricultural land and large mineral deposits, specifically tin and sapphires. The area produces the majority of the world’s sapphires. The LGA has a total population of approximately 16,000 residents (2011 Census) however, due to the commercial centre of the LGA, council have identified a target area estimated to include 60,000 people. Inverell Township is the major township for the LGA and has very similar characteristics as Glen Innes, including the following characteristics (at the 2011 Census): • A total population of 11,399 persons.
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• Large proportion of family households (50 per cent) with 78 per cent comprising households with children under the age of 15 years. • High proportion of single-parent households (19 per cent), almost 74 per cent of which have children under the age of 15 years. • Significant representation of empty nesters with a high proportion of couples without children (29 per cent of households) and a high proportion of people aged between 55 and 74 years (23 per cent of persons). • Over seven percent of the population are indigenous persons (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders). • Over 34 percent of eligible persons reported year ten was their highest year of school completed. • High proportion of low income earners with 54 per cent of households earning less than $1,000 per week. • Small labour force with approximately 40 per cent of eligible persons not in the labour force, with a high proportion of this figure attributed to likely retirees (over 65 per cent of non-labour force are aged 55 years and over). • Unemployment rate of 3.7 per cent. • High levels of disadvantage with a SEIFA score of 919 (decile 2).
3.2 Infrastructure Audit Within the scope of the WRWF SaCEP, a desktop audit was conducted to document the level of services and infrastructure available to residents of the surrounding area to the wind farm. The findings from this audit are relevant to the WRSF. The audit encompasses social infrastructure which refers to community services and facilities that promote quality of life. Information from the audit was important in the development of the WRWF SaCEP as it helped shape the strategies for communicating with and disseminating information to stakeholders. Table 1. Summary of Social Infrastructure
Social Infrastructure Facility Location Council Chambers Glen Innes Severn Council 265 Grey Street, Glen Innes Administration Centre Glen Innes Severn Council offices 136 Church Street, Glen Innes Inverell Shire Council 144 Ortho Street, Inverell Post Office Glen Innes Australia Post Shop 319 Grey Street, Glen Innes Inverell Post Office 97 Otho Street, Inverell School/Pre-school Glen Innes High School Edward Street, Glen Innes Glen Innes Public School Church Street, Glen Innes Glen Innes West Infant School Coronation Avenue, Glen Innes Ross Hill Public School Bannockburn Road, Inverell MacIntyre High School Swanbrook Road Inverell Pub Glen Innes and District Services Club 120 Grey Street Glen Innes Railway Tavern 73 Bourke Street Glen Innes New England Club 98 West Avenue, Glen Innes
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Aquatic centres Glen Innes Swim Centre 179 West Avenue Glen Innes Inverell Memorial Swimming Pool Evans Street, Inverell Sporting Facilities Glen Innes Golf Club Hutchison Road, Glen Innes Glen Innes Bowling Cub Wentworth Street, Glen Innes Glen Innes Racecourse Damaresq Street, Glen Innes Kerry Mead Rugby League Park Coronation Avenue Glen Innes Inverell Racecourse Tingha Road, Inverell Inverell Sporting Complex Eucalypt Drive, Inverell Varley Oval Lawrence Street, Inverell Cameron Park Cameron Street, Inverell Brooks Oval Henderson Street, Inverell Tourist Information Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre Grey Street, Glen Innes Inverell Visitor Information Centre 11-31 Campbell St, Inverell Transport Facilities Glen Innes Airport 779 Emmaville Road, Glen Innes Inverell North Airport Gwydir Highway, Inverell Community Parks Local council-owned facilities: Wilson Park, Grey Street Glen Innes Lynch Oval Abbott Street, Glen Innes King George V Oval West Avenue Glen Innes Coronation Park West Avenue Glen Innes Veness Park West Avenue Glen Innes ANZAC Park West Avenue Glen Innes Glen Innes Showgrounds Bourke Street, Glen Innes Lions Park Old Bundarra Road, Inverell Sinclair Park Glen Innes Road, Inverell Victoria Park Evans Street, Inverell Lake Inverell Lake Inverell Drive, Inverell Campbell Park Captain Cook Drive, Inverell Griffith Showgrounds Tingha Road, Inverell Inverell Park Eucalyptus Drive, Inverell Library Glen Innes Severn Public and TAFE 71 Grey Street, Glen Innes Library Inverell Shire Public Library 55-59 Campbell Street, Inverell Associations/Clubs Glen Innes and District Historical Ferguson Street, Glen Innes Society Inverell Lions Club Inverell East Rotary Club Glen Innes Rotary Club GLENRAC Glen Innes Show Society
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Glen Innes Lions Club Community Services Glen Innes District Health Service Taylor Street, Glen Innes Inverell District Hospital Swanbrook Road, Inverell Glen Innes and District Community Club 120 Grey St, Glen Innes Churches St Patrick Catholic Church Gwydir Highway, Glen Innes Cameron Memorial Uniting Church Bourke Street, Glen Innes Other businesses Inverell Art Gallery 5 Evans Street, Inverell Emergency Services Emergency Operational Centre Rivers Street, Inverell Glen Innes Fire Station Bourke Street, Glen Innes
3.3 Influence of community context on the engagement approach The results of the community context and infrastructure audit, along with existing knowledge and experience gained from community engagement activities WRWF over the past 18 months, provide a number of influences on the engagement strategy. These include: • The community around the project area is rural with a strong focus on agriculture. Direct communication with neighbours (face to face meetings, phone etc.) is likely to be the most appropriate engagement method. • Glen Innes serves as the main community focus, with the majority of services and community groups based there. Inverell provides a secondary focus (being more distant) with a larger population and more shops and services. Wider engagement activities will be focused on these two towns through the shop front, presentations to associations/clubs and attendance at local events. • Given the rural nature of the area, internet access may be poor. Therefore, multiple participation routes will be used including face to face meetings, media and post.
4 Project Stakeholders
Stakeholders are individuals or organisations, which affect, or can be affected by project decisions. Based on the community feedback received for WRWF, local community stakeholders generally express an interest in the project with specific questions related to the project stage i.e. the delivery schedule for the project, construction start date etc. Importantly, people, attitudes, ideas and perceptions are not static and neither are stakeholders – they will emerge and evolve throughout the engagement process. Ideally the stakeholder engagement process will give a voice to a broad range of interests, perspectives and agendas within the context of the WRSF. Given this, from the outset and throughout the engagement process consideration must be given to those who will be potentially affected by, or interested in the project. For the purpose of the SaCEP, the following definitions have been adopted: • Project team include the team involved in the construction and operation of the WRSF. • WRWF project team include the team involved in the construction and operation of the WRWF. • Community are the interested members of the community, community groups and organisations including any that may oppose the solar farm. • Construction impacted properties include properties that may have some indirect impact such as increased construction traffic.
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• Media are representatives of print and broadcast media at both the local, regional or national level. • Key Stakeholders include Local or State Government, Government Agencies, Regulatory Bodies, Emergency Services, businesses and others who may have a specific interest in the project. • Businesses are local and other businesses that may subcontract or supply materials for the project. Described below in Table 2 are the project’s stakeholder groups. Table 2. Project stakeholders
Group Type Group Group Description Name Aeronautical Local aerodromes, operating companies, Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), Department of Defence. WRWF Stakeholders who are members of the WRWF CCC. Community Consultative Committee (CCC) Federal Elected Current Member for New England is Barnaby Joyce. government Officers State government Elected Currently member for Northern Tablelands is Adam Marshall. Officer Including local government agencies, Office of Environment and Heritage, Roads and Maritime Services, NSW Renewable Energy Advocates and Environmental Protection Agency. Local government Elected Including Glen Innes Severn and Inverell Shire Councils. Officers Financial Banks financing the Project and other financiers with an interest in the Project. Includes the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA). Easements Properties with agreement for transmission lines, cabling or noise Landowners agreements etc. Construction impacted. Host Landowner Property with an agreement to have solar panels or cable and access easements. Construction impacted. The solar farm will be hosted on the private land of one landowner. Neighbours Residents up to 3 kilometres from the solar panels. Indigenous Groups Groups that are within the scope of WRWF and may also have an interest in WRSF: Anaiwan Local Aboriginal Land Council Kwiembal Elders Indigenous Corporation Kwiembal Traditional Owners Glen Innes Local Aboriginal Land Council Edgerton-Kwiembal Aboriginal Corporation Local Business Businesses in the towns of Glen Innes and Inverell.
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Local Community E.g. Land care, CWA, Rotary, Lions, Probus etc. Group Media Local Glen Innes Examiner, Inverell Times and Guyra Argus etc. Regional ABC Tamworth, Northern Daily Leader etc. State/ Daily Telegraph, Sydney Morning Herald, The Australian, ABC News, National Financial Review, The Land etc. Schools and Local education contacts. childcare Transport Companies using the route, e.g. school buses. companies Utilities Including telecommunications, gas, electricity.
5 Community engagement risk indentification and controls
The Goldwind HSEQ Risk Management Procedure has been used as a framework to identify, analyse and control hazards and associated risks relating to community engagement for all phases of the WRSF project. Table 3 below outlines how we ensure that we manage risks effectively and efficiently. The risk controls noted in the table directly link to the engagement tools outlined in section 7.
Identification of unwanted events (hazard or risk), risk assessment and control is an on-going process. All steps in the risk management process will be monitored and reviewed to ensure continuous improvement within any internal and/or external assessments of the SaCEP. In addition, the risk assessment will be reviewed when new information becomes available, or if an incident occurs.
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Table 3. Community engagement risk identification and controls
Theme Unwanted Cause(s) Description of potential Consequence Likelihood Rating Risk controls Additional risk Consequence Likelihood Rating event (i.e. consequences controls
Hazard or risk
description)
Project 1. Unreasonable Misunderstanding of Breakdown in community 4 3 High Early engagement with near Identify 2 3 Moderate
- - - -
Major Possible Minor Possibl
commencement expectation of community influence. relationships. Changes neighbours and interested alternative project Opportunistic approach required to project community (one-on-one). negotiables or
negotiables from neighbours. implementation beyond Emphasis negotiables and non- seek alternative e from near GWA acceptance (impacts negotiables to community. neighbour neighbours project delivery or agreements. and/or financial). community. Complaints and 1. High level of Insufficient community Additional DPE audits; 3 3 Moderate Inform community through range 3 2 Moderate
- - - -
enquiries complaints consultation, poor response breakdown in community Moderate Possible of tools (newsletter, website, moderate Unlikely against the times to enquiries or relations and trust. media etc.), engage early with near
project. complaints, disrespectful neighbours.
engagement approach. Adhere to complaints and enquiries plan. 2. Specific Poor management of Additional monitoring 3 3 Moderate Adhere to Development Consent 3 2 Moderate
- - - -
construction or expectations, breach of required, additional costs, Moderate Possible conditions. Provide regular moderate Unlikely operational conditions (e.g. additional DPE audits. information updates to community
complaint to construction noise, working (newsletter, website, media etc.).
DPE, EPA or hours etc.) other regulatory body. 3. Traffic Poor traffic management, Delay in delivery schedule, 3 4 High Adhere to Traffic Management 3 3 Moderate
- - - -
Moderate Moderate likely Moderate Possible
incident deviation from delivery complaint lodged by Plan, ensure delivery schedule is involving route/schedule, lack of community member, loss communicated to community.
community information publicly of trust and respect for
member. available, poor driving project and associated
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Brand 1. Breakdown in Incident on site, mis- Poor relationships, ill 3 4 High Go beyond minimum standards to 3 2 Moderate
- - - -
M Likely moderate Unlikely
reputation relationship management of feeling in community, facilitate engagement, consult with with host relationships, disrespectful delays to construction, oderate landowners as construction
landowner(s). engagement approach, resources required long progresses.
unreasonable requests from term to re-build landowners. relationships. 2. Protestors at Mis-information, Unwanted media 4 3 High Go beyond minimum standards to Engage early with 4 1 Moderate
- - - -
Major Possible major Rare
event or site. disingenuous engagement. attention, negative image facilitate engagement. political around project, loss of stakeholders
positive endorsement/participatio n from wider stakeholders.
4 3 High 4 1 Moderate
3. Excess Mis-information, lack of Loss of brand, negative Engage with local journalists early, Engage early with -
- - -
Rare
major Possible major
negative media positive media releases, publicity, loss of positive proactively issue media releases, political
attention. non-compliance, begrudged endorsement/participatio aim to create level of acceptance of stakeholders
individuals/group n from wider stakeholders, the project in the community. financing or funding agreements delayed, political scrutiny. Compliance 1. Non- Breach of conditions Additional DPE audits, 4 2 Moderate Adhere to Development Consent 4 1 Moderate
- - - -
Majo major Rare requirements compliance increased complaints, unlikely conditions. against negative media, political
r
community scrutiny.
related matters in the Development Consent. 2. Legal action Mis-information, begrudged Resources required to 4 2 Moderate Adhere to Development Consent 4 1 Moderate
- - - -
Major major Rare from individuals/group, poor manage legal challenge, unlikely conditions, engage with all community relationship with negative media. community groups, go beyond
groups. community. compliance obligations to facilitate
engagement.
3 2 Moderate 3 moderate 1 Low
Community 1. Community Lack of transparency in Disengagement of - Inform community through range
- -
moderate
Rare
unlikely
acceptance or division around engagement activities, mis- stakeholders from project, of tools (newsletter, website, approval of the the project. information, benefits not negative media. media etc.), operate shop front.
project being shared.
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2. Unwarranted Lack or appropriate Distraction of company 2 3 Moderate Inform community through range 2 2 Low
- - - -
Minor Possible minor Unlikely
community information. time from delivering the of tools (newsletter, website, concerns project. media etc.), operate shop front.
requiring
additional internal resources to manage. 3. High number Lack of information, Resources required to 4 3 High Inform community through range 4 2 Moderate
- - - -
Major Possible major Unlikely
of submissions negatively focused respond to and manage of tools (newsletter, website, within the community. responses, negative media etc.), engage early with near
planning publicity, changes neighbours.
process required to project implementation beyond GWA acceptance (impacts project delivery or financial), planning processes not being approved.
2 3 Moderate 2 2 Moderate
4. Misinformation, poor Breakdown in trust, - Ensuring community is informed
- - -
Minor Overestimation expectation management in negative publicity. Possible fully of programs, aim for openness minor Unlikely of economic community and accountability in engagement
benefits in local approach, work with EPC Team to
community. deliver benefits.
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6 Roles and Responsibilities
This section details the roles and responsibilities for the WRSF project team in the implementation of the SaCEP including the key members of the project team, their role and responsibilities. Team members need to be aware of what is expected of them and prepared to undertake each of these activities when required. Table 4 outlines the key project team members. Table 4. Key Goldwind Staff members associated with the project
Role Responsibilities
Managing Director, GWA • Ultimate responsibility for the performance of GWA Australia (responsible for income, costs, company reputation). • Media spokesperson for GWA. • Final sign off on final content for responses to media enquiries, media releases and project key messaging.
Vice President, GWA Capital • Owner. and Director of White Rock Solar Farm Ltd • Responsible for performance of the WRSF project.
Development Manager, WRSF • Manages overall project timescales and cost on behalf of project owner.
Project Representative, WRWF • Assists with relationships with landowners involved in the WRSF project and the WRWF project. • Assists with compliance activities.
Community Engagement • Responsible for community engagement for the project. Manager • Complaints and enquiries management. • Owner of the SaCEP. • Stakeholder data management system maintenance. • Ensure review of plan occurs and compile evaluation reports
Local Representative, WRWF • Manages the local shop front in Glen Innes • Coordinates community engagement activities. • Provides an on-ground interface with the local public. • Media monitoring. • Records engagement activities and monthly reports
Development Compliance • Ensures compliance with planning approval and other approvals Manager on behalf of the project owner. • The main point of contact with the Department of Planning and Environment.
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Technical Services Manager • Manages grid connection arrangements and solar performance.
Service Manager • Responsible for solar operations and maintenance once the project becomes fully operational.
7 Engagement Tools
The selection of a range of community engagement tools is based on: • the objective of community engagement (e.g. inform, consult) • risks related to community engagement, as identified in section 5 • knowledge and experience with the community gained through the community engagement process for WRWF • the results of the community context review and infrastructure audit • what is negotiable within the project delivery, and • current phase of the project. Our commitment is to always keep relevant stakeholders informed about the project, along with any impacts and changes that may potentially affect them.
7.1 White Rock Solar Farm Phases of Engagement The phases in the project are as follows: Phase 1: Pre-construction • Advise of pre-construction activity Phase 2: Construction • Commencement of construction • Construction activities Phase 3: Operation (Practical completion – onwards) • Commissioning of WRSF • Handover to operations
7.2 Engagement Tools – at a glance
Table 5. Summary of WRSF engagement tools by project stage
construction
-
Operations
Construction Construction Pre 1. Dedicated telephone line, email address and postal address 2. Project website
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3. WRWF CCC
4. WRWF Newsletters (or direct letters)
5. Advertisements (project and construction updates)
6. Feedback forms
7. One-on-one meetings with involved landowners, neighbours and relevant stakeholders. 8. Neighbour agreements
9. Local shop front staffed by a local project representative
10. Information displays (open house style) at community events 11. Presentations to special interest groups
12. Solar farm field trips
13. Local Business Participation Program
14. Briefings of local, state and national government officers and elected members. Anticipated higher resource period Anticipated lower resource period
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7.3 Detailed engagment tools and techniques Outlined in the following table are the indicative tools for the WRSF at each phase. Note that the timeframes are indicative only. Table 6. Detailed outline of engagement tools for WRSF
Tool Description Target Level of
Stakeholders public
Engagement
construction
-
Pre Construction Operations 1. Dedicated A dedicated FREECALL (1800) telephone line, email address and postal address All Inform and telephone line, will be established for the duration of the project to allow interested and consult email address concerned community members to find out more about the project, ask and postal questions and express their concerns, complaints and feedback. address
2. Project website A specific project website with dedicated URL has been established. The All Inform and website includes: stakeholders consult with internet • basic information about the project e.g. who is the proponent for the project access and who is constructing the project etc. • community information and latest news • a library of relevant project information e.g. development consents, project updates etc. • contact details for complaints and enquiries, and • online feedback form to allow stakeholders to provide detailed feedback.
3. WRWF CCC WRWF CCC meetings include an update on WRSF as a standing agenda item. community Consult This provides an opportunity for regular updates to the community on the members, progress of the solar farm and a platform for community feedback. WRWF CCC members
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The WRWF CCC (required under the WRWF project approval) is a two-way communication vehicle for the community and the wind farm project. As such issues will need to be monitored to ensure that any issues with the wind farm are managed separately from the solar farm. For examples of previous updates on the WRSF that have been included in the WRWF CCC see Appendix A. 4. WRWF WRWF newsletters are currently sent to all community members within 10 Nearby Inform newsletter (or kilometres of the wind farm. The newsletters provide an update on recent residents direct letter) WRWF project works, construction activities and schedules, community (within 10 activities and have details for finding out more information on specific things. kilometres), The newsletters include a standing update on the WRSF. The newsletters are broader distributed several times per year. community For examples of previous updates on the WRSF that have been included in the WRWF newsletter see Appendix B. For the solar farm, direct letters to landowners will be used for specific requirements, such as access requirements etc. (rather than the newsletter). 5. Advertisements Advertisements to be published in the local newspapers (for example Glen All Inform (project/constru Innes Examiner and Inverell Times) and broadcast by the local radio at regular ction updates) intervals. These will inform the broader community about the project, outline key engagement events, provide notification of construction activities and schedules, contact details and ways to obtain more information. 6. Feedback form A feedback form will be prepared to allow stakeholders the opportunity to All Consult provide detailed feedback on the project and how the project might interact with the community’s needs, ambitions and concerns and the community engagement process. A feedback form will be available online at the project website. Hard copies will also be available at the WRWF shopfront, as well as events and presentations. 7. One-on-one The project staff will have one-on-one meetings with involved landowners, Host Inform and meetings with neighbours and relevant stakeholders as required. landowner, consult involved One-on-one meetings with landowners within 3km of the solar farm are neighbours, landowners, undertaken regularly due to ongoing engagement for WRWF. These meetings
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neighbours and will be used as an opportunity to provide updates on the progress of the solar nearby relevant farm and construction activities and schedules. residents stakeholders. These meeting will also be used as a mechanism for ongoing consultation regarding any potential impacts to farm operations such as management of livestock, the use of water from farm dams etc. 8. Neighbour Neighbours with properties directly bordering the solar farm have been offered Neighbours Inform and agreements neighbour agreements that spread the benefits of the project and recognise consult potential impacts during construction etc. 9. Local shop front A dedicated drop in information centre for WRWF was established in April 2016 All Inform staffed by a local on the main street of Glen Innes (303C Grey Street). The shopfront is staffed by project the local representative. It includes static information display about both the representative wind and solar projects, general information on wind and solar energy, information on other projects constructed by Goldwind recent project updates and newsletters etc. The shopfront provides the public the opportunity to find out more about the project, talk one-on-one with the local representative and provide feedback on the project. The shopfront is open Monday – Thursday 10am-3:30pm. For the current display on the WRSF that is set up in WRWF shopfront see Appendix C. 10. Information Information displays to be held in convenient community locations or at All Inform and displays (open community events, generally focused in Glen Innes area. consult house style) at The sessions will be staffed by the local representative and the project team if community available. They will include static information display about the project, recent events project newsletters and avenues to gain further information. The sessions provide all stakeholders the opportunity to find out more about the project, talk one-on-one with the local representative and provide feedback on the project. Importantly these sessions provide an opportunity for the project to understand the needs and concerns of the community. For the materials used for the Community Open Day (21 March 2016) please see Appendix D.
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11. Presentations to The local representative presents regular information sessions to interested Special Inform special interest community groups about WRWF. These sessions are also used to provide interest groups information to community members about the solar farm. groups e.g. For examples of previous updates on the WRSF that have been included in Probus, Rotary presentations to special interest groups please see Appendix E. etc. 12. Solar farm field At construction completion and during operations, field trips will be available All Inform trips for interested community members. We envisage scheduling these once or twice per year. The tours will provide community members with the opportunity to see and experience the site and the construction process up close. Fieldtrips may be arranged as required from the commencement of construction, this will be subject to Health and Safety considerations. 13. Local Business As undertaken for WRWF, a local business participation program will be Local Involve Participation undertaken in consultation with local councils and local industry community, Program representatives. This will maximise opportunities for supply of materials and and local jobs in the local area. businesses. 14. Briefings of local, Briefings regarding WRWF have been provided to relevant government officers local, state Inform state and and elected members as required. Several local elected members have also and national national attended events and site visits. Briefings on WRSF will be undertaken as government government required to ensure government officers and elected members with an interest officers and officers and in the area, are up to date with project developments and effective working elected elected relationships continue. members members. These briefings will also be used as a mechanism for ongoing consultation regarding any potential changes to road use and condition during construction and decommissioning.
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7.4 Internal processes to support the engagement tools Outlined in the following table are the indicative tools and processes to be used internally to support the implementation of the engagement tools outlined above. Note that the timeframes are indicative only. Table 7. Detailed outline of internal tools and processes to support the engagement tools outlined in table 6.
Tool Description Target
Stakeholders
construction
-
Pre Construction Operations 1. Communication A series of communication protocols have been developed in accordance with Project team protocols the WRWF communication protocols. These include procedures for the following: • enquiries and complaints handling • internal communication and approval response times, and • key contacts for the project. The communication protocols will be circulated to relevant staff and will be updated as required.
2. Stakeholder data The WRSF will use a stakeholder data management system to capture all Project team management contact from external stakeholders. system It will be used to record all interactions with stakeholders including: • date and time • type of interaction (phone, email etc.) • any personal details provided • nature of the issue e.g complaint, and • actions taken.
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For an example of the stakeholder data management system please see Appendix #.
3. Key messages A series of key messages have been developed to ensure information about the Project team project and the engagement process is clear and consistent. The key messages will be updated regularly and will provide the basis of all communication material. Staff working on the project will be provided with the key messages to ensure that they are aware of key information surrounding the project and that information they disseminate is consistent and accurate. See Appendix G for key messages.
4. Media A program of milestone announcements of interest to the media will be Project team, engagement developed. Engagement with the media will be undertaken as outlined in media plan section 10. stakeholders Media releases for WRWF have been provided to relevant local and other media sources as required. Media releases on WRSF will be undertaken in accordance with the plan to ensure all media stakeholders with an interest in the area, are up to date with project developments and effective working relationships continue. 5. Internal and A summary report detailing the key findings from each phase of engagement Project team external will be prepared (detailed in section 8). A summary of the assessments may be assessments published on the WRSF website.
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8 Monitoring and Evaluation
To measure the effectiveness of the SaCEP, an evaluation of the engagement process and outcomes will be undertaken at the end of each project phase (as outlined in section 7.1). The outcomes of this process will be shared with relevant GWA management, ARENA and any other relevant key groups as required by ARENA. The outcomes will be used to update the SaCEP accordingly and ensure continuous improvement of the community engagement approach for the project.
8.1 Internal self-assessment The Evaluation Framework for Community Engagement (2007) based on the United Nations Brisbane Declaration will be the framework for self-assessment. Table 7 outlines the United Nations Brisbane Declaration 2005: Community Engagement Evaluation Framework principles and indicators. It also lists suggested questions to prompt the project team to discuss goal setting for engagement monitoring and evaluation. Examples of possible measurement techniques are also noted to inform the discussion and future refinement of measurement approaches. The evaluation framework outlined below also considers industry standard criteria from IAP2’s evaluation of engagement projects to determine: a) the extent to which engagement project requirements were identified b) achievement of project goals and objectives c) satisfaction levels amongst all stakeholders d) cultural awareness of and ongoing commitment to community and stakeholder engagement e) degree of stakeholder involvement and comparison of this against the WSFR project’s positioning to ‘inform’ and ‘consult’ the community f) change and impact as a result of engagement outcomes, and g) the need for further analysis of outcomes or additional engagement activities.
Table 8. WRSF project evaluation framework principles and indicators
Principle Indicators Measurement techniques to be Project phases undertaken
Integrity • Openness and • At the end of each consultation • Pre-construction honesty about period WRSF will undertake • Construction scope and purpose. internal assessment of project objectives and principles to • Operation • Appreciate determine how well these were respective roles and followed. WRWF will seek responsibilities. feedback about openness, honesty, trust and relationships with the Project Team.
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Inclusion • Opportunity for a • At the end of each consultation • Pre-construction diverse range of period WRSF will internally assess • Construction values and the variety of engagement tools perspectives to be and techniques, and the • Operation freely expressed opportunities for a wide range of and heard. stakeholders to contribute their feedback. This assessment will • Representative of consider elements such as time of the population. events, location, participation levels, different stakeholder groups represented during engagement etc.
Deliberation • Sufficient and • At the end of each consultation • Pre-construction credible information period WRSF will assess response • Construction for dialogue. times to queries and methods of information updates. • Operation • Space to weigh options, understand • WRWF will regularly seek • Pre-construction and reframe issues, feedback on engagement events movement towards • Construction from participants. Including developing shared provision of easy to understand • Operation understanding, and credible information. identifying common ground and shared values.
Influence • People have input in • At the end of each consultation • Pre-construction how they period WRSF will review internally • Construction participate. whether project scope and opportunities for community • Operation • Policies and services involvement (negotiables and reflect their non-negotiables) were involvement, and communicated accurately to their impact is participants. apparent. • At the end of each consultation • Pre-construction period WRWF will review where • Construction community feedback has influenced the engagement • Operation strategy and/or project delivery.
Capacity • Address barriers. • At the end of the first consultation • Pre-construction period and again at project • Build capacity and • Operation completion, WRSF will undertake confidence of a community survey/ people to questionnaire to measure the participate change in project understanding meaningfully. whether participants viewed the • Engender a shared process as meaningful and sense of ownership beneficial.
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and commitment to • At the end of all consultation • Pre-construction the process and periods WRWF will review outcome. • Construction internally whether sufficient and • Adequately credible information provided for • Operation resource hard to understanding and discussion.
reach groups to participate • At the end of all consultation • Pre-construction meaningfully in the periods WRSF will review • Construction broader community. internally whether the engagement process engaged a • Operation wide range of key stakeholders.
Sustainable • Transparency • At the end of the construction • Construction decisions phase WRSF will internally assess • Recognise and the extent to which consultation communicate the outcomes can inform the needs, interests and engagement strategy and/or values of all parties, project delivery. including decision makers. • At the end of each consultation • Pre-construction • Decision makers period WRSF will evaluate the • Construction find the output number of new relationships and useful and have connections developed within the • Operation sufficient community as a result of this
confidence to act on project. the community’s recommendations. • At the end of each consultation • Pre-construction period WRWF will ask the • More cohesive and • Construction community if they learnt informed something during the process and • Operation communities and if they feel involved in the governance resulting project. resulting from the process.
8.2 External assessment In addition to internal self-assessment, it is proposed that the WRSF project undergo a rigorous formal evaluation and monitoring by an independent and respected evaluator. Evaluation of the SaCEP will be undertaken in parallel with any evaluation measures being undertaken for WRWF SaCEP.
9 Complaints and Enquiries
The following avenues are provided for enquiries and complaints during of the WRSF project. Table 9. WRSF contact points
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WRWF Shopfront – 303C Grey Street, Glen Innes 2370. In person By arrangement at the Site Office, Operations & Maintenance Facility, head office or other appropriate location. Telephone 1800 074 115 (24 hours)
Email [email protected] White Rock Solar Farm Post Level 23, 201 Elizabeth Street Sydney NSW 2000
www.whiterocksolarfarm.com The website provides: • a feedback form for detailed feedback on the project and the Project website community engagement process • a contact form for registering to receive further information • details of other forms of contact (email, post and phone).
The handling of complaints and enquiries for this project will be undertaken in accordance with the GWA Complaints and Enquiries Handling Policy and the White Rock Solar Farm Enquiries and Complaints Handling Plan.
10 Media Management
Responses to media enquiries and the distribution of media releases relevant to WRSF will be managed by the Community Engagement Manager and the GWA Media Contact. Prior to responding to media enquiries and distributing media releases, the Community Engagement Manager will consult with ARENA for endorsement of the draft content.
Table 10. Roles and responsibilities for media management for WRSF.
Role Responsibility • Recommend to the Managing Director whether response should be provided to media enquiry and what form the response should be in (e.g. written, verbal etc.) Community • Draft responses to media enquiries and media releases in coordination with the Engagement Media Contact and provide to the Managing Director for approval. Manager • Liaise with relevant external stakeholders (e.g. ARENA or other contractors, investors that have been mentioned in the media release) for endorsement of draft content
• Determine whether response should be provided to media enquiry Managing • Provide approval for final content of response to media enquiry and media Director releases
• Media spokesperson for GWA
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ARENA contact • Provide endorsement for final content person • Coordinate with Goldwind Head Office for approval of content of response to Media Contact media enquiry and media releases • Release approved content to media sources
11 Record keeping and reporting
11.1 Internal recording keeping A stakeholder data management system is used to record all interactions with stakeholders for the WRSF. The same system is currently used to record all interactions for the WRWF, interactions specific to the WRSF are categorised within the system.
The process for maintaining up-to-date records of submissions, complaints and enquiries arising from community consultations and the responses provided to these submissions, complaints and enquiries is detailed within the WRSF Enquiries and Complaints Handling Plan.
11.2 Reporting A summary of the community consultation undertaken as part of this plan, will provided to ARENA on a monthly basis within the broader reporting for the solar farm. This includes a summary of submissions, complaints and questions arising from community consultation and responses provided. These are reported to ARENA within 30 business days of receipt.
Internal reporting on community engagement is included in monthly project reporting to Goldwind management. Any significant community engagement issues are escalated to management immediately.
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Appendix A
Examples of updates included in the WRWF CCC meetings. 1. Update on the WRSF included in the WRWF CCC meeting held 2 February 2017.
2. Update on the WRSF included in the WRWF CCC meeting held 3 November 2016.
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3. Update on the WRSF included in the WRWF CCC meeting held 5 May 2016.
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Appendix B
Examples of updates on the WRSF that have been included in the WRWF newsletter.
WRWF Newsletter (February 2017) WRWF Newsletter (November 2016)
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WRWF Newsletter (August 2016) WRWF Newsletter (March 2016)
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Appendix C
Photographs of current displays relating to the WRSF at the WRWF Local shopfront.
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Appendix D
Example of materials (public notification and information boards) related to the Community Open Day (March 2016).
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Appendix E
Example of materials related to WRSF included in presentations to special interest groups by the WRWF local representative.
Presentation to the Inverell Probus (2 May 2016).
Presentation to the Glen Innes Rotary (6 June 2016).
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Appendix F
Example of a report from the stakeholder data management system that is utilised as a shared project for the WRWF and WRSF projects (project termed WRWF in the system).
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Appendix G
Key Messages
Outlined below are the key messages to be communicated during the engagement process. It is expected that the key messages will require revising and amendment as the project progresses.
Strategic messages Construction is anticipated to start on site in early 2017. • Management of construction will be by GWA Australia. • WRSF is preparing a Environmental Management Strategy WRSF aims for best practice community engagement. • The core principles of openness, inclusiveness, responsiveness and accountability will be followed by WRSF throughout community engagement. • The community engagement process is intended to inform our decisions, build capacity of interested stakeholders and strengthen relationships within our local community. The WRSF is a long-term project. • WRSF is committed to the New England Tablelands community and to facilitating the long-term integration of the project into the community. This is to be undertaken in parallel with WRWF. The project owner is GWA Australia • GWA was established in 2009 and currently has two operating wind farms in Australia • GWA will be constructing two solar/wind hybrids in NSW in 2017. • GWA have a long term presence in Australia with over 60 staff. • GWA staff will have a presence at the solar farm during construction and operation.
Supporting messages The community benefits of the WRSF project • Green and renewable electricity capable of servicing up to 6,300 homes annually from Stage 11. • In the vicinity of $2 to $5 million injected into the local economy during construction, depending on availability of services in the region. • Creation of jobs during construction (up to 150 local jobs) and operations (2 local jobs). • A dedicated Local Business Participation Program to facilitate local businesses opportunities. • The project will fund all repair and necessary upgrades to local roads required for the construction of the project.
1 These figures are calculated on a 175MW solar farm using the NSW Solar Farm Greenhouse Gas Savings Tool calculator: http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/ggecapp/CalculatorStandard.aspx WS-PM-PLN-0001 WRSF Stakeholder and Community Engagement Plan V0.6 Effective Date: 17/03/17 Page 40 of 42 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED.
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About the Project Owner • GWA currently owns and operates two wind farms in Australia: the Mortons Lane Solar Farm in Victoria and the Gullen Range Solar Farm in NSW and is constructing the White Rock Wind Farm as well as Moorabool Wind Farm in Victoria. • GWA may sell down part or all the solar farm ownership once built. Ongoing commitments of WRSF • To provide regular progress updates for the community. • To provide information about how to make an enquiry or complaint and keep the enquirer/complainant informed of our actions and response. • To provide up-to-date information on the construction impacts including traffic routes and timing, dust and noise impacts. About the WRSF project • The NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure approved the project on 14 June 2016 for the construction and operation of up to 20MW of solar panels in addition to related infrastructure. • All statutory approvals are in place and detailed construction planning can now commence. • The NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure will enforce and monitor all conditions of the approval and there will be a dedicated compliance officer at WRSF. The potential impacts of the WRSF • Environmental, noise and expected construction impacts have been assessed by the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure and are considered acceptable within the limits of the development consent and will be managed in accordance with the relevant state and federal standards specified therein. • WRSF acknowledges that there may be unforeseen impacts at all stages of the planning and construction process and is committed to minimising such impacts. • WRSF will be responsive and attentive to community impacts and maintain two-way communication around any issues and potential mitigation measures.
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