Wind Turbines

Lord Howe Island Board

Environmental Report Statement of Environmental Effects LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES

SEPTEMBER 2016

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 (t 02 4969 4910) bega nsw 2550 (t 02 6492 8333) bathurst nsw 2795 (m 0448 820 748)

Document Verification Project Title: LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES

Project Number: 6625 Project File Name: LHI ER Final 140916.docx Revision Date Prepared by (name) Reviewed by (name) Approved by (name) Final 8/09/168/ Paul McPherson Nick Graham-Higgs Nick Graham-Higgs 09/168/0 9/168/09/ 168/09/1 68/09/16 8/09/168/ 09/1614/ 09/16

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LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES

CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... viii 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT ...... 1 1.2 OVERVIEW OF THE PROPOSAL ...... 1 1.3 APPROVAL AND TENDER PROCESS ...... 2 1.4 BACKGROUND ...... 2 1.4.1 Lord Howe Island ...... 2 1.4.2 Hybrid Renewable Energy Project ...... 3 2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSAL ...... 5 2.1 OBJECTIVES ...... 5 2.2 DESIGN CRITERIA ...... 5 2.3 DEVELOPMENT SITE ...... 6 2.3.1 Location ...... 6 2.3.2 Site selection ...... 6 2.3.3 Site description ...... 8 2.4 PROPOSED INFRASTRUCTURE ...... 9 2.4.1 Wind turbines ...... 9 2.4.2 Transformers and cabling ...... 1 2.4.3 Access road ...... 2 2.4.4 Fencing and landscaping ...... 3 2.5 CONSTRUCTION ...... 3 2.5.1 Activities, plant and equipment ...... 3 2.5.2 Temporary facilities ...... 3 2.5.3 Materials and resources ...... 3 2.5.4 Construction access and materials delivery ...... 3 2.5.5 Site protection and rehabilitation ...... 4 2.5.6 Personnel and work hours ...... 4 2.5.7 Duration, timing and staging ...... 4 2.5.8 Indicative capital costs ...... 4 2.6 OPERATION ...... 5 2.6.1 Operation activities ...... 5 2.6.2 Periodic and high-wind shutdown ...... 5 2.6.3 Turbine lighting ...... 5

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2.6.4 Personnel and work hours ...... 5 2.7 REFURBISHMENT AND DECOMMISSIONING ...... 6 2.8 BIODIVERSITY OFFSET ...... 6 3 ALTERNATIVES AND JUSTIFICATION ...... 7 3.1 NEED FOR THE PROJECT ...... 7 3.2 TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY ...... 7 3.3 FUNDING AND FINANCIALS ...... 8 3.3.1 Funding arrangements ...... 8 3.3.2 Increasing distillate prices ...... 9 3.3.3 External costs of diesel use ...... 11 3.3.4 Effect of periodic shutdown to mitigate impacts ...... 11 3.3.5 Bird risk mitigation ...... 12 3.3.6 Social and economic impacts ...... 12 3.3.7 Financial snapshot ...... 13 3.4 PROJECT BENEFITS ...... 14 3.4.1 Benefits of the HREP ...... 14 3.5 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSAL ...... 14 3.5.1 Solar PV only ...... 16 3.5.2 Smaller turbines ...... 16 3.5.3 Vertical axis turbines ...... 17 3.5.4 Bladeless turbines ...... 17 3.5.5 Private solar generation ...... 17 3.5.6 Do nothing ...... 18 3.5.7 Preferred option ...... 18 3.6 PERMISSIBILITY ...... 18 3.7 JUSTIFICATION SUMMARY ...... 18 4 STATUTORY AND PLANNING CONTEXT ...... 19 4.1 COMMONWEALTH AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL ...... 19 4.1.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 ...... 19 4.1.2 EPBC Act Policy Statement 2.3 Wind Farm Industry ...... 21 4.1.3 Draft National Wind Farm Development Guidelines ...... 22 4.1.4 Renewable Energy (Electricity) Act 2000 ...... 23 4.1.5 Commonwealth wind farm bodies ...... 23 4.1.6 NHMRC wind farm research funding ...... 24

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4.1.7 Strategic Plan for the Lord Howe Island Group World Heritage Property ...... 24 4.2 NSW LEGISLATION AND POLICY ...... 25 4.2.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979...... 25 4.2.2 Lord Howe Island Act 1953 ...... 26 4.2.3 Lord Howe Island Regulation 2014 ...... 27 4.2.4 Roads Act 1993 ...... 27 4.2.5 National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 ...... 27 4.2.6 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 ...... 27 4.2.7 Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 ...... 27 4.2.8 Heritage Act 1977 ...... 28 4.2.9 Noxious Weeds Act 1993 ...... 28 4.2.10 Draft NSW Planning Guidelines: Wind Farms ...... 28 4.2.11 New Draft Wind Energy Planning Framework ...... 30 4.2.12 NSW Renewable Energy Action Plan ...... 35 4.2.13 Lord Howe Island Biodiversity Management Plan ...... 35 4.3 LOCAL GOVERNMENT PLANNING AND POLICY ...... 36 4.3.1 Lord Howe Island Local Environmental Plan 2010 ...... 36 4.3.2 Lord Howe Island Development Control Plan 2005 ...... 42 4.3.3 Lord Howe Island Biosecurity Strategy ...... 42 4.3.4 Lord Howe Island Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan ...... 42 4.4 OTHER STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES ...... 42 4.5 APPROVAL SUMMARY ...... 43 5 CONSULTATION ...... 44 5.1 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PLAN ...... 44 5.1.1 Objectives of the plan ...... 44 5.1.2 Community position on renewable energy ...... 45 5.1.3 Consultation visits ...... 45 5.1.4 Issues identified by the community ...... 46 5.1.5 Visitor Survey September-October 2015 ...... 47 5.1.6 Ongoing consultation ...... 48 5.2 SUSTAINABLE ENERGY WORKING GROUP (SEWG) ...... 49 6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 50 6.1 RISK ASSESSMENT ...... 50 6.2 HIGHER RISK FACTORS ...... 52

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6.2.1 Biodiversity ...... 52 6.2.2 Noise and vibration impacts ...... 64 6.2.3 Visual and landscape character impacts ...... 74 6.2.4 World Heritage ...... 83 6.2.5 National Heritage ...... 88 6.2.6 State and local heritage ...... 92 6.2.7 Social and economic impacts ...... 101 6.2.8 Cumulative impacts ...... 110 6.3 LOWER RISK FACTORS ...... 111 6.3.1 Aviation safety ...... 111 6.3.2 Traffic and access ...... 114 6.3.3 Tenure, land use and resources ...... 115 6.3.4 Physical natural values ...... 117 6.3.5 Waste ...... 121 7 REHABILITATION AND RESTORATION ...... 123 7.1 POST-WORKS REHABILITATION ...... 123 7.2 DEVELOPMENT SITE RESTORATION ...... 123 7.3 OFFSET SITE RESTORATION ...... 124 8 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ...... 125 8.1 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK ...... 125 8.2 ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT...... 126 8.3 CONSOLIDATED SAFEGUARDS ...... 127 9 ECOLOGICALLY SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT...... 141 10 CONCLUSIONS ...... 143 11 REFERENCES ...... 144 12 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ...... 151 APPENDIX A BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT ...... A-I APPENDIX B LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... B-II APPENDIX C SHADOW FLICKER ASSESSMENT ...... C-III APPENDIX D WIND TURBINE NOISE IMPACT ASSESSMENTS ...... D-I APPENDIX E AVIATION IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... E-I APPENDIX F ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE REPORT ...... F-I APPENDIX G COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PLAN ...... G-I APPENDIX H TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY STUDY ...... H-I

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TABLES

Table 2-1 Location and elevation of proposed wind turbine sites ...... 6

Table 2-2 Comparison of proposed turbine models ...... 9

Table 3-1 Projected wholesale distillate prices at Sydney (ex GST and excise), real $2015 (Jacobs 2015d) .. 7

Table 3-2 Costs per litre of diesel at Lord Howe Island Power Station, for diesel spills and emissions from combustion ...... 11

Table 3-3 The effect on diesel fuel use of overnight turbine shutdown for noise reduction ...... 12

Table 3-4 Snapshot of key elements of the financial model for the project ...... 13

Table 3-5 Comparison of electricity generation options ...... 16

Table 4-1 Summary of EPBC Act Protected Matters Report search results ...... 20

Table 4-2 Evaluation of the proposal against the aims of the Lord Howe Island LEP ...... 36

Table 4-3 Evaluation of the proposal against the objectives of Zone No. 7 Environment Protection...... 38

Table 4-4 Clause 11 matters and relationship to the proposal and Environmental Report (ER) ...... 39

Table 4-5 LEP Schedule 3 contents (summarised) and relevant section in Environmental Report for the proposal ...... 40

Table 4-6 Summary of approvals required for the HREP Stage 2 wind turbine proposal ...... 43

Table 5-1 Consultation visits and community engagement undertaken on each ...... 45

Table 6-1 Risk rating of environmental aspects...... 50

Table 6-2. Overall risk rating classes ...... 51

Table 6-3. Risk assessment of environmental issues ...... 51

Table 6-4 Subject threatened and migratory fauna species ...... 54

Table 6-5 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate flora and ecological community impacts ...... 59

Table 6-6 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate fauna impacts ...... 60

Table 6-7 Background noise and noise sources at representative receiver locations ...... 68

Table 6-8 XANT derived noise criteria and predicted noise levels at receiver locations ...... 70

Table 6-9 Vergnet low noise model derived noise criteria and predicted noise levels at receiver locations ...... 71

Table 6-10 Predicted low frequency (LCeq, 10 minute) noise levels against criteria ...... 71

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Table 6-11 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate noise and vibration impacts ...... 73

Table 6-12 Summary of the visual sensitivity, visual effect and visual impact for each viewpoint ...... 77

Table 6-13 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate visual and landscape impacts ...... 82

Table 6-14 Assessment of potential impacts to terrestrial World Heritage values ...... 85

Table 6-15 Assessment of potential impacts to National Heritage values against National Heritage criteria ...... 89

Table 6-16 Assessment of potential impacts to ‘Lord Howe Island Group’ State Heritage Register Statement of Significance and listing themes ...... 98

Table 6-17 Assessment of potential impacts to heritage items listed in Schedule 2 of the LEP ...... 99

Table 6-18 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate cultural heritage impacts ...... 100

Table 6-19 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate social and economic impacts ...... 109

Table 6-20 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate air safety impacts ...... 113

Table 6-21 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate traffic impacts ...... 115

Table 6-22 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate land use impacts ...... 116

Table 6-23 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate impacts to air, water and soil values ...... 120

Table 6-24 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate waste impacts ...... 122

FIGURES

Figure 1-1 Existing powerhouse to the north of the subject site ...... 3

Figure 1-2 Existing monitoring mast to the immediate south-east of the proposed turbine site ...... 3

Figure 2-1 Location of the proposed works on the island (circled red) (base image from DECC 2007) ...... 7

Figure 2-2 LEP zoning and portion 101 at the proposed development site (from LEP 2010)...... 8

Figure 2-3 Height comparison of the two turbine models ...... 10

Figure 2-4 Vergnet GEV MP‐C 30 turbines at Coral Bay, WA (Vergnet Wind Turbines 2015) ...... 10

Figure 2-5 XANT-21 100 kW turbine (image from http://www.3e.eu/XANT-21-mid-sized-wind-turbine- inaugurated/ ) ...... 10

Figure 2-6 Plan of proposed turbine infrastructure ...... 1

Figure 2-7 Profiles of proposed turbine infrastructure...... 2

Figure 2-8 Concrete pad and electrical kiosk installed for Vergnet turbine at Coral Bay, WA...... 1

Figure 2-9 Raised concrete guy footing (<1m high) installed for Vergnet turbine at Coral Bay...... 1

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Figure 2-10 Hinged base for raising and lowering Vergnet turbine at Coral Bay...... 1

Figure 2-11 Winch used to raise and lower Vergnet turbine at Coral Bay...... 1

Figure 2-12 Location of proposed turbine site (red) and biodiversity offset site (yellow) ...... 6

Figure 2-13 Biodiversity offset site to be revegetated and protected...... 6

Figure 3-1 EIA projections for Brent Crude (real $2013, USD/BBL) distillate1 ...... 10

Figure 3-2 Projected Sydney wholesale distillate price (excl excise and GST), real $2015 ...... 10

Figure 6-1 Proposed wind turbine site, looking north-west along the ridgeline, with pasture dominated by the exotic grass Kikuyu (Cenchrus clandestinus)...... 52

Figure 6-2 Existing access track, with disturbed Greybark-Blackbutt Closed Forest vegetation to be cleared to left (north-east) of the track...... 52

Figure 6-3 North-western end of existing access track entering from cleared paddock...... 54

Figure 6-4 South-eastern end of existing access track with dead Scalybark trees, one hollow-bearing...... 54

Figure 6-5 Vegetation clearing required for access track widening (red). Image: Google Earth ...... 56

Figure 6-6 Proposed turbine locations and relevant receivers (from Hutchison Weller 2016) ...... 67

Figure 6-7 Viewpoints used for the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment ...... 76

Figure 6-8 Example of photomontage existing view of the subject site from Thompson Lookout (PM03A)...... 79

Figure 6-9 Example of photomontage indicative view of the proposed wind turbines from Thompson Lookout (PM03B)...... 79

Figure 6-10 Example of photomontage zoomed and cropped image (PM03C)...... 79

Figure 6-11 Schedule 2 cultural heritage items located around the subject site ...... 95

Figure 6-12 CNS equipment installed near the proposed wind turbine site (detail from IDS 2016) ...... 113

Figure 6-13 Mapped geology of the study area and subject site (circled red). Source: Thompson et al. 1987...... 118

Figure 8-1 Post-approval Project Environmental Management Plan (PEMP) process (source: DIPNR 2004)...... 125

Figure 8-2 Adaptive management elements (OEH 2015) ...... 126

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Introduction

This Environmental Report has been prepared by NGH Environmental on behalf of the Lord Howe Island Board (the Board) to assess the environmental impacts of the proposed construction of two small to mid- sized wind turbines on Lord Howe Island. The Board is the proponent and the consent authority for the proposal. The report is intended to meet the assessment requirements of the Lord Howe Island Local Environmental Plan 2010, the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. The Lord Howe Island Group has outstanding scenic and biodiversity values which have been recognised by World Heritage listing. 75% of the main island belongs to the Permanent Park Preserve. The settlement area occupies 398 hectares in the central lowlands (27% of the island). The island is managed by the Board under a system of Crown leases. At present, electricity on the island is largely produced using generators running on imported diesel fuel. The Board has developed an Energy Supply Road Map (2011) and the Lord Howe Island Hybrid Renewable Energy Project (HREP) to transition to renewable energy sources and improve sustainability. A Technical Feasibility Study (Jacobs 2015b) concluded that solar only and solar plus wind options are both feasible complements to diesel generation, but solar plus wind offers a significantly larger reduction in diesel consumption. Stage 1 of the HREP is the solar farm and battery bank, which has already been approved by the Board and is scheduled for installation from early 2017. Stage 2 of the HREP is the current wind turbine proposal, to be installed in mid-late 2017, subject to approval. The hybrid system is to come into full operation in late 2017.

The proposal

The wind turbine proposal has the principal objectives of reducing diesel consumption and electricity generation costs. The project would also reduce carbon pollution from the burning of fossil fuels. The proposed infrastructure includes wind turbines and an access road to the site. Wind turbines It is proposed that two small to medium wind turbines be constructed at the locations indicated onError! Reference source not found. Figure 2-6. The turbines would have a maximum hub height of 55 metres and a maximum rotor diameter of 32 metres. Two commercially available turbine models within the specification range which meet the electricity generation requirements of the HREP have been used as examples for the assessment of environmental impacts; the mid-sized turbine Vergnet 200 kW GEV MP-C LnN (low noise) turbine and the smaller XANT 100 kW M21 Class 1A turbine model. The Environmental Report focuses on the installation of two Vergnet 200 kW GEV MP-C LnN (low noise) turbines as a notional preferred option, to provide a reference for the impact assessment. Other possible options/configurations include:  one Vergnet 200 kW GEV MP-C LnN turbine  two XANT 100 kW M21 Class 1A turbines. Subject to project approval, the turbine model and number (one or two) would be selected following the competitive tender process.

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The assessment in this Environmental Report focuses on the two 200 kW turbine proposal, but also considers the impacts of the other two options. Where relevant, any differences between the options in the type or extent of impact are identified. The turbines consist of a tower, a nacelle housing the generator, and rotor blades. The Vergnet turbine has a hub height of 55 metres and blade length options of 15 or 16 metres. The XANT model has a 31.8 metre hub height and 10.5 metre blade length. Both turbines would have galvanised or painted white or grey steel tube towers mounted on concrete foundation pads and secured using wire cable guys. Both turbine models can be lowered manually for maintenance and protection during very strong winds. The turbines would automatically shut down when winds speeds are too low or too high for safe and effective operation. The turbines would be transported in standard 12 metre containers, and can be erected using jib or winch systems without the need for a crane.

Figure ES-1 Vergnet GEV MP‐C 30 turbines at Figure ES-2 XANT-21 100 kW turbine (image from Coral Bay, WA (Vergnet Wind Turbines 2015) )

Access road

A 3.5 metre wide sealed access road within a 9 metre wide cleared corridor would be constructed between the solar farm and the turbine sites. An existing 35 metre long track section in an LEP road reserve would need to be widened, removing up to

200m2 of native vegetation. This track would be bitumen sealed and extended into the paddock to the turbine sites.

Biodiversity offset Figure ES-3 North end of access track section The proposal includes the restoration of a disturbed area of through native vegetation. natural forest close to the development site to offset vegetation clearing. The offset proposal is detailed in Appendix G of the Biodiversity Assessment. The offset would restore approximately 1700m2 of Greybark-Blackbutt Closed Forest to offset the (up to) 200 m2 of clearing required to widen the access road to the turbine site.

Benefits and justification The long term benefits of the project include:  an estimated reduction in annual diesel fuel consumption of up to 66%, with reduced fuel costs and increased energy self-sufficiency for the island  reduced emissions of greenhouse gas and other pollutants  reduced risk of diesel spillage into the Lagoon and on the island

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 branding opportunities for the island in terms of sustainability  less intensive and less costly maintenance requirements. Table ES-1 below compares the fuel savings of the three wind turbine options, as well as the solar only and the no status quo/do nothing alternatives. The proposed option (highlighted in the table) provides substantially better fuel savings and renewable energy penetration than the alternatives.

Table ES-1 Comparison of electricity generation options

Annual Fuel savings Annual Diesel Cost2 ($ million Option (litres) Fuel savings % Renewable % running (hrs) ) 120kW private solar (status quo) 32,118 6% 6% 12,798

Solar 550 kW1, 3 192,512 36% 35% 8,670 6.60 1 x Vergnet 200 kW1 284,652 53% 53% 7,065 8.28 2 x Vergnet 200 kW1 359,895 66% 67% 5,000 9.21 2 x XANT 100 kW (31.8m)1 281,029 52% 52% 7,185 7.55

1 Based on 120kW of private solar installed and a 400/800 kW/kWh battery. 2 Capital cost $ million AUD based on estimates provided by suppliers in 2015. Excludes $1.14m of pre-construction costs. 3 Potential solar panel configuration if no wind turbines are constructed.

The proposal site

The proposed wind turbine site (the ‘subject site’) is located in the central lowlands and hills of the island, southeast of the existing diesel powerhouse and approximately 800 metres north of the airport; refer Figure 2-1. The site is 280 metres from the nearest residential property and 480 metres from the nearest tourist accommodation. The location of the turbines, cabling, access road and other infrastructure at the site is shown on Figure 2-6Error! Reference source not found.. The site consists of a cleared 1.5 hectare paddock, located on a moderate gradient midslope of a ridgeline rising to the south toward Transit Hill. The site is used for dairy cattle grazing, although the soils are relatively poor and the site is not prime agricultural land (LHIB 2015). The site is on basalt geology, with shallow soil and areas of outcropping rock. The groundcover in the paddock is largely exotic pasture grasses and weeds. The paddock is surrounded by native closed forest vegetation. The turbine site (Special Lease Portion 101) is almost surrounded by the Permanent Park Preserve. Access to the subject site would use part of an existing road reserve and track passing through Portion 230 to the Portion 101 turbine paddock; refer Figure 2-2. The existing and proposed track alignment does not encroach on the Permanent Park Preserve. The proposal would extend the existing track into Portion 101 to access the turbine sites. The turbine paddock and access track section are included in Local Environmental Plan Zone 7 Environmental Protection. Portion 101 currently accommodates the monitoring mast at the southern end of the site. Portions 101 and 230 also contain Significant Native Vegetation mapped under clause 2 (3) (c) of the LEP, outside the subject site. The proposed development site was selected because it is close to the powerhouse and solar farm, in an elevated position to access to higher wind speeds, on a north facing aspect with no shading issues and is one of the least visible pieces of cleared, elevated land on the island. Wind monitoring indicates that the

6625 Final x LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES site has a good wind resource with average wind speeds at the proposed hub height in the order of 7.7m/s (Jacobs 2015b).

Figure ES-4 Proposed wind turbine site, looking north-west along the ridgeline, with Kikuyu pasture.

Key impacts and their management Biodiversity A detailed Biodiversity Assessment has been prepared for the project, incorporating specialist studies for birds (O’Neill and Carlile 2016, Ambrose Ecological Services 2016) and bats (Fly By Night Bat Surveys 2016). The proposed wind turbine site carries exotic pasture grasses, clovers and weeds, with few native species. The site has minimal habitat value, although bats, seabirds and forest birds use the airspace above the paddock. Forest birds include the endemic and threatened Lord Howe Island Currawong, Lord Howe Silvereye and Lord Howe Golden Whistler. Bird surveys recorded 10 threatened bird species and 7 listed migratory bird species flying across the cleared paddock. The great majority of flights were 12 metres or less above the ground, below the swept path of the turbines. The proposal has the potential to affect biodiversity through habitat loss, alienation and fragmentation, and bladestrike impacts on birds and bats. The small area of vegetation to be cleared to improve access to the site is Greybark-Blackbutt Closed Forest, a widespread but heavily cleared lowland community. The vegetation at the access track site is a diverse and common assemblage of trees and medium-tall shrubs. The flora species affected by the proposed clearing are either community dominants or locally common species, including endemics. The proposed works would not significantly affect the composition of plant and animal species at the local scale, or significantly add to existing habitat fragmentation at the site. The clearing would be adequately offset by the restoration of similar vegetation close to the site. No threatened flora species or communities would be affected. The principal operational impacts of the proposed wind farm are associated with bladestrike risks to birds and bats. The proposal has the potential to affect 7 seabird species, 7 terrestrial bird species and their habitats, 2 migratory shorebirds, one heron species and one microbat species. Based on the bird survey results, the proposed Vergnet turbines have the lowest collision risk of the two turbine models. Forest birds and the Large Forest Bat are unlikely to be significantly impacted because of the turbine height. Seabirds have potential to be affected and a range of mitigation measures would be implemented to ensure that bladestrike or habitat utilisation impacts do not significantly affect local populations. Seven-part tests of significance for NSW threatened species and Assessments of Significance for Commonwealth-listed threatened and migratory species conclude that the proposal would not result in

6625 Final xi LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES significant impact to these species, subject to the implementation of avoidance, mitigation and adaptive management measures identified in the Environmental Report. While neither the Vergnet nor XANT turbine options are likely to lead to the extinction of locally viable bird populations or affect their conservation status, the XANT turbine has greater potential for impact because of the lower rotor height. The adoption of one of the Vergnet turbine options is recommended to minimise risks to threatened birds. Other mitigation measures would include evening shutdown of turbines during the Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding season and an Adaptive Management Plan with a range of additional measures if impacts exceed expectations. Noise The proposed works are considered unlikely to result in unacceptable amenity impacts caused by noise produced during the construction period. Works would be confined to daylight hours. Noise levels for the operating Vergnet and XANT turbine options are predicted to be below NSW Guidelines noise criteria at all receiver locations at all times. While the turbines may be audible at some receiver locations, the most stringent criteria (for the night period) are not likely to be exceeded and the risk of adverse amenity impact is low. Analyses of tonal noise and low frequency noise and infrasound characteristics using manufacturer’s data and measured turbine noise at an existing facility with three operating Vergnet MP-C (non-acoustically treated) turbines indicated no tonal noise and low frequency characteristics. The monitoring also found that while the operating turbines did generate a small amount of infrasound, the contribution of the turbines to ambient infrasound was negligible in comparison with infrasound generated by environmental sources such as wind and ocean waves at the Coral Bay site. All measured infrasound was found to be less than the most stringent thresholds of human perception, meaning that infrasound was neither audible nor physiologically perceptible. Visual and landscape character Lord Howe Island is recognised as a World Heritage property for its scenic values, comprising a varied landscape of mountains, valleys, hills, lowlands and sea-cliffs. The visual sensitivity of the assessed viewpoints on the island is high. The Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) (Moir Landscape Architecture 2016) concluded that the proposed turbines would have a moderate visual impact within the local context. When viewed from a distance, the proposed wind turbines would form only a small element in the overall view, which would remain dominated by the natural features which characterise the island. Views of the proposal site are likely to be limited in the settlement area, with the highest visual impact from cleared areas close to the north and east of the turbines. The settlement area is a landscape modified by development and the proposed wind turbines would be similar or smaller in scale compared to existing infrastructure elements. While the wind turbines would alter the existing visual character of the area to some degree, the unique visual features which characterise Lord Howe Island would remain the dominant elements in the landscape. The wind turbines would be a temporary element with little to no long term impact on the landscape. A comparative assessment of the various turbine model and layout options found that the visual effect does not vary greatly between the options.

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World Heritage The Lord Howe Island Group was listed under the following World Heritage criteria: (vii) to contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance; (x) to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation. The Lord Howe Island World Heritage Property Strategic Plan (LHIB 2010) elaborates on the key World Heritage values in more detail. The visual and landscape character impacts of the proposal have been assessed in a specialist study, which concludes that the proposal is not likely to significantly affect the visual or scenic values of the island. Biodiversity impacts have been assessed in a series of specialist studies for the project. The studies, and the Assessments of Significance, conclude that the proposal would not significantly affect biodiversity values, including threatened communities and endemic, threatened and migratory species. The proposal would provide offsetting benefits for the World Heritage property in terms of vegetation restoration, and reduced air pollution, carbon emissions and fuel spillage risks. National Heritage The National Heritage listing encompasses biodiversity, historic and cultural values. In relation to biodiversity, the assessment of impacts to World Heritage values are also relevant to National Heritage values and the conclusions regarding impact significance also apply. The proposal would not diminish the research or education opportunities available at the site or in the study area. In relation to wilderness, aesthetic, or other rare or unique environment values, the turbines would be visible but would not be incongruous or significantly diminish the aesthetic character and scenic values of the island group. The turbines may be audible from some locations in the settlement at certain times, but noise emissions would meet current amenity guidelines and are not expected to significantly affect the aesthetic values of the island. State and local heritage The Lord Howe Island Group is listed in the State Heritage Register as a Landscape – cultural item. The proposed turbines would not be incongruous within the local landscape context, which includes human elements such as the airport, settlement buildings and other electricity generation infrastructure. The proposal is consistent with the island’s cultural landscape by reflecting adaptability and self-reliance in the island population, and the technology and environmental imperatives that characterise the early 21st century. The World Heritage and National Heritage assessments are also relevant for the State-significant State Heritage Register item ‘Lord Howe Island Group’. There are 20 local heritage items listed in the Local Environmental Plan. The proposal is sited outside the curtilage of the Schedule 2 heritage items and would not adversely affect their historical significance or associative values. The two items closest to the subject site are Palmhaven (Garton house) and the Family cemetery at ‘Pinetrees’. The proposal has the potential to affect these items through visual and noise impacts. Based on the results of the visual and noise assessments, and assessments against relevant heritage criteria, the proposal is not considered likely to adversely affect these local heritage values.

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Social and economic impacts Based on community surveys and studies conducted on the island and elsewhere, the proposal is not likely to significantly affect community well-being provided visual, noise and wildlife impacts can be demonstrated to be acceptable and the approval process is seen to be open, objective and participatory. The available evidence and studies conducted for the project indicate that the health and well-being impacts of noise and low frequency sound, electromagnetic fields (EMF), shadow flicker and risks of structural failure and fire are not likely to be significant. Surveys and consultations show that the proposal is not likely to have a significant effect on tourism visitation and economic activity. Studies in Australia and overseas also suggest that the proposal is unlikely to affect land values on the island. The proposal is intended to have a positive impact on island amenity over the longer term, and reduce the potential for significant increases in electricity prices caused by diesel price increases. Transportation of freight to the island via shipping will be affected because of the reduced revenue for the shipping contractor, due to the lower volumes of diesel consumed by the Board at the powerhouse. The risk of increased electricity prices from increasing diesel prices is considered to be greater than the risk of increased sea freight prices.

Conclusion

Lord Howe Island has outstanding natural and scenic values and a unique social and cultural setting. The proposed wind turbines would be unlikely to significantly affect biodiversity values through vegetation clearing, habitat fragmentation, bird and bat bladestrike or interference with habitat use. The proposal would introduce new visual elements within a local cultural landscape which incorporates modern human settlement. Visual and landscape impacts are considered to be acceptable in this context, and consistent with a sustainable management theme. Turbine noise is unlikely to significantly affect the amenity or cultural aesthetics of neighbouring areas on the island. The proposal would not be likely to significantly affect the World Heritage, National Heritage or state and locally significant cultural heritage values of the island. The key scenic, aesthetic, biodiversity and historical values underpinning these listings would not be removed or degraded by the proposal. Environmental risks and unexpected impacts can be adequately managed using an adaptive approach and a range of identified contingency measures. The project is highly reversible and would not result in permanent losses or close off any future land use options. The proposal has clear environmental, social and economic benefits and is considered to be ecologically sustainable.

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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT

1.2 OVERVIEW OF THE PROPOSAL

It is proposed that two 200 kW wind turbines be constructed at the locations indicated on Figure 2-6. Error! Reference source not found.Two other options are also available; one 200 kW turbine and two 100 kW turbines. The wind turbines would be constructed adjacent to the approved stage 1 solar farm and existing powerhouse. The cleared site was selected to provide suitable wind exposure, minimise visual impact and enable cost effective access and connection to the grid. An existing track would be widened and extended to access the site. The wind turbine site is 280 metres from the nearest residential property and 480 metres from the nearest tourist accommodation. A number of assessments and plans have been completed for the HREP, including:

 a Geotechnical Investigation Report (Jacobs 2015a)  a Technical Feasibility Study (Jacobs 2015b, Appendix H)  an Environmental Report for the Stage 1 solar farm (Jacobs 2015c)  a Community Engagement Plan (Jacobs 2016a, Appendix G). The following assessments have been completed for this wind turbines component of the HREP:

 a Wind Turbine Generator Noise Impact Assessment (Hutchison Weller 2016a, Appendix D)  Coral Bay Wind Turbine Generators Noise Investigation (Hutchison Weller 2016b, Appendix D)  A Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (Moir Landscape Architects 2016, Appendix B)  A Shadow Flicker Assessment (Fulcrum 3D 2016, Appendix C)  an Aviation Impact Statement (The Airport Group 2015, Appendix E)  Communications Navigation Surveillance impact analysis for Airservices Australia infrastructure (IDS 2016, Appendix F)

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 avifauna monitoring and assessment reports (O’Neill and Carlile 2016, Ambrose Ecological Services 2016, Appendix A)  a bat monitoring report (Fly By Night Bat Surveys 2016, Appendix A).

1.3 APPROVAL AND TENDER PROCESS

The Environmental Report (ER) including separate biodiversity, aviation, noise and visual assessments is to be submitted to the Board for consideration in September 2016, as part of a Development Application (DA). As is normal for the Board, the DA will be referred to an independent consultant planner for assessment. The Board would also advertise the DA through a post box drop to all residents and on the Board’s website, and place relevant documentation on public exhibition for an extended period of four weeks. The consultant planner would prepare an assessment report, incorporating public submissions and a recommendation for the consideration of the seven member Board. Board staff and possibly external authorities would review parts of the DA and ER. The Board would consider the project at a quarterly meeting, planned for late November 2016. In parallel with the Board approval process, a referral to the Commonwealth Government would be submitted to determine whether the project requires approval under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). Community consultation and information would continue throughout the approval process, as detailed in the Community Engagement Plan (Jacobs 2016a, Appendix G); refer section 5. Subject to project approval, the Board would advertise an open tender through the NSW e-tendering website for the supply and installation of the turbine(s). Similar to other large projects on the island, a Tender Evaluation Committee would be established, comprising the Board’s CEO and Project Manager, and Jacobs as the Owner’s Engineer. Following tender evaluations and negotiations, the tender recommendation would be forwarded to the NSW Minister for the Environment for approval.

1.4 BACKGROUND

1.4.1 Lord Howe Island The Lord Howe Island Group is located 760 kilometres north east of Sydney and comprises the main island and 27 smaller islets and rocks. The main island is 12 kilometres long, 1–2.8 kilometres wide and occupies 1,455 hectares. The southern part of the island is rugged with peaks ranging up to 875 metres ASL. Most of the island carries native forest. LHI has a high degree of flora and fauna endemism, particularly among plants and invertebrates. Many species are listed as threatened under NSW and Commonwealth legislation. Significant features also include landscape and geological values, the world's southernmost barrier coral reef, nesting seabirds and a rich historical and cultural heritage. Approximately 75% of the main island plus all outlying islands, islets and rocks within the Lord Howe Group form part of the Permanent Park Preserve. The LHI Marine Park extends 12 nautical miles around the island. The Lord Howe Island Group has been placed on the Register of the National Estate and was listed as a World Heritage Area in 1982. Lord Howe Island was settled in 1833 and the resident population is currently around 360, restricted to 398 hectares in the central lowlands. The island economy is now based on tourism, with around 16,000 tourists visiting the island each year and a maximum of 400 at any time. All land on the island is vested in the Crown, and is administered by the Lord Howe Island Board under a leasing system. The Board is also

6625 Final 2 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES responsible for other local government functions on the island, including the airport, the wharf, waste management services, roads, tourism infrastructure, public buildings, wastewater oversight and the regulation, generation and supply of electricity. The Board reports to the NSW Government and comprises four Islanders elected by the local community and three members appointed by a NSW Government Minister. Approximately 39 full time equivalent staff are employed by the Board. The island falls within the Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA) Region (Lord Howe Island sub-region) and the IBRA7 Pacific Subtropical Islands Bioregion.

Figure 1-1 Existing powerhouse to the north of the Figure 1-2 Existing monitoring mast to the immediate subject site south-east of the proposed turbine site

1.4.2 Hybrid Renewable Energy Project The Lord Howe Island Board is responsible for electricity generation on the island. Challenges include remoteness, high materials transport costs, the small population and the lack of a property rates system. Electricity is currently supplied using three 300kW MTU Detroit Series 60 diesel generating units located in a powerhouse adjacent to the subject site. A 425 kW MTU Detroit Series 70 diesel generating unit, located at the southern end of the settlement area near Capella, provides backup power in the event of major failure of the Series 60 generators. Fuel is typically delivered fortnightly as sea freight, drawn from the MV Island Trader’s fuel tanks, and into portable 1,300 litre stainless steel tanks. The portable tanks are transported to the powerhouse and decanted into the above ground fuel storage. The island currently consumes around 540,000 litres of diesel each year for power generation. The Board has developed the Hybrid Renewable Energy Project (HREP) in response to a NSW Government recommendation in 2005 to consider renewable energy sources as a way of reducing reliance on imported diesel for electricity generation. The Board’s Energy Supply Road Map (2011) was developed with assistance of the community-based Sustainable Energy Working Group to guide the transition to a hybrid generation system. The HREP is the major project to deliver on the Road Map. Modelling in the Road Map concluded that two Vergnet wind turbines, with 200kW of community-based solar PV and 200kW of private PV solar would be able to produce close to 70% renewable penetration. The estimated $10.3 million cost of the HREP would be met using a $4 million Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) grant and a $5.9 million loan from NSW Treasury, with repayments to be made from savings in diesel consumption. The Board will contribute approximately $450,000 of cash and in-kind, labour and equipment during development and construction. Jacobs has been appointed Owner’s Engineer for the project to provide engineering investigation and design, environmental, contracting, project management and financial management services.

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The HREP comprises a solar farm, 1 to 2 wind turbines and battery storage, with associated cabling, access roads and ancillary works. The project is being implemented in two stages: Stage 1 Ground-mounted solar panel arrays and battery storage, with road access, fibre optic cabling, underground high voltage and low voltage electrical cabling and associated works. Approved in November 2015. Stage 2 The current proposal for wind turbines, with road access from the solar farm site, fibre optic cabling, underground high voltage and low voltage electrical cabling and associated works. The use of both wind and solar sources offers a significantly larger reduction in fuel consumption than solar alone, with the wind generation component providing by far the greatest contribution to fuel savings (Jacobs 2015b). A 45 metre high monitoring mast was erected at the site in November 2014 to collect wind and solar resource data. The mast will remain at the site until at least two years after the HREP is fully commissioned. The HREP stage 1 solar component was approved on 24 November 2015, and comprises:

 installation of up to one megawatt of ground mounted solar photovoltaic panels  construction of a sealed access road from an existing road near the powerhouse, approximately 440 metres long and 3.5 metres wide  construction of an additional building near the powerhouse to house the battery storage (nominal 400kW/400kWh, or optimised based on the tendered design ) and other equipment  installation of buried communications cable and high voltage cable joining the solar photovoltaic panels to the powerhouse  ancillary works potentially including permanent fencing around the solar panels. The solar component of the project was referred to the Commonwealth and deemed not to be a Controlled Action under the EPBC Act. The solar, battery and control system project, is scheduled for commencement in early 2017 and completion in mid-2017. Subject to approval, the wind turbines are to be constructed in mid to late 2017 and the hybrid system would become fully operational in late 2017. If the turbine proposal is approved, the solar panels are most likely to be installed in a single block in Portion 230 (solar area A in Figure 2-6Error! Reference source not found.). If the turbines are not constructed, the panels may be installed in two blocks, one in Portion 230 and one on Portion 101 (solar area A and C in Figure 2-6Error! Reference source not found.).

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2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSAL

2.1 OBJECTIVES

The LHI Hybrid Renewable Energy Project (HREP) aims to reduce diesel consumption and reduce the costs associated with electricity generation on the island. The specific objectives of the HREP are listed below in order of importance (Jacobs 2016b): 1. Achieve a more environmentally sustainable electricity generation for the Lord Howe Island community whilst maintaining the current high level quality of supply. 2. Improve the Lord Howe Island community’s self-sufficiency by reducing the island’s reliance on imported diesel fuel and NSW Government funding used for electricity supply. 3. Protect the island’s World Heritage and tourism values by reducing the risk of a fuel spill from the importation of diesel fuel and reducing the impacts (atmospheric pollution, traffic and noise of the diesel powerhouse. 4. Seek the lowest long term cost of energy production and reduce the potential for rises (diesel price shock) in the cost of energy in the event that the diesel fuel price escalates significantly. 5. Build on the current high levels of community support and provide a pathway through which other technologies such as electrical vehicles can be introduced to support the local community. 6. Install a system that can still be maintained and operated by the LHIB electricity generation team with minimal external input for regular operation and maintenance. 7. Provide a show case of what is possible in a remote community when wind, solar PV and storage are integrated.

2.2 DESIGN CRITERIA

The following preliminary design constraints and criteria for the project were identified in the Technical Feasibility Study completed in December 2015 (Jacobs 2015b, Appendix H):  no clearing of any existing remnant native vegetation, except for road access to the wind turbine site  minimise the impact to the highest value agricultural grazing and cropping land, and minimise the reduction in grazing land  avoidance of low lying areas prone to flooding  consideration of Airservices Australia assets  all connections between equipment to be underground with the possible exception of the solar panel connections between frames  transformer sizes and arrangements selected to maximise inter-changeability of equipment in the event of a failure  equipment should be sized to suit the island’s small 25 tonne crane  DC-based equipment and associated convertors/inverters are isolated from other equipment via a step up transformer. This should assist in trapping harmonics that might interfere with other equipment

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 standard island voltage ratings selected wherever possible  ease of operation and isolation  minimal disruption to the existing island operation of the electrical network when the system is being constructed  suitability for various contractual models  constructed roads will be bitumen seal black top to minimise erosion and maintenance. An additional planning and design consideration was the need to minimize impacts to the biodiversity, heritage and social values of the island.

2.3 DEVELOPMENT SITE

2.3.1 Location The proposed wind turbine site is located in the central lowlands and hills of the island, southeast of the existing diesel powerhouse and approximately 800 metres north of the airport; refer Figure 2-1. The location of the turbines, cabling, access road and other infrastructure at the site, as well as the stage 1 solar farm, is shown on Figure 2-6Error! Reference source not found.. If the turbine proposal is approved, the panels are most likely to be installed in a single block in Portion 230, and no panels are likely to be required in the Portion 101 paddock. Map references and elevations for the proposed turbine sites are provided in Table 2-1. The elevations are based on LIDAR data and there may be a minor discrepancy with actual on-ground levels. To account for potential errors in the LIDAR ground survey data, the precise turbine location may vary by up to 20 metres from the turbine locations indicated in the Environmental Report. Any variation in turbine position would not result in impacts which are different or greater than the impacts identified in this Environmental Report.

Table 2-1 Location and elevation of proposed wind turbine sites

Turbine position Map reference (GDA) Elevation (AHD) WTG1 507072 6511680 61.2 metres WTG2 507157 6511661 70.1 metres

2.3.2 Site selection The proposed development site was selected for the following key reasons:  close proximity to the powerhouse  elevated position to access higher wind speeds  north facing position with no shading issues to maximise solar energy output  community preference as one of the least visible pieces of cleared, elevated land on the island (Jacobs 2016a). The Technical Feasibility Study for the project (Jacobs 2015b) assessed the results of the wind monitoring conducted at the site and long term data from the LHI airport meteorological station. The results indicate that the site has a good wind resource with average wind speeds at the proposed hub height in the order of 7.7m/s.

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Figure 2-1 Location of the proposed works on the island (circled red) (base image from DECC 2007)

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2.3.3 Site description The proposed turbine site consists of a cleared 1.5 hectare paddock, located on a moderate gradient midslope of a ridgeline rising to the south toward Transit Hill (135 metres elevation). The site is primarily used for dairy cattle grazing, although the soils are relatively poor and the site is not prime agricultural land (LHIB 2015). The site is on basalt geology, with shallow soil and areas of outcropping rock. The groundcover in the paddock is largely exotic pasture grasses and weeds. The paddock is surrounded by native closed forest vegetation. The turbine site (Special Lease Portion 101) is almost surrounded by the Permanent Park Preserve (refer Figure 2-1 and Figure 2-2). Access to the subject site would use part of a road reserve and existing track passing through Portion 230 to the Portion 101 turbine paddock; refer Figure 2-2. The proposal would extend the existing track into Portion 101 to provide access to the turbine sites. The turbine paddock and access track section are included in LEP Zone 7 Environmental Protection; refer Figure 2-2. The use of the road would be restricted to the landowner and Board staff.

Figure 2-2 LEP zoning and portion 101 at the proposed development site (from LEP 2010)

Portion 101 currently accommodates the monitoring mast at the south-eastern end of the site. The lessee has agreed to the use of the paddock for the wind turbines. The proposed turbine, solar array and powerhouse allotment would be surveyed by a registered surveyor and a linen plan of subdivision prepared. The linen plan of subdivision is to be lodged with the Board for signature by an authorised officer prior to being registered with the Land Titles Office. The linen plan of subdivision is to include a road reserve or right of way benefitting the Board and AirServices Australia over the final approved access. The easement must be registered prior to the operation of the solar array and wind turbines.

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The existing unformed road reserve which runs in a south –easterly direction from 'Slippery Alley' across Portion 230 to Portion 101 will be closed in accordance with the Roads Act. Portions 101 and 230 also contain significant native vegetation mapped under clause 2 (3) (c) of the LEP, outside the subject site (refer section 6.2.1 and Appendix A.

2.4 PROPOSED INFRASTRUCTURE

2.4.1 Wind turbines

It is proposed that two small to medium wind turbines be constructed at the locations indicated on Figure 2-6Error! Reference source not found.. The turbines would have a maximum hub height of 55 metres and a maximum rotor diameter of 32 metres. Two commercially available turbine models within the specification range which meet the electricity generation requirements of the HREP have been used as examples for the assessment of environmental impacts. The Vergnet 200 kW GEV MP-C LnN (low noise) turbine is a mid-sized turbine at the upper end of the proposed size range. The XANT 100 kW M21 Class 1A is a turbine at the lower end. A comparison of the two turbine models is provided in Error! Reference source not found.Table 2-2 below.Error! Reference source not found. Figure 2-3 shows the comparative height of each turbine model. The Environmental Report focuses on the installation of two Vergnet 200 kW GEV MP-C LnN (low noise) turbines as a notional preferred option, to provide a reference for the impact assessment. Other possible options and configurations include:  one Vergnet 200 kW GEV MP-C LnN turbine  two XANT 100 kW M21 Class 1A turbines. Subject to project approval, the turbine model and number (one or two) would be selected following the competitive tender process.

Table 2-2 Comparison of proposed turbine models

Turbine Hub height Blade length Max tip height Features Downwind, two blade, pitch regulated Vergnet 200 kW turbine. Cut in speed 3.5 m/s, cut out speed 55m 15m or 16m 71m 25 m/s. Must be lowered during extreme GEV MP-C LnN winds (>30-42.5 m/s, 115-153 km/hr). Noise insulated nacelle and gearbox.

XANT 21 100 kW Downwind, three blade, variable speed 31.8m 10.5m 42.3m turbine. Cut in speed 3 m/s, cut out speed 20 M21 Class 1A m/s. Survival wind speed 70 m/s (252 km/hr).

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Where there are differences between the above turbine options in the type or extent of environmental impact, these are identified in the report. Where alternative turbines are proposed, an environmental risk assessment would be completed to ensure that the impact of alternative turbines would not exceed those of the turbines used as examples for the assessment of environmental impacts.

Hub height: 31.8 m

Hub height: 55 m

Two 200 kW Vergnet One Vergnet Two 100 kW XANT

Figure 2-3 Height comparison of the two turbine models

The turbine tower would be a galvanised or white or grey painted steel tube, with a nacelle housing the generator on top of the tower. Both turbine models can be lowered manually for maintenance and protection during very strong winds. The turbines would automatically shut down when winds speeds are too low or too high for safe and effective operation (refer section 2.6.2). The turbines would be transported to the island in standard 12 metre containers, and can be erected using jib or winch systems without the without the need for a crane (Figure 2-10 and Figure 2-11).

Figure 2-4 Vergnet GEV MP‐C 30 turbines at Coral Figure 2-5 XANT-21 100 kW turbine (image from Bay, WA (Vergnet Wind Turbines 2015) http://www.3e.eu/XANT-21-mid-sized-wind- turbine-inaugurated/ )

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Figure 2-6 Plan of proposed turbine infrastructure

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Figure 2-7 Profiles of proposed turbine infrastructure

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Turbine foundations and supports The turbine towers would be mounted on concrete foundation pads (Figure 2-8) and secured using three wire cable guys attached to ground anchors. The arrangement of the turbine footings has been configured to minimise excavations needed to install the footings for the gin pole winch anchor, turbine tower pivot, tower cradle (to support the turbine lying down) and the guy wire anchors. Depending on the final design, the guy anchors are likely to require the excavation of material to bedrock in areas 4 metres square, requiring removal and redistribution as fill of an estimated 40 m3 of material. Guy supports along the ridge crest (east-west axis) would be attached at or near ground level in bedrock anchors or steel rods cast in concrete footings (Figure 2-9). Guy supports to the sides of the ridge (north- south axis) would need to be attached to raised steel or concrete posts to achieve the required attachment level. The guy posts would range from 4.15 to 2.16 metres in height and would either be freestanding or braced. Any bracing for the posts would use rigid members rather than guy wires. Profiles for the turbines and guy supports are shown on Figure 2-6.

Figure 2-8 Concrete pad and electrical kiosk Figure 2-9 Raised concrete guy footing (<1m high) installed for Vergnet turbine at Coral Bay, WA. installed for Vergnet turbine at Coral Bay.

Figure 2-10 Hinged base for raising and lowering Figure 2-11 Winch used to raise and lower Vergnet Vergnet turbine at Coral Bay. turbine at Coral Bay.

2.4.2 Transformers and cabling Each turbine would be installed with a small kiosk transformer raising the output of the turbine from 400V to 6.6kV (Jacobs 2016b); refer Error! Reference source not found. and Figure 2-8. Underground optical fibre cabling would be installed between the monitoring mast, turbine kiosks and the solar farm (approximately 280 metres) to meet Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) communication

6625 Final 1 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES requirements. Underground 6.6kV high voltage cabling would be installed between the kiosks and the solar farm (approximately 170 metres). The cabling within the solar farm and between the solar farm and the powerhouse is covered by the solar farm approval. The underground cabling to the solar farm area would follow the alignment of the access road. Within the turbine paddock, cabling would be installed in exotic pasture, which would be reinstated following the works. Trenches would be in the order of 1000 to 1200 mm deep (Jacobs 2016a) and 600 mm wide. Bedding sand would be placed under, around and above the cabling and the trench would be backfilled with existing fill with cable markers in the trench. Direct buried cables may be required to have a nylon jacket for termite protection (Jacobs 2015c).

2.4.3 Access road A 3.5 metre wide sealed access road with 1 metre wide shoulders within a 9 metre wide clear corridor would be constructed between the stage 1 solar farm on Portion 230 and the turbine sites on Portion 101. The road route would use an existing 50 metre long track in a road reserve passing through a narrow belt of native vegetation from Portion 230 to the Portion 101 turbine paddock; refer Figure 2-2. The construction of the access road for the solar farm is covered by the solar farm approval. Approximately 35 metres of this track section would need to be widened to allow access by construction vehicles. The existing and proposed track alignment does not encroach on the Permanent Park Preserve, located south of the track. The proposal would extend the existing track into the Portion 101 paddock for a further 200 metres to access the turbine sites. The location of the proposed track is indicated on Error! Reference source not found.Figure 2-6. The native vegetation clearing would be offset by restoration works located close to the subject site (refer section 6.2.1). The track would be bitumen sealed and used primarily to enable access for construction plant and future light vehicle access for maintenance and monitoring (Jacobs 2015a), and for leaseholder access for farm use. The following treatments have been recommended in the geotechnical study conducted for the project (Jacobs 2015a):  all areas are to be stripped of all topsoil and organic matter (if present) which may prevent subsequent layers of engineered materials achieving the specified level of compaction  compact and proof roll all exposed soil surfaces with a minimum of 8 passes of a roller of at least 5 tonnes per metre width static weight capacity to detect any soft or compressible areas (or other suitable site equipment such as loaded dump truck). If any unacceptable materials or excessive heaving is found, then they should be excavated and replaced with a compacted engineered fill  engineered fill should be placed in layers of no more than 250 mm loose thickness and compacted to 98% of the standard maximum dry density (SMDD), within -2% to +2% of the optimum moisture content (OMC). A bitumen seal has been chosen to minimise erosion and maintenance requirements, with the aggregates to be sourced from the mainland and brought in via ship.

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2.4.4 Fencing and landscaping A fence or barrier would be constructed around the base of the turbine guy mounts to prevent cattle scratching. To minimise fauna impacts, barbed wire would not be used. Disturbed areas would be rehabilitated and reseeded (refer section 2.5.5).

2.5 CONSTRUCTION

2.5.1 Activities, plant and equipment Plant and equipment used during construction of the wind turbines may include a drilling rig, excavator, backhoe, trucks, generator, small crane and hand/power tools (Jacobs 2015c). Roadworks will also require a compactor, roller, grader and water truck. Cable trenching and laying equipment will be required for installation of the underground power and communications cabling. Concrete for the turbine footings would be mixed on-site, requiring local stockpiling of imported concrete materials and a mobile concrete agitator. Excavation in the stiff to hard clay soils should be achievable with conventional excavation equipment (excavators/backhoes). Where shallow basalt is encountered along the ridgeline at the turbine sites, hydraulic rock picks/hammers or blasting may be required (Jacobs 2015a).

2.5.2 Temporary facilities A site compound, lay-down, parking and stockpile areas would be established at the powerhouse area, at the commencement of the construction phase. Temporary fencing may be required around some facilities. Following completion of construction, waste, materials and equipment would be removed and the temporary facility sites would be rehabilitated (refer section 2.5.5).

2.5.3 Materials and resources A range of construction materials would be used for the project, including engineered fill material, sand, gravel, bitumen and concrete, and metals, fibreglass and plastics used in the fabrication of the turbines, transformers and cabling. With the exception of sand, all materials would be imported to the island. The importation of all materials would be carried out in accordance with the Lord Howe Island Biosecurity Strategy (AECOM 2016).

2.5.4 Construction access and materials delivery The turbines and other construction materials would be delivered to the island via a commissioned barge or as part of regular cargo deliveries. The commissioned barge would be landed near the Waste Management Facility, on the Lagoon, south of the airport. Where feasible, the barge delivery would avoid the winter period when winds are stronger and storms more frequent. Rigid plastic matting would be laid over the existing sand ramp and track between the beach and Lagoon Road to support vehicles unloading and loading from the barge. Materials would be taken to the site via the island road network, using Lagoon Road, Middle Beach Road and Anderson Road. Long components such as turbine blades may be transported to the site manually using trolley wheels.

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An existing 50 metre long unsealed track section would be upgraded to connect the turbine construction site with the approved and to-be-constructed solar farm road. This track section is currently located within an existing 5 to 6 metre wide cleared corridor through a narrow belt of native vegetation between portions 230 and 101. The track section would need to be widened and straightened to provide the 9 metre wide corridor required to carry larger vehicles and construction machinery for the wind turbine project. This would require the removal of a small area of native Greybark - Blackbutt forest, shown on Figure 5 1. A 15 km/hr speed limit would apply to delivery and construction traffic and travel would be restricted to daylight hours to minimise risks to native birds (refer section 6.2.1). Construction traffic would not be scheduled during the dawn and sunset Flesh-footed Shearwater activity periods during the breeding season.

2.5.5 Site protection and rehabilitation Standard sedimentation and erosion control measures would be implemented during the construction phase. Following completion of construction, waste, materials and equipment would be removed and temporary disturbance areas would be rehabilitated and revegetated. Topsoil would be removed, securely stockpiled and reinstated following the works. Disturbed pasture and road verge areas would be laid with exotic grass turf or sown with an infertile perennial ryegrass variety.

2.5.6 Personnel and work hours The workforce is likely to vary between 2 and 8 construction staff, depending on the activities undertaken and the construction stage. 2-5 construction staff are likely to be involved in the roadworks and a similar number would be required during the construction of the turbine footings and the assembly and erection of the turbines. The turbine manufacturer would be engaged to install the wind turbine infrastructure. Works personnel would stay in existing accommodation on the island. Construction activities would be carried out seven days a week (7am to 6pm) to enable the most efficient use of specialist contractors visiting the island. No work would be carried out on Public Holidays.

2.5.7 Duration, timing and staging The installation of the battery kiosk at the power station, battery and control system building and PV solar panels are scheduled from around March to October 2017. It is proposed that the wind turbine kiosk HV, LV and communications cabling would be installed from around April – May 2017. Wind turbine site civil works would occur in March - April 2017. Turbine footings would be established in late April 2017. The turbines would be constructed during July - August 2017. Commissioning of the hybrid system components would occur progressively, with final commissioning of the integrated system expected to occur in August 2017 and the commencement of commercial operation in September 2017.

2.5.8 Indicative capital costs The Technical Feasibility Study (Jacobs 2015b, Appendix H) indicated that the estimated capital expenditure for the wind turbine permitting and procurement to be $3.6 million, based on the AECOM Business Case. A further $0.5 million would subsequently be spent on practical completion and procurement for the HREP. Jacobs’ review of these costs produced a turbine procurement figure of $2,442,903, excluding delivery

6625 Final 4 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES costs. Final costs will be known following the competitive tender process. The total project cost for the HREP, including solar, battery and associated infrastructure, is estimated at $10.3 million in 2016 dollars.

2.6 OPERATION

2.6.1 Operation activities Activities involved in the operation of the wind turbines are likely to include:  periodic inspection and maintenance of the turbines, including lowering  periodic inspection and maintenance of the transformers and road access  repairs and parts replacement as required  lowering the turbines when extreme winds are forecast  control of vegetation inside turbine fences as required  monitoring of turbine performance and fauna impacts. Regular maintenance will be undertaken using local Board staff. Once the systems are commissioned and tuned it is anticipated that minimal maintenance will be required (Jacobs 2016b), typically requiring lowering of the turbines twice per year, for a period of 2 to 3 days each occasion. It is expected that the manufacturer would conduct annual inspections of the turbines for some years following construction. Biodiversity impact monitoring requirements are addressed in section 6.2.1.

2.6.2 Periodic and high-wind shutdown The turbines would shut down automatically when wind speed is too low or too high for safe and effective operation. The Vergnet turbine has a start-up wind speed of 3.5 m/s and a cut-out speed of 25 m/s. The smaller XANT turbine has a start-up wind speed of 3 m/s and a maximum wind speed of 20 m/s. Both turbine models can be lowered manually for maintenance and protection during very strong winds. The Vergnet turbines are able to withstand maximum winds of 30 – 42.5 m/s (115-153 km/hr) in the operating position. Fastened to the ground, the Vergnet turbine can sustain up to 300 km/h wind gusts (a Category 5 hurricane). The XANT turbines have a survival speed of 70 m/s (252 km/hr). The highest wind gust ever recorded on Lord Howe Island was 96 knots (49 m/s or 178 km/hr), which occurred in January 1948 when a severe tropical cyclone passed to the east (Bureau of Meteorology 2014). The turbines would also have the capacity for automated regular shutdown during particular times, for example to minimise bird and amenity impacts (refer section 6).

2.6.3 Turbine lighting Aviation navigation lighting would be installed on each turbine tower and remotely activated during emergency or RAAF activities when the airport may be used at night.

2.6.4 Personnel and work hours Operational and routine maintenance activities are expected to be carried out by the two existing Board powerhouse staff during normal work hours. Unanticipated repairs and lowering the mast in advance of extreme winds may occur outside normal work hours.

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2.7 REFURBISHMENT AND DECOMMISSIONING

The operational life the hybrid renewable energy system is expected to be 20 years. Battery replacement would occur once during this period (Jacobs 2015c). After 20 years, components would either be refurbished to extend their operational life, or removed and replaced with new technology in the same way the current diesel powerhouse is managed. Depending on nature of the refurbishment and the consent conditions, the refurbished wind turbines may be covered by the original development approval, or require further assessment and approval. The installation of the turbine infrastructure would be highly reversible. Decommissioning would be likely to involve the disconnection and removal of all generation components, the removal of turbine fencing, the covering over or removal of turbine footings and the reinstatement of the original soil profile. The materials and components removed from the site would be reused or recycled wherever possible. As in the case of post construction rehabilitation, disturbed paddock areas would be revegetated using appropriate pasture plant species and restored to the original condition.

2.8 BIODIVERSITY OFFSET

The proposal includes the restoration of an area of disturbed natural forest close to the development site to offset the vegetation clearing required to widen the access road to the site. The offset proposal is detailed in Appendix G of the Biodiversity Assessment, which is attached as Appendix A of this Environmental Report. Biodiversity offsets are measures that are used to compensate for the adverse impacts of development. Direct offsets are areas of land similar and generally close to the area impacted by a proposal which are set aside permanently and managed for conservation. The proposed works would remove up to 200m2 of Greybark-Blackbutt (Drypetes deplanchei–Cryptocarya triplinervis) Closed Forest (refer section 6.2.1). The offset would restore approximately 1700m2 of this vegetation community; refer Figure 2-12 and Figure 2-13.

Figure 2-12 Location of proposed turbine site (red) and Figure 2-13 Biodiversity offset site to be revegetated and biodiversity offset site (yellow) protected The selection of the offset site is consistent with the LHI Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan 2002-2007 because it adjoins the Permanent Park Preserve and has natural resilience. The objective of restoration works at the offset site is to restore the vegetation community to a resilient, self-sustaining state using grazing exclusion, native species planting and weed control. The offset site would be effectively managed by the Board for conservation as part of the adjoining Permanent Park Preserve. The site would be protected into the future by adjusting the Special Lease area.

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3 ALTERNATIVES AND JUSTIFICATION

3.1 NEED FOR THE PROJECT

Over the past decade, visitor numbers, Board legislative responsibilities, community expectations and operating costs have all increased. The Board’s current revenue sources will be insufficient to allow the Board to meet this increasing demand for services and fund necessary capital renewal (PwC 2013a). The island currently relies on imported diesel for electricity generation, which is increasingly expensive and subject to price and supply volatility. The Board engaged Jacobs (2015d) to provide an indicative projection of distillate prices as used for electricity generation on the island. The projected price increases to 2040 are shown in Table 3-1. The prices do not include GST, excise, freight or any supplier (retail) margin. At the time of the report (December 2015) excise was 38.143 cents/Litre.

Table 3-1 Projected wholesale distillate prices at Sydney (ex GST and excise), real $2015 (Jacobs 2015d)

The island is also at the end of the supply chain, so when diesel arrives it has been handled on multiple occasions, and the risk of contamination by water and spoiling has increased. This was evidenced in June 2015 when approximately 30,000 litres of diesel delivered to the island was contaminated with water and required filtering to restore its condition. The reliance on a fossil fuel also runs counter to the global need to mitigate climate change by reducing carbon emissions. The proposed HREP would reduce reliance on imported diesel and reduce carbon emissions produced by electricity generation. Wind and solar, coupled with batteries, provide stable and sustainable energy sources to complement diesel power generation on the island. The use of renewable energy sources is consistent with the objectives, policies and actions contained in the Lord Howe Island Energy Supply Road Map, the NSW Renewable Energy Action Plan, NSW 2021: A Plan to Make NSW Number One, and the Strategic Plan for the Lord Howe Island Group World Heritage Property.

3.2 TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY

Jacobs (2015b, Appendix H) conducted a Technical Feasibility Study based on the following key elements of the proposed HREP. The study involved the examination of:  physical layout considerations to assess practicalities of proposal  preliminary design of electrical arrangements  system, communications and protection Studies  geotechnical investigations  wind and solar site data  HREP Integrated System Review  Review of potential suppliers, project costs and project program.

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Jacobs’ Power System study confirmed that the proposed hybrid system integrated with the Lord Howe Island electricity grid provides a stable network, capable of supplying power with levels of quality and reliability compliant with Australian Standards and user expectations. The analysis of the wind monitoring data collected at the site indicate that the site has a good wind resource. The location of the monitoring mast to obtain site resource data was considered to be representative and compliant with International Energy Commission recommendations. The study reviewed two options; Option 1 - solar PV plus wind turbines and Option 2 - solar PV only. Both options include the installation of a battery storage system. The study concluded that both Option 1 and Option 2 are technically feasible. Option 1 offers a significantly larger reduction in fuel consumption than Option 2, and the wind generation component provides by far the greatest contribution to fuel savings. The proposed Option 1 was close to, but not the optimal configuration of wind, solar and battery components. Modelling indicated that the optimal economic solution for the design of the HREP was:  1 x 200kW Vergnet wind turbine  450kW Solar PV  800kWh of battery. Whilst the 100kW XANT turbine might not lead to the same reduction in overall fuel consumption, depending on price, it may be a more economical solution. At current pricing, the XANT (two 100kW turbines) returns very similar fuel consumption and Cost of Energy figures to the single Vergnet configuration. The Technical Feasibility Study report prepared in 2015 identified that a practical completion date of the 30 September 2017 was achievable in the allocated time. This completion date will be refined where approval for the development is granted. The study provided the following recommendations:  In the future some optimisation studies should be carried out as part of the tender process to balance CAPEX, OPEX, Sustaining CAPEX and potential site constraints that may arise as part of the approvals process.  Further detailed optimisation analysis should be carried out at tender stage and that this analysis includes consideration of the entire life cycle, including disposal.  A requirement of the control system tender should include optionality for predictive control strategies which enable the opportunity to run the HREP system more efficiently.  The value of reduced diesel consumption beyond its basic cost per litre needs to be determined so that a choice between options that have a lower COE and options that have a lower total fuel consumption can be made.

3.3 FUNDING AND FINANCIALS

3.3.1 Funding arrangements Historically, it has cost the Board more to provide electricity, than the revenue that is generated from the community’s use of the service. From 2009 to 2016, the Board has received more than $11 million of

6625 Final 8 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES funding from the NSW Government to provide services to the Island, of which more than $1.6 million has been used to make up the shortfall in electricity revenue. The NSW Government will continue to provide this funding to support the cost of providing the island’s services. Funding for the $10.35 million HREP is provided through three sources – a $4 million grant from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA); a $5.9 million loan from the NSW Government and $456,000 from the Board through cash and in-kind contributions. The loan from the NSW Government will be on favourable terms for the Board, with a lower interest rate than could be achieved commercially, and a freeze on repayments until the system is commissioned in late 2017, and diesel savings are being achieved. The loan facility will be in place for the previously approved solar and battery component of the project, regardless of whether the wind turbine component of the project proceeds. The principal to be repaid for a solar only project would reduce proportionally to reflect the reduced cost of the project, in the same way it is expected that the grant from ARENA would also reduce. The project is not expected to affect the ongoing funding received from the NSW Government or the revenue that the Board earns through electricity sales. As a result of the installation of the solar PV and the wind turbines, additional revenue will be received from the sale of Large scale Generation Certificates (LGCs), which has been factored into the financial model. As a result, the loan is intended to be paid back from the savings that are made by the HREP through reduced diesel consumption. There is not intended to be any negative financial impact to the island community from the loan repayments. Excise is effectively a tax that is applied to fuels, including diesel. It is indexed twice per year (February and August) on the basis of CPI. As of 1 August 2016, the excise on diesel is 39.6 cents/litre. However, the Board is able to claim the full amount of the excise back from the Federal Government as a Fuel Tax Credit. This is also the case for claiming the GST from the Federal Government. For this reason, GST and excise are excluded from the calculations relating to the financial arrangements, as they are not a cost to the project or the Board. During 2015/16, the Board paid an average of $1.07/litre (excl GST and excise). Based on the US Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) reference case, for 2016/17, the Board is expected to pay an average of $1.02/litre. The EIA reference case has been used in the financial model calculations (Section 3.3.7) and has also been used to demonstrate the ability of the project to pay back the loan (interest and principal), using the savings from reduced diesel consumption. It is also important to note that the external costs of diesel consumption on the Island (Section 3.3.3) have not been used in this calculation. The cashflows are positive from operational year 2 onwards (2018/19) until the end of the 20 year project life, except for project year 11, where a $1.2 million investment in replacement batteries and inverters creates a negative cashflow. However, it is expected that this capital investment would be sourced via the Board’s normal capital request to NSW Treasury, and effectively be a grant.

3.3.2 Increasing distillate prices Jacobs (2015b) completed an assessment of the future price of distillate (diesel) on the Island. Utilising historical relationships between the US Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) reference case and local price markers (eg. Tapis crude and Singapore Gasoil), a local terminal gate price for diesel in Sydney has been estimated through until 2040. The EIA projects a steadily increasing diesel price over the next 20

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years, irrespective of whether it is the low or high oil price cases; refer Figure 3-1. The figures quoted below are based on the reference case projection. Based on the Reference oil price projection shown in Figure 3-1, the projected long term diesel price on the island is expected to follow the curve shown in Figure 3-2.

Figure 3-1 EIA projections for Brent Crude (real $2013, USD/BBL) distillate1 1 DOE/EIA-0383(2015), April 2015, “Annual Energy Outlook 2015, with projections to 2040

1.5

1.0

0.5

Sydney Sydney (exclprice and GST excise), AUD/Litre, real$2015

- Ex

0.0 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040

Figure 3-2 Projected Sydney wholesale distillate price (excl excise and GST), real $2015 The following notes apply: 1) These values are ex-Sydney at the wholesale price level. They do not include freight to Lord Howe Island nor any supplier (retail) margin.

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2) The values exclude GST 3) The values exclude the current excise (fuel tax credit repaid to the Board).

The price for diesel, delivered to the island today, is lower than in 2014 when the original business case for the project was developed. The reduction in prices is not expected to be a long term trend and the price of diesel is expected to rise steadily over the 20 year life of the project in line with Figure 3-2, which is why it is important to focus on the long term benefits.

3.3.3 External costs of diesel use To fully quantify the economic benefits of the reduced diesel consumption, Jacobs (2016c) undertook an economic assessment of the emissions and risk of spill from diesel use on the island. This assessment considered the valuation of:  Carbon dioxide, sulphur oxides, and oxides of nitrogen associated with burning diesel fuel for electricity generation on the island; and  The risk of a diesel spill including clean-up costs and the effect on the tourism economy of the island. The results of the assessment are summarised in Table 3-2.

Table 3-2 Costs per litre of diesel at Lord Howe Island Power Station, for diesel spills and emissions from combustion

Price Cents / Description litre

푃퐶푂2 16.9 Green-house gas emissions

푃푆푂푥 0.0 SOx emissions

푃푁푂푥 2.9 NOx emissions

푃푅푒푒푓 7.6 Spill following the resupply ship running aground on the reef

푃퐽푒푡푡푦 0.1 Spill from transfer operations at the jetty / power station 푷 27.5 Total

Based on the review, a value of 27.5 cents per litre can be added to the current base price to reflect these externalities.

3.3.4 Effect of periodic shutdown to mitigate impacts The HREP will have the capability to schedule regular automatic shutdowns of the wind turbines to reduce noise and biodiversity impacts. Strategically timed shutdowns can be used to reduce night time noise emissions and bladestrike risks for birds during the breeding season. The effects on renewable energy production and diesel fuel consumption of potential shutdown scenarios have been modelled and are

6625 Final 11 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES described below. The modelling is based on the proposed configuration of two Vergnet 200 kW turbines, 450 kW of solar panels and a 400 kW/kWh Li ion battery.

Night time noise reduction Noise produced by wind turbines typically increases with wind speed up to about 30km/h after which it is constant. To reduce night time amenity impacts, the turbines can be set to shut down during particular weather conditions or when winds exceed a certain speed. The effect on diesel fuel use of shutting down the turbines between 10.00 pm and 7.00 am when the wind is over 7m/s (25km/h) at hub height was modelled by Jacobs. The results show that the overnight shutdown option would mean a 10.3% decrease in fuel savings over a year. The scenario with the wind turbines shutdown between 10.00 pm and 7 am all year round for all wind speeds when the wind comes from the northeast through to the south was also modelled by Jacobs. This resulted in a similar impact to the fuel savings (compared to a no-shutdown scenario), because the average wind speed on the Island at hub height is 7.4m/s (26km/hr) and the prevailing wind direction is from the south-east.

Table 3-3 The effect on diesel fuel use of overnight turbine shutdown for noise reduction

Option Fuel use L Fuel savings L Fuel savings % No shutdown 181,928 359,895 66% Night shutdown when winds >7m/s 237,567 304,256 56% Night shutdown for wind directions NE to S 234,219 307,604 56.7%

3.3.5 Bird risk mitigation The principal operational risks to birds are associated with the potential for bladestrike. The risk to the threatened and migratory Flesh-footed Shearwater is a particular concern (refer section 6.2.1). This species has an important breeding colony adjacent to the turbine site. The expert bird assessments have confirmed that evening or, if necessary, overnight shutdown of the turbines would ensure that the proposal would not significantly impact this species. The Technical Feasibility Study (Jacobs 2015b) modelled the effects of turbine shutdown between 15 September and 15 May from 15 minutes prior to sunset to 60 minutes after sunset. This would result in a 11.7% increase in diesel fuel use (compared to a no-shutdown scenario). The actual shutdown period may be varied depending on bird monitoring results and the measured impact of the operating turbines. The proposed safeguards in this report recommend a shutdown period of 15 minutes before dusk till 2 hours after dusk for the Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding season (15 September to 15 May). If bladestrike mortalities are greater than expected, the report identifies a contingency measure of turbine shutdown each night of the breeding season from 30 minutes before dusk until at least 60 minutes after dawn.

3.3.6 Social and economic impacts Based on community surveys and studies conducted on the island and elsewhere, the proposal is not likely to significantly affect community well-being provided visual, noise and wildlife impacts can be demonstrated to be acceptable and the approval process is seen to be open, objective and participatory (refer section 6.2.7). The available evidence and studies conducted for the project indicate that the health

6625 Final 12 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES and well-being impacts of noise and infra-sound, electromagnetic fields (EMF), and shadow flicker are not likely to be significant. Surveys and consultations show that the proposal is not likely to have any significant negative effect on tourism visitation and economic activity and may have some positive benefit. Studies in Australia and overseas also suggest that the proposal is unlikely to affect land values on the island. The proposal is intended to have a positive impact on island amenity over the longer term, and reduce the potential for significant increases in electricity prices caused by diesel price increases. The replacement of the diesel engines in 2009 with more fuel efficient engines lead to a 170,000 litre or 22% annual drop in fuel consumption. The introduction of private solar in 2012 has seen a further reduction in the amount of diesel required by the Board with the currently permitted 120kW of private roof top solar expected to contribute to a further 6% reduction in annual fuel consumption. The approval of the installation of the solar battery and control system elements of the Hybrid Renewable Energy Project, will reduce the volume of diesel consumed annually for electricity generation by at least a further 30%. Currently the diesel fuel is delivered to the Island in the fuel tanks of the Island Trader which also provides the freight shipping service to the island. As a consequence, the transportation of sea freight to the island may be affected because of the reduced revenue for the shipping contractor, due to the lower volumes of diesel consumed by the Board at the powerhouse. The impact on the frequency of trips and cost of shipping to the community is unknown at this time. The shipping service currently enjoys high demand with many voyages being fully loaded, and a portion of available freight being left behind. In addition, the long term contract to provide the shipping service is due for renewal in March 2017, which may see a change in the arrangements, including pricing. In conclusion however, the risk of increased electricity prices from increasing diesel price is considered to be a far greater risk than increased sea freight prices.

3.3.7 Financial snapshot Based on diesel prices on the Island over the 2015/16 year, and without the addition of the 27.5 cents per litre external cost (Section 3.3.3), over the 20 year life, the project returns a -$1,629,000 Net Present Value (NPV) and an Internal Rate of Return of -2.3%. A snapshot of the key elements of the financial model for the project are included as Table 3-4 below. If the diesel price increases more in line with the high case as shown in Figure 3-1, then the project, subject to no other changes, will have a +$28,000 Net Present Value (NPV) and an Internal Rate of Return of 10.8%. Table 3-4 Snapshot of key elements of the financial model for the project

Technical parameters Wind 400 kW Solar 450 kW System Size 850 kW Wind Capacity Factor 35.17% Wind Farm output, Year 1 1,232,357 kWh Solar PV Capacity Factor 17.78% Solar PV output, Year 1 700,888 kWh Solar Panel Degradation 1.00% p.a. Solar Inverter Degradation 0.00% p.a. Distillate consumption 0.205 litres/kWh Diesel engine variable O&M 10 $/MWh Distillate cost (2016) As per EIA reference case $/litre Include environmental cost of distillate? 0.275 (not used) $/litre RE opex - PV $1 per MWh

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RE opex - Wind $10 per MWh RE opex - Batteries $15,000 p.a. Economic Parameters Electricity tariff (2015) 0.41 $/kWh Electricity Demand Growth 0.00% Energy, year-on-year growth Diesel Price Escalation (simple) As per EIA reference case Electricity Tariff Escalation 2.50% CPI 2.50%

3.4 PROJECT BENEFITS

3.4.1 Benefits of the HREP The economic, environmental and community benefits of the HREP have been documented in the Community Engagement Plan developed for the project (Jacobs 2016a):  Up to 67% reduction in diesel fuel consumption, saving about 360,000 litres of diesel a year.  The hybrid system of wind turbines, solar panels and battery will be more efficient and cost effective in reducing diesel consumption than a straight solar system.  Reduced potential for ‘diesel price shock’ (increased energy costs if diesel fuel price escalates significantly).  Less intensive and reduced diesel engine maintenance costs.  Branding opportunities for the Island in terms of sustainability credentials and ecotourism.  Small influx of design and construction workers to the Island over two years from 2016.  Protection of the island’s World Heritage assets through sustainable energy production.  Reduced risk of diesel spillage into the Lagoon and on land during unloading and deliveries to the powerhouse due to the reduced volumes of fuel.  Reduced greenhouse gas emissions and overall environmental impact.  Reduced dependency on diesel imports meaning increased self‐sufficiency for the island.  Potential for additional energy supply for other functions on the island (e.g. electric vehicles).  More sophisticated control system and newer technologies enabling greater efficiencies.

3.5 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSAL

The project aims to reduce diesel consumption and the costs of electricity generation (Jacobs 2016b). A number of alternatives were examined to achieve this overarching aim. Table 3-4 provides a comparison of electricity generation options for Lord Howe Island. The figures are for an average year and have been calculated using: a. the 10 minute average load on the system in 2011, which was chosen as it was the most recent year of data prior to the introduction of private solar panels b. the annual profiles for temperature, wind and solar are based on site derived measurements that have been correlated to long term data sources.

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The comparison includes the three wind turbine options assessed in this report and a shorter 23 metre hub height version of the XANT turbine, as well as two solar panel configurations and no wind or solar, with and without private solar. Note that the 120 kW private solar scenario is the current situation on the island. The proposed option (highlighted in the table) provides substantially better fuel savings and renewable energy penetration than the solar only, single Vergnet turbine and XANT turbine options.

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Table 3-4 Comparison of electricity generation options

Annual Annual Annual Annual fuel diesel diesel fuel savings Diesel Renewable Renewable running Cost2 Option used L savings L % kWh kWh % hrs $m No renewables 541,823 0% 2,345,000 0% 13,780

120 kW private solar (status quo) 509,705 32,118 6% 2,209,498 136,614 6% 12,798

Solar 450 kW1 375,357 166,466 31% 1,583,210 837,271 32% 9,566 6.4 Solar 550 kW1, 3 349,311 192,512 36% 1,516,374 992,978 35% 8,670 6.60 1 x Vergnet 200 kW1 257,171 284,652 53% 1,101,777 1,443,554 53% 7,065 8.28 2 x Vergnet 200 kW1 181,928 359,895 66% 779,301 2,049,837 67% 5,000 9.21 1 x XANT 100 kW (31.8m)1 311,596 230,227 42% 1,340,020 1,129,703 43% 8,325 7.17 2 x XANT 100 kW (31.8m)1 260,794 281,029 52% 1,116,853 1,422,135 52% 7,185 7.55 1 x XANT 100 kW (23m)1 315,026 226,797 42% 1,355,668 1,109,896 42% 8,375 7.17 2 x XANT 100 kW (23m)1 267,592 274,231 51% 1,146,709 1,382,521 51% 7,337 7.55

1 Based on 120kW of private solar installed and a 400/800 kW/kWh battery 2 Capital cost $million based on estimates provided by suppliers in 2015. Excludes $1.14m of pre-construction costs. 3 Solar panel configuration if no wind turbines are constructed

3.5.1 Solar PV only The Technical Feasibility Study (Jacobs 2015b, Appendix H) concluded that, while feasible, solar only would result in a significantly smaller reduction of diesel fuel consumption than the proposal in this report. A solar only option would still require the installation of a battery storage system. The wind turbines provide an important supplement to solar generation because they can produce electricity overnight, through winter and on overcast days when solar generation is reduced or non-existent. With a solar only option, it is likely that solar panels would also need to be installed in the Portion 101 paddock (solar area C in Figure 2-6Error! Reference source not found.).

3.5.2 Smaller turbines Using smaller turbines than those proposed (eg. less than 100kW), more than two turbines would be required to achieve the intended output, resulting in a larger and more dispersed impact footprint and higher integration costs. The reduced area of impact of two larger turbines is advantageous because the area suitable for turbine development on the island is limited. A shorter hub height means lower efficiency

6625 Final 16 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES because of lower wind speeds and potentially greater turbulence caused by adjacent vegetation. Lower hub heights are also likely to have greater bladestrike impact on birds and bats (refer section 6.2.1).

3.5.3 Vertical axis turbines The proposed turbines are horizontal-axis turbines, which are by far the most common for commercial wind power generation. These turbines are preferred over vertical axis turbines for a range of reasons (Jacobs 2016a):  lower visual impact – the blades on vertical turbines tend to be thicker and more visible when rotating  higher efficiency – horizontal turbines have a height advantage so are able to access stronger winds and smoother, less turbulent air. Vertical turbines are not made on a commercial scale at a size adequate for the project, requiring more turbines to achieve the required output  commercial availability – a turbine is required that is simple, well proven and commercially available from an established company that will be able to provide support for the 20-year lifetime of the product. The proposed horizontal turbines provide the best efficiency, ease of installation and maintenance, flexibility in extreme weather conditions, and size to maximise energy outputs.

3.5.4 Bladeless turbines The Spanish company Vortex Bladeless has developed turbines that harness vorticity, the spinning motion of air or other fluids, to produce electricity from an oscillating cylinder. The technology has some advantages over conventional designs but is still under development. Vortex plans to release a four- kilowatt system in 2016 and a much larger one-megawatt device around 2018, both of which are unsuited to the size requirements of this project.

3.5.5 Private solar generation The island has had a moderate amount of private solar installed in the last few years (about 104 kilowatts and a further 16 kilowatts approved for installation). However, grid-connected private solar production cannot be increased above 120 kilowatts due to potential problems with control of the electricity network. In the absence of specialist control systems, an increase above this figure would cause unacceptable fluctuations in voltage and frequency and possible power outages (Jacobs 2015c). The costs and maintenance responsibilities associated with private solar systems would also be dispersed among landholders rather than borne by the Board. There is a lack of roof space and cleared land which has minimal shading and good northern orientation on the island, so the widespread use of distributed, small scale Solar PV is limited to what is currently approved. The Technical Feasibility Study (Jacobs 2015b) found that most of the installed private solar is operating inefficiently because of shading losses and suboptimal orientation. The average variation between potential and actual energy production for private solar systems was found to be -22%. In addition, the electricity distribution network, particular the substations around the island are not all capable of managing the input from significant amount of distributed Solar PV, without upgrades to their capacity.

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3.5.6 Do nothing This option involves maintaining the current reliance on imported diesel, with associated exposure of the community to pricing fluctuations and the long term rise in the costs of power generation. The projected price increases affecting wholesale diesel are shown in Table 3-1. The benefits outlined in section 3.4 would not be achieved, and the carbon emissions associated with the use of fossil fuels would continue. The Board considers that the do-nothing option is both financially and environmentally unsustainable for the island.

3.5.7 Preferred option Combined PV solar and wind generation provides the greatest reduction in diesel consumption (refer Table 3-4) and is the preferred option because it is technically feasible, meets the Board’s objectives and maximises the benefits of the project. The option would achieve the aims of the project using a cost- effective renewable energy system appropriate for a small and remote island community. Subject to the environmental assessment, the proposal is consistent with the nominated design criteria for the project (refer section 2.2).

3.6 PERMISSIBILITY

The project is permissible at the subject site under relevant planning legislation and instruments, including the LHI Local Environmental Plan 2010 and the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (refer section 4).

3.7 JUSTIFICATION SUMMARY

Currently, Lord Howe Island is largely reliant on imported diesel for public electricity generation. This situation is considered unsustainable because of increasing costs, price volatility and environmental risks and impacts associated with diesel fuel. The use of Solar PV and wind generation to reduce diesel consumption is technically feasible, cost-effective over the long term and permissible at the proposal site under relevant planning instruments. The current proposal meets the objectives and design criteria for the HREP, and, subject to the environmental assessment, represents a significant step toward improved sustainability for electricity generation on the island.

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4 STATUTORY AND PLANNING CONTEXT

4.1 COMMONWEALTH AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL

4.1.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 The EPBC Act provides an assessment and approval process for actions likely to cause a significant impact on Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES). These include:  World Heritage properties  National Heritage places  Wetlands of international importance (listed under the Ramsar Convention)  Listed threatened species and ecological communities  Migratory species protected under international agreements  Nuclear actions (including uranium mines)  Commonwealth marine areas  The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park  A water resource, in relation to coal seam gas development and large coal mining development. Approval by the Commonwealth Environment Minister is required if an action is likely to have a significant impact on a MNES. Assessments of significance based on criteria listed in Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 issued by the Commonwealth (Commonwealth of Australia 2013) are used to determine whether the proposed action is likely to have a significant impact (ie is likely to be considered a ‘controlled action’). A referral process, including the opportunity for pre-referral meetings with the Commonwealth, is also used to determine whether or not a proposed action will need formal assessment and approval under the EPBC Act. The requirements for referrals is detailed in Part 4 of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2000. The content of a referral is specified in Schedule 2 of the regulation. After considering a referral, the Environment Minister can make one of the following decisions:  that the action requires assessment and approval as it is likely to have a significant impact on a matter protected by the EPBC Act;  that the action does not require assessment and approval as it is not likely to have a significant impact on a matter protected by the EPBC Act; or  that the action does not require assessment and approval as the action will be undertaken in a 'particular manner’ that will ensure that any potential significant impacts are avoided or reduced by mitigation measures to the extent that they will not be significant. The 'particular manner' is spelled out in the Environment Minister's decision.

Bilateral agreement If a proposal requires approval under the EPBC Act, the proposal may be assessed by the NSW Government under a bilateral agreement between the Commonwealth and NSW Governments made under section 45 of the EPBC Act. In this case, the NSW Government assesses the proposal and prepares an Assessment Report and recommendation for the Commonwealth on whether the development should be approved, and what conditions should apply, considering impacts to MNES.

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MNES in the study area The EPBC Act MNES reporting tool was consulted to determine if any threatened biota or communities listed under the Act would potentially be impacted by the proposal, based on a 10 kilometre search buffer from the centre of the proposal site. A summary of the search report is provided in Table 4-1.

Table 4-1 Summary of EPBC Act Protected Matters Report search results Protected Matter Entities within the search area World Heritage Properties 1 National Heritage 1 Wetlands of International Significance (Ramsar) None Great Barrier Reef Marine Park None Commonwealth Marine Area 1 Threatened Ecological Communities None Threatened Species 45 Migratory Species 41 Commonwealth land None Commonwealth Heritage places None Listed marine species 36 Whales and other cetaceans 31 Critical habitats None Commonwealth reserves (terrestrial) None Commonwealth reserves (marine) 2 State reserves 1 Regional Forest Agreements None Invasive species 13 Nationally Important Wetlands None Key Ecological Features (Marine) 2

The Lord Howe Island Group is listed on the World Heritage List as a Declared Property and is a listed National Heritage Property. Under section 12 of the EPBC Act, an action that is likely to have a significant impact on World Heritage values may only be taken if it is:  approved in accordance with an Australian Government environmental impact assessment process or an accredited State environmental impact assessment process; or  approved under a management plan accredited by the Australian Government Environment Minister. Schedule 5 of the EPBC Regulations 2000 contains principles for the management of Australian World Heritage properties. The principles cover protection and conservation, public consultation, management planning, and environmental impact assessment and approval. The Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments have agreed to the principles as part of the Australian World Heritage Intergovernmental Agreement. The LHI Group also provides habitat for 45 threatened species and 41 migratory species listed under the EPBC Act. The current proposal has potential to be a controlled action because World Heritage values and National Heritage places are involved. This Environmental Report assesses impacts to MNES in accordance with the Significant Impact Guidelines (refer Appendix A and sections 6.2.4 and 6.2.5).

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A referral to the Commonwealth Government, under the EPBC Act, has been prepared to determine controlled action status and assessment requirements. The referral is expected to be submitted in parallel with the Board consent process. The assessments in the Environmental Report conclude that the proposal is not likely to have a significant impact on MNES, including World Heritage values, National Heritage values, threatened species and communities and migratory bird species. Assessments of Significance under the EPBC Act for affected species are provided in Appendix A.

4.1.2 EPBC Act Policy Statement 2.3 Wind Farm Industry These guidelines are intended to assist wind farm proponents to decide whether or not proposed actions require referral under the EPBC Act. The guidelines describe in broad terms when an action should be referred, the referral process and how to make a referral. The guidelines note that to date, primary environmental concerns arising from wind farms has been bird and bat bladestrike. Waterbirds, seabirds, migratory species and threatened species are particularly at risk. Other major issues include disturbance or alienation of important sites, vegetation clearing and impacts on World Heritage properties and/or National Heritage places.

Matters affected by wind farms The guidelines identify the following six MNES potentially affected by wind farm development. Listed threatened species and ecological communities Attributes affecting the significance of impact include:  Numbers and distribution/extent of listed threatened species or ecological communities  Likelihood of listed threatened species colliding with turbines  Movement routes of listed threatened species  Use of site by listed threatened species for roosting, feeding or breeding. Listed migratory species Wind farms are most likely to have a significant impact on a listed migratory species where they:  substantially modify, destroy or isolate an area of important habitat for the migratory species, or  seriously disrupt the lifecycle (breeding, feeding, migration or resting behaviour) of an ecologically significant proportion of the population of the species. Wetlands of international importance Not applicable to proposal. World Heritage Properties An action that is expected to result in loss, degradation or damage to any World Heritage values is likely to be considered to have a significant impact. The guidelines give visual impact on the listed landscape, wilderness, historical, cultural or architectural values as an example. National Heritage places An action that is expected to result in loss, degradation or damage to any of the values of a National Heritage place is likely to be considered to have a significant impact.

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Commonwealth marine areas Not applicable to proposal.

Mitigation Significant impacts may be avoided through well-informed layout and location of the turbines and infrastructure, well-designed turbines, and well-timed actions. The guidelines outline the following measures to avoid or reduce impacts:  site location of turbines and turbine design to reduce collision risk. Towers should not provide perches  transmission lines, fence lines and similar structures which provide perches should not attract birds into the collision zone of turbines  avoid lights that attract insects and insect-eaters such as bats and some smaller birds  pest, weed and disease management  environmentally sensitive trenching, erosion and stormwater control  timing of construction work to minimise impacts  standard mitigation procedures such as covering construction holes and fencing off areas of important native vegetation  strict speed limits on access roads to prevent roadkill and making roads as narrow as possible to minimise predation risk  where vegetation is permanently removed, compensation in the form of repair or establishment of habitat native to the area in another part of the site. World Heritage and National Heritage impacts mitigation measures include:  Turbine and site design (including visual amenity and noise aspects)  Management plan, including feral animal and weed control  Additional protection measures (e.g. run-off and erosion control).

4.1.3 Draft National Wind Farm Development Guidelines The draft National Wind Farm Development Guidelines (Environment Protection and Heritage Council 2010) provide assessment advice and methodologies for projects involving large wind turbines (over 500 kW). The guidelines provide the following principles for responsible wind farm development (summarised):

 the assessment can vary depending on the nature of the likely impacts and issues at a particular site  consultation needs to be inclusive and commence early in the development process  assessments should use the best available scientific knowledge  non-direct impacts should be identified and assessed. The guidelines focus on issues unique to wind farm developments, providing detailed methodologies for:  Community and stakeholder consultation  Wind turbine noise  Visual and landscape impacts  Birds and bats

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 Shadow flicker  Electromagnetic interference (EMI). Less detailed guidance is provided for:  Aircraft safety and lighting  Blade glint  Risk of fire  Heritage  Indigenous heritage. The guidelines do not address issues that are common to most major developments, including:  Vegetation clearance  Soil disturbance/erosion  Terrestrial fauna impacts other than birds and bats  Other ecological impacts  Traffic management  Construction and engineering standards  Social and economic impacts. Health impacts are not addressed because of lack of published scientific evidence of to positively link wind turbines with adverse health effects, citing the NHMRC (2015a) report. The guidelines state that if evidence of direct health impacts emerges, the guidelines would be modified as required. The wind farm assessment for the Lord Howe Island proposal is consistent with the draft guidelines. The guidelines are referenced in the Environmental Report and specialist studies as relevant.

4.1.4 Renewable Energy (Electricity) Act 2000 The objects of the Commonwealth Renewable Energy (Electricity) Act 2000 are: a) to encourage the additional generation of electricity from renewable sources b) to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases in the electricity sector c) to ensure that renewable energy sources are ecologically sustainable. The Act creates a market for renewable energy certificates (RECs) which are issued for the generation of electricity using eligible renewable energy sources (including wind power). The Act provides for a target for large-scale generation of 33,000 GWh in 2020, which would result in about 23.5 per cent of Australia’s electricity generation in 2020 coming from renewable sources.

4.1.5 Commonwealth wind farm bodies Following recommendations in the Senate Select Committee on Wind Turbines interim and final reports (SSCWT 2015), the Commonwealth Government has established:  a National Wind Farm Commissioner to facilitate resolution of community complaints and provide greater transparency on the operations of wind farms  an Independent Scientific Committee on Wind Turbines to provide advice on noise assessment and standards for wind (Hunt 2015).

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4.1.6 NHMRC wind farm research funding The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) opened a Targeted Call for Research (TCR) into Wind Farms and Human Health in March 2015 to gather evidence to establish whether there are direct adverse health effects from exposure to wind turbine emissions. This will underpin evidence-based government policy regarding wind turbine development and operations in Australia. The initiative is a response to the findings in the NHMRC Information Paper: Evidence on Wind Farms and Human Health (NHMRC 2015a), released in February 2015, which found that the existing body of direct evidence of adverse health impacts of wind farms was small and of poor quality. The NHMRC concluded that there is currently no consistent evidence that wind farms cause adverse health effects in humans (refer section 6.2.7). The paper noted however that given the poor quality of current evidence and the concern expressed by some members of the community, there is a need for high quality research into possible health effects of wind farms, particularly within 1,500 metres. The TCR will support research that addresses one or both of the following issues:  the relationship between wind farm noise and health effects.  the broader social and environmental circumstances that influence annoyance, sleep disturbance, quality of life and health effects that are reported by residents living in proximity to wind farms. In March 2016, the NHMRC awarded two grants totalling $3.3 million. Research at the Flinders University of South Australia will explore relationships between noise from wind farms and effects such as annoyances and reduced sleep and quality of life. Research at the University of New South Wales will investigate the broader social and environmental circumstances that may influence the health of people living near wind farms (NHMRC 2016). The research findings from both teams are expected in 2020. The NHMRC has given the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research $1.94m over five years to run two randomised controlled trials, one in the lab and another in homes, to test conclusively whether infrasound from wind turbines has any effect on health. In the first study, participants will be exposed to infrasound and to silence over three-day periods in the Institute’s purpose-built sound-isolated laboratory. In the second study, a group of residents in NSW’s Southern Highlands will be exposed to infrasound for six months through a purpose-built device installed in their bedroom. A second group will get a sham device that releases no infrasound. Once again, the participants will be ‘blinded’ as to which exposure they are receiving. In-room sound levels and sleep quality, blood pressure, heart rate, neurocognitive functioning, stress and anxiety will be monitored (Woolcock Institute 2016).

4.1.7 Strategic Plan for the Lord Howe Island Group World Heritage Property The plan (LHIB 2010) provides a ten year framework for the management of the LHIG World Heritage Property by the Lord Howe Island Board and NSW and Commonwealth Government agencies. It is intended to ensure that management of the property complies with Australia’s obligations under the World Heritage Convention to protect, conserve, rehabilitate, present and transmit World Heritage values, and the Australian World Heritage Management Principles agreed to by Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments. The plan notes that efficient, low impact energy and waste management systems are important to reduce environmental impacts, reduce costs (such as fuel imports) and protect the future quality of life for island residents. Strategies in the plan relevant to the current proposal include:

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Ensure that conservation of scenic values is considered and addressed in all planning, management and development processes. To the extent feasible, provide efficient and non-polluting energy systems that are compatible with the protection of World Heritage values. Action: E4 Continue to pursue energy efficient systems and alternative power sources that are compatible with protection the range of World Heritage biodiversity and scenic values.

4.2 NSW LEGISLATION AND POLICY

4.2.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 (EP&A Regulation) provide the framework for development assessment and approval in NSW. The relevant objects of the Act are to encourage:  the proper management, development and conservation of natural and artificial resources, including agricultural land, natural areas, forests, minerals, water, cities, towns and villages for the purpose of promoting the social and economic welfare of the community and a better environment  the promotion and co-ordination of the orderly and economic use and development of land  the protection, provision and co-ordination of communication and utility services  the protection of the environment, including the protection and conservation of native animals and plants, including threatened species, populations and ecological communities, and their habitats  ecologically sustainable development  increased opportunity for public involvement and participation in environmental planning and assessment. Development assessment provisions are provided in Part 4 and Part 5 of the Act. Developments requiring consent under a planning instrument (such as State Environmental Planning Policies and Local Environmental Plans) are assessed under Part 4 of the Act. Section 79 (c) Evaluation identifies matters to be considered in determining a development application, including: (a) the provisions of any relevant environmental planning instrument, development control plan, planning agreement, regulation, coastal zone management plan (b) the likely impacts of that development, including environmental impacts on both the natural and built environments, and social and economic impacts in the locality (c) the suitability of the site for the development (d) any submissions made in accordance with this Act or the regulations (e) the public interest. Section 111(1) of the Act requires a determining authority, when considering an activity, to examine and take into account to the fullest extent possible all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment.

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Clause 228 of the EP&A Regulation lists 16 factors that must be taken into account concerning the impact of an activity on the environment. Section 112 requires a Species Impact Statement to be prepared if a development is likely to significantly affect threatened species, populations or ecological communities, or their habitats, in accordance with Division 2 of Part 6 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. This section also requires the concurrence of the Director-General of OEH if there is likely to be significant impact to the above entities. The Act specifies seven factors which must be considered when determining whether a proposed development or activity would be likely to have a significant impact on threatened species, populations or ecological communities, or their habitats (the ‘Seven‐part Test’, or Assessment of Significance). ‘Integrated Development’ under the Act and Regulation is development which requires development consent and one or more approvals under other legislation (including the Fisheries Management Act 1994, Heritage Act 1977, Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997, National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, Roads Act 1993, Rural Fires Act 1997 and Water Management Act 2000). The proposal would not require approval under the identified legislation (refer section 4.2.8) and is therefore not considered to be Integrated Development. The project is not considered to be ‘Designated Development’ under section 77A of the Act because the works are not included in Schedule 3 of the EPA Regulation and are not defined as Designated Development under the LEP. The Lord Howe Island Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2010 provides that State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPS), other than SEPP (Building Sustainability Index: BASIX) 2004, made before the LEP do not apply to the island, and SEPPs made after the LEP do not apply unless the SEPP expressly provides otherwise. The State Environmental Planning Policy (State and Regional Development) 2011 and State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 do not apply to Lord Howe Island.

4.2.2 Lord Howe Island Act 1953 The Act establishes the Lord Howe Island Board as responsible for the care, control and management of the island. The Board is directly responsible to the NSW Minister for the Environment and comprises four Islanders elected by the local community and three members appointed by the Minister. The Act vests all land in the Crown under a system of Perpetual Leases for settlement and Special Leases for other purposes (largely agriculture). Perpetual leases are issued for residential purposes and can only be used for commercial purposes if there is a residence on the lease. Special Leases represent the only land on the island which is unencumbered by buildings and significant native vegetation, apart from the airport and golf course (LHIB 2015). Permissive occupancies are used for all other purposes such as boatsheds, vegetable gardens or infrastructure. Apart from a small number of Commonwealth leases, the remaining land is Crown land managed by the Board, including protected areas, recreation areas such as foreshore areas, and the airport, the Waste Management facility, Board infrastructure and buildings (LHIB 2015). Section 15A of the Act recognises the Board as a consent authority for the purposes of development approval under Parts 4, 4A and 5A and Division 2A of Part 6 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

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4.2.3 Lord Howe Island Regulation 2014 Among other things, Part 5 Protection of the Environment of the Lord Howe Island Regulation 2014 makes it an offence, without Board approval, to  remove soil, gravel and rock on the island  cut, fell, remove, damage or destroy native plants (crops, gardens and nature strips are exempt)  capture, trap, injure, kill or remove or damage eggs of Lamprima insularis (a stag beetle), Figulus howei (a stag beetle) and Davidrentzia valida (Rentz’s strong stick insect).

4.2.4 Roads Act 1993 All roads on Lord Howe Island are administered by the Lord Howe Island Board under section 263 of the Roads Act 1993.

4.2.5 National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 The National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NPW Act) aims to conserve nature, habitat, ecosystems, ecosystem processes and biological diversity at the community, species and genetic levels. Schedule 13 lists protected plants which shall not be harmed or picked on any land either on or off National Park estate. The LHI Act provides that Part 5 of the NPW Act applies to land dedicated as part of the Lord Howe Island Permanent Park Preserve under section 19A as if it were a national park except that a reference the Minister in the NPW Act refers to the Minister administering the LHI Act, and the plan of management for the Permanent Park Preserve is adopted by the Board rather than the Minister under the NPW Act.

4.2.6 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 The Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) aims to protect and encourage the recovery of listed threatened species, populations and communities. Obligations on determining authorities include the consideration of threatened species, populations, endangered communities and recovery plans in fulfilling their statutory responsibilities in the development approvals process under the EP&A Act. Division 2 of Part 6 of the TSC Act lists the requirements for the scope and content of Species Impact Statements. LHI provides habitat to a range of non-marine threatened species listed under the TSC Act (refer section 6.2.1). The LHI Biodiversity Management Plan (DECC 2007) operates as the Recovery Plan for threatened species and ecological communities that are listed under the TSC Act and the EPBC Act. 8 flora species, 21 fauna species and 1 ecological community listed as threatened under the NSW TSC Act are covered by the plan. 11 fauna species and 1 flora species are listed as threatened under the EPBC Act, and 58 bird species are listed as protected migratory species under that Act.

4.2.7 Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 The Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (POEO Act) is administered by NSW Environment Protection Authority and allocates responsibilities for environmental protection between OEH, local councils and other public authorities. OEH regulates polluting activities using environment protection licences for scheduled developments and activities listed on Schedule 1 of the Act. Electricity works (wind farms) are scheduled works if they are State significant development subject to Part 4 development consent, or were being carried out immediately before 1 December 2012 with a capacity

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4.2.8 Heritage Act 1977 This Act aims to conserve heritage values in NSW. The Act defines ‘environmental heritage’ as those places, buildings, works, relics, moveable objects and precincts of State or local heritage significance. A property is a heritage item if it is listed in the heritage schedule of the LEP or listed on the State Heritage Register, a register of places and items of particular importance to the people of NSW. The Lord Howe Island Group is listed on the NSW State Heritage Register as an item of state heritage significance. Under the Heritage (Lord Howe Island Exemption) Order 2014 issued by the Minister for Planning under section 57 (2) of the Act, developments on the island which are permissible under the LEP are not required to be referred to the NSW Heritage Division for concurrence unless approval is required under clause 39 of the Lord Howe Island LEP (provided any approval required under the EP&A Act has been obtained). Clause 39 relates to development affecting heritage items listed in Schedule 2 of the LEP. The proposal is located outside the curtilages of heritage items listed in Schedule 2 of the LEP and would not directly affect any item (refer section 4.3.1 below). Referral and concurrence under the Act is not considered to be required.

4.2.9 Noxious Weeds Act 1993 The NSW Noxious Weeds Act 1993 (NW Act) aims to prevent the establishment, reduce the risk of spread and minimise the extent of noxious weeds. The legislation requires that declared noxious weeds must be controlled or eradicated. Part 3 of this act outlines the obligations of a public authority to control noxious weeds. The Act defines five classes of noxious weeds, based on distribution and the level of threat that each species poses to the environment, human health or primary production. Of the approximately 500 introduced plant species on Lord Howe Island, 17 are declared noxious weeds (Le Cussan 2006). 15 of these are now targeted for eradication on all land tenures. Two species (Lilium formosanum and Ageratina adenophora) are widespread and eradication is not planned for these species at this stage (Le Cussan 2006). The noxious weeds Asparagus aethiopicus, A. asparagoides, A. plumosus, Chrysanthemoides monilifera, Ochna serrulata, Pittosporum undulatum and Psidium cattleyanum are known to occur in the Transit Hill area (DECC 2007). Ground Asparagus (Asparagus aethiopicus) is a major weed in this area and is the most abundant and widespread weed species on Transit Hill (DECC 2007). In addition, the environmental weeds Ageratina adenophora and Lilium formosanum are known from the area (DECC 2007).

4.2.10 Draft NSW Planning Guidelines: Wind Farms The draft NSW Planning Guidelines: Wind Farms (DPI 2011) were intended to provide a regulatory framework for wind farm development, while minimising and avoiding potential impacts on local communities. The guidelines were relevant to wind farm applicants, consent authorities, communities and stakeholder groups.

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The draft guidelines are to be replaced by the new Draft Framework for Wind Energy, currently on exhibition (refer section 4.2.11). When the new Framework is finalised, the 2011 draft guidelines would be revoked. The purpose of the guidelines is to:  provide a clear and consistent regulatory framework for the assessment and determination of wind farm proposals across the state  outline clear processes for community consultation for wind farm developments  provide guidance on how to measure and assess potential environmental noise impacts from wind farms. While most of the assessment requirements in the draft guidelines relate to large projects and State significant development (SSD) requiring an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), the guidelines may be used by local authorities as a resource when assessing smaller scale wind farm proposals. It is noted that the ‘Gateway’ assessment process detailed in guidelines (refer below) is not currently in operation, although Community Consultative Committees (CCC) are required by the Department of Planning and Environment for all SSD projects. The Department advised that some key elements of policy are still under consideration and it is uncertain when these outstanding issues will be resolved (Rohan Tayler DPE pers comm 28 Jan 2016).

Assessment category The draft guidelines categorise wind farm proposals with a capital investment of less than $5 million as ‘Local Development’ to be assessed and determined by the local authority. The wind component of the HREP which forms the basis for the current proposal fits within with the definition of local development under the guidelines and is to be determined by the Board.

Key matters for assessment The guidelines list the following key considerations in the assessment of wind farm proposals: (a) Proximity of turbines to existing residential dwellings (b) Community consultation (c) Visual amenity (d) Noise (e) Health (f) Decommissioning (g) Auditing and compliance. The guidelines propose a Gateway Process for large scale wind farm proposals. The process involves obtaining the written consent of all residents within 2 kilometres of the proposed turbines, or an application for a Site Compatibility Certificate based on an assessment of noise, visual and other impacts. The full Gateway Process contained in the guidelines, involving the issuing of Direct-General’s Requirements and consideration by a Joint Regional Planning Panel, is not relevant to the current proposal. The proposal has involved intensive consultation with all affected residents and stakeholders, including those within 2 kilometres (refer section 5).

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Key information to include in an Environmental Impact Statement The draft guidelines outline broad matters which need to be addressed in an EIS. These information requirements are reflected in the structure and content of this Environmental Report.

Consulting with the community and stakeholders The draft guidelines require the documentation of effective engagement, engagement with neighbours early in the process and the formation of Community Consultation Committees. The guidelines state that consultation should involve landowners, neighbours, relevant Commonwealth, State and local government agencies, community and representative interest groups, electricity network providers and other stakeholders. Consultation should inform the community, gain the community’s input and enable negotiation and issue resolution. In situations where there is a high level of community interest or concern in a wind farm, a Community and Stakeholder Consultation Plan should be developed. These requirements have been met through the implementation of the Community Engagement Plan (Jacobs 2016a, Appendix G) for the current project. Community Consultation Committees are established for large scale proposals, and generally form part of the Director-General’s Requirements. The LHI Sustainable Energy Working Group (SEWG) performs some of the functions of a Community Consultation Committee for the current project; refer section 5.

Technical appendices Technical appendices attached to the guidelines to assist the assessment of large scale projects provide more detail regarding assessment requirements (landscape and visual amenity, social issues, ecological issues, economic issues, heritage, hazards and risk, construction, decommissioning and rehabilitation, cumulative impacts), NSW wind farm noise guidelines, guidelines for community consultative committees, information to include in an EIS, conditions of consent and compliance and additional information and resources. The Appendix B wind farm noise guidelines have been adopted for the noise assessment undertaken for the current proposal (Jacobs 2016d). The noise guidelines are based on the 2009 South Australian Wind Farms - Environmental Noise Guidelines (SA 2009), prescribing a limit of 35dB(A) or the background noise (L90) by more than 5dB(A), whichever is the greater, at all relevant receivers not associated with the wind turbines. Under the 2011 NSW draft guidelines, the noise criteria must be established on the basis of separate daytime (7am to 10pm) and night-time (10pm to 7am) periods. Standards in Appendix A of the guidelines related to the incidence of shadow flicker have also been applied in the assessment undertaken for this project.

4.2.11 New Draft Wind Energy Planning Framework The NSW Government has released several consultation documents relating to the proposed new wind energy planning framework, including:  Wind Energy: Assessment Policy, Draft for Consultation August 2016  Wind Energy: Noise Assessment Bulletin, Draft for Consultation August 2016  Wind Energy: Visual Impact Assessment Bulletin, Draft for Consultation August 2016  Wind Energy Framework: Standard Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements, Draft for Consultation August 2016.

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The new framework provides a merit-based approach with a focus on early community consultation and the key issues of noise and visual impact. Compared to the 2011 guidelines, the new framework is restricted to State Significant Development, moves away from mandatory buffer zones for assessment and consultation, and provides a new detailed methodology for visual impact assessment. The Government is receiving public comments on the proposal until 16 September 2016. The framework is to replace the earlier draft NSW Planning Guidelines: Wind Farms (DPI 2011).

Relevance to current proposal The new framework would apply to large-scale wind energy development proposals that are State Significant Development (SSD). It would not apply to non-SSD development, such as local or regional development. State Significant Development is specified in Schedules 1 and 2 of the State Environmental Planning Policy (State and Regional Development) 2011. This SEPP does not apply to Lord Howe Island. Under the SEPP, development for electricity generation (including wind power) is SSD if it has: (a) a capital investment value of more than $30 million, or (b) a capital investment value of more than $10 million and is located in an environmentally sensitive area of State significance. ‘Environmentally sensitive areas of State significance’ include World Heritage properties. The proposed turbines on Lord Howe Island have an estimated capital expenditure of $3.6 million (refer section 2.5.8), with a further $0.5 million for practical completion. If Lord Howe Island was covered by the State and Regional Development SEPP, the proposal would not qualify as SSD on the basis of capital investment value, although it is sited in an environmentally sensitive area of State significance. The draft framework would therefore not apply to the proposal. However, the framework is reviewed here because elements have inprinciple relevance to the assessment of the current project.

Draft Wind Energy: Assessment Policy This policy provides guidance on the assessment of large-scale wind energy development proposals that are State Significant Development. The policy is supported by Assessment Bulletins issued by the Department of Planning and Environment to provide technical guidance on key issues, such as noise, and visual assessment.

OBJECTIVES The policy has the following objectives:  to provide clear and consistent technical guidance to regulators, industry and the community about how to measure and assess key environmental impacts of SSD wind energy development in NSW;  to facilitate community understanding of the issues involved in the design and installation of wind energy development;  to promote effective community consultation including opportunities for community input throughout the decision making process; and

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 to encourage benefit-sharing between wind energy operators and the communities in which they operate, where appropriate.

PLANNING PATHWAYS The policy identifies different planning pathways depending on capital investment value and electricity output. Projects with capital investment of less than $5M and output less than 30MW are in the category ‘Local Development’, approved by the local Council under Part 4 of the EP&A Act. These projects are handled through the State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007, although this SEPP does not apply to Lord Howe Island. Non-SSD wind energy development on the island is covered by the LEP.

KEY ISSUES FOR WIND FARM DEVELOPMENT The policy identifies the following key issues to be addressed during the assessment process:  visual impacts  noise impacts  biodiversity (especially bird and bat strike)  traffic and transport  strategic context  hazards and risk (including aviation safety and bushfire hazards)  risk of electromagnetic interference with telecommunication services  decommissioning  cumulative impacts (especially in regard to landscape, noise, biodiversity and traffic). Other issues, such as historic and Aboriginal cultural heritage and water, will continue to be dealt with through existing policies and practices which apply to all SSD proposals. The policy outlines the assessment and approval process for Environmental Impact Statements and SSD, referencing Planning Circular PS 11- 014 Assessment of State significant development and infrastructure (2011). The assessment is to be based on Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) issued by the Department for each SSD project.

PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT (EIS) The policy outlines broad EIS requirements for SSD projects, covering:  describing the project design  describing the likely impacts and mitigation and management options  micro-siting and environmental envelopes  refurbishment and decommissioning.

ASSESSMENT AND DETERMINATION The draft policy identifies matters that a consent authority will consider when determining a wind energy project DA including, for example:  suitability of the site for the wind energy project;  submissions made by the local community, stakeholders and government authorities;  the likely environmental, social and economic impacts of the construction, operation and decommissioning of the wind energy project in the locality;

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 the relevant provisions of any environmental planning instrument (e.g. LEP, SEPP) which regulates the permissibility of types of development in certain areas or provides other legally binding development requirements;  the public interest which includes consideration of the objects of the EP&A Act and the principles of ecologically sustainable development; and  key issues outlined in the policy.

COMMUNITY AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION The draft policy emphasises the importance of early and effective community consultation, the provision of clear information and ensuring opportunities for genuine input. Proponents should engage in consultation at all stages of wind energy project development, including siting and pre-lodgement, planning and EIS, construction, operation and decommissioning and rehabilitation phases. The draft standard SEARs for SSD wind energy development outline the minimum consultation requirements for SSD wind energy projects during the assessment process. Key issues for consultation include:  landscape values  access  landowner consent  shared benefits and negotiated agreements. The consultation requirements for the current project have been met through the implementation of a Community Engagement Plan (Jacobs 2016a, Appendix G); refer section 5.

Wind Energy: Noise Assessment Bulletin, Draft for Consultation August 2016 This Bulletin provides wind farm proponents and the community with advice about how noise impacts are assessed for large-scale wind energy development projects that are State Significant Development (SSD). The objective is to ensure that the noise impacts of wind energy developments are appropriately identified, avoided, mitigated and managed. Consistent with the 2011 draft guidelines, the new framework has adopted the 2009 South Australian document Wind Farms – Environmental Noise Guidelines (SA 2009) as the basis of the regulatory noise standard and assessment methodology apply to the assessment of SSD wind energy projects. The noise guidelines prescribe a limit of 35dB(A) or the background noise (L90) plus 5dB(A), whichever is the greater, at all relevant receivers not associated with the wind farm. Under the Noise Assessment Bulletin guidelines, the noise criteria must be established on the basis of separate daytime (7am to 10pm) and night-time (10pm to 7am) periods. These wind farm noise guidelines have been used for the noise assessment undertaken for the current proposal (Jacobs 2016d). The Bulletin states that wind farm proponents are not required to conduct a health impact assessment in relation to wind energy development and infrasound based on the current NHMRC position that there is no evidence supporting a link between wind energy developments and adverse health outcomes in humans. However, the NSW Government will continue to monitor relevant contemporary scientific research outcomes, including any advice from the National Wind Farm Commissioner and the Independent Scientific Committee. For this project, based on community feedback and concerns, the Board has undertaken an infrasound and background noise measurement at Coral Bay in Western Australia, where

6625 Final 33 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES three similar Vergnet wind turbines have been operating since 2007. The findings of this report are detailed in section 6.2.2.

Wind Energy: Visual Impact Assessment Bulletin, Draft for Consultation August 2016 This Bulletin has been developed to guide the location of SSD wind energy projects and to establish a framework for the assessment of visual impacts. The objectives are to:  provide the community, industry and decision-makers with a framework for visual impact analysis and assessment that is focused on avoiding, minimising and managing the highest impacts in the context of considering economic, social and environmental impacts;  facilitate improved wind turbine siting and design during the siting and pre-lodgement phase of a development to avoid or minimise conflicts and delays where possible, and provide for a better planning outcome;  provide the community and other stakeholders with greater clarity on the process along with an opportunity to integrate community landscape values into the assessment process; and  provide greater consistency in assessment by outlining appropriate assessment terminology and methodologies. The Bulletin outlines a Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) process comprising two main phases: 1. Preliminary Environmental Assessment, including community consultation regarding key landscape values and application of preliminary screening tools (analysing visual magnitude and the Multiple Wind Turbine Tool) 2. Assessment and determination, involving in depth assessment in the EIS. The VIA in the EIS should include:  a visual assessment baseline study, including analysis of the landscape character, scenic quality and visibility from viewpoints of different sensitivity levels;  a map of the project area classified into three zones of visual influence, based on the data from the baseline study and consultation with the community;  assessment of the proposed layout against visual performance objectives; and  justification for the final proposed layout and identification of mitigation and management measures. The three basic steps of VIA are:  preparation of a Visual Baseline Study, including consulting the community on the draft baseline study;  mapping of Visual Influence Zones based on the data collated in the Baseline Study; and  visual performance evaluation requiring application of visual performance objectives to the proposed wind turbine layout. Visual Performance Evaluation requires the application of Visual Performance Objectives that apply to all Visual Influence Zones, covering:  Visual magnitude  Landscape scenic integrity

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 Key Features Disruption  Multiple wind turbine effects  Shadow flicker and blade glint  Aviation hazard lighting. Appendices to the Bulletin provide guidance on baseline study inputs, visual impact assessment and impact mitigation options.

Draft Standard Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements The draft standard requirements provide pro forma guidance to the content and structure of an Environmental Impact Statement for State Significant Development wind projects. The document provides a list of general requirements and more detailed requirements for the following key issues:

 Landscape and Visual  Noise and Vibration  Biodiversity  Traffic and Transport  Hazard/Risks  Heritage  Water  Waste. The draft standard SEARs reference Schedule 2 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000, existing policies and guidelines, and the new draft noise and visual impact assessment bulletins. The draft SEARs require the establishment of a Community Consultative Committee for the project in accordance with the Community Consultative Committee Guidelines for State Significant Projects.

4.2.12 NSW Renewable Energy Action Plan NSW Renewable Energy Action Plan aims to grow renewable energy to support the national target of 20% of energy being from renewable sources by 2020. This target has been the primary driver of wind farm development proposals across NSW (DPI 2011). The plan details 24 actions under three broad goals: Goal 1 – Attract renewable energy investment Goal 2 – Build community support Goal 3 – Attract and grow renewable energy expertise. Action 10 under Goal 2 provides for the implementation of NSW wind energy planning guidelines.

4.2.13 Lord Howe Island Biodiversity Management Plan The LHI Biodiversity Management Plan (DECC 2007) guides the protection and recovery of biodiversity in the LHIG, with a focus on rare and significant species. It is intended that the Biodiversity Management Plan will be implemented over a 10-year period. The plan operates as the Recovery Plan for threatened species and ecological communities listed under the TSC Act and the EPBC Act. The recovery actions detailed in the plan relevant to the current proposal include protecting existing native vegetation, eradication and control of weeds, revegetation of priority sites, and pest fauna control and/or eradication.

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The plan identifies Transit Hill as a level 4 priority area, noting that there are a number of active threats operating including significant weed invasion, canopy windshear and dieback, and the impacts of trampling and grazing on native vegetation. The plan also notes that the significance of Transit Hill includes the valuable weed control work that has been undertaken over a number of years in this area by the Friends of Lord Howe Island and the Board.

4.3 LOCAL GOVERNMENT PLANNING AND POLICY

4.3.1 Lord Howe Island Local Environmental Plan 2010 The Lord Howe Island Local Environmental Plan 2010 (LEP) is established under the EP&A Act and is the principal instrument used to regulate land use and development on the island.

Aims of the LEP An evaluation of the proposal against the aims of the LEP is presented in Table 4-2. Based on the results of this evaluation and the Environmental Report, the proposal is considered to be consistent with the aims of the LEP.

Table 4-2 Evaluation of the proposal against the aims of the Lord Howe Island LEP

Aims of the Lord Howe Island Local Environmental Plan 2010 (a) to conserve the World Heritage values of Lord Howe Island and to restore or enhance lost or disturbed natural resources of the Island

An assessment of the impacts of the proposed works on World Heritage values is provided in section 6.2.4. The assessment concludes that the proposal is not likely to significantly affect World Heritage values, subject to a range of environmental safeguards identified in this report. A referral to the Commonwealth to determine controlled action status under the EPBC Act has been prepared.

(b) to conserve and facilitate the management of the marine environment of the Island and the resources of that environment

Not applicable.

The significance of impacts to threatened species, populations and ecological communities, and their habitats, has been provided in the Biodiversity Assessment (Appendix A), and summarised in section 6.2.1 of this report. The assessment concludes that the proposal is not likely to significantly affect threatened species and communities, subject to the environmental safeguards identified in this report.

(d) to encourage the ecologically sustainable use of resources

The proposal is consistent with the principles of Ecologically Sustainable Development (refer section 9). The proposal seeks to reduce the unsustainable use of fossil fuels for electricity generation on the island, which are non-renewable and contribute to the harmful and persistent effects of climate change.

(e) to encourage community appreciation of the World Heritage values of the Island

The proposal forms part of the ‘green’ and sustainable management of the LHI World Heritage property, which provides for low-impact human habitation and visitation while conserving the World Heritage values of the island.

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(f) to enhance the wellbeing and welfare of individuals and the Island’s community by pursuing economic development that safeguards the welfare of future generations

The sustainable and reliable supply of electricity is key to long term economic development on the island. The proposal would reduce reliance on imported diesel and insulate the island economy from future diesel price increases and volatility.

(g) to facilitate the proper management, development and conservation of the Island’s World Heritage natural environment, the Island’s cultural heritage and the Island lifestyle

The proposal would meet electricity supply goals, including high quality and reliability of supply, while conserving World Heritage values. The proposal would not significantly affect cultural heritage values (refer section 6.2.6) and is considered to be consistent with a local settlement landscape that reflects adaptability and self-reliance in the island population. The proposal would not inhibit or negatively impact islander lifestyles and may provide opportunities for enhancements such as increased use of small electric vehicles.

(h) to identify suitable land for the provision of housing and community services for the Island’s population while acknowledging suitable land for these purposes is limited

Cleared land suitable for wind turbine development is scarce on the island. The subject site is considered to be the most suitable site based on its close proximity to the settlement and existing electricity infrastructure, existing site environmental values and access to wind resources. The site would never be available for housing.

(i) to enable, on the limited land available for agriculture, sustainable agriculture (that is, agriculture that contributes to the Island’s economy and also protects the biological and physical resource base on which it depends)

The proposed works are compatible with the continued use of the subject site for agriculture. While the pasture area would be reduced by the stay anchor barriers, access track and biodiversity offset area, this is expected to have minimal impact on agricultural production at the site (refer section 6.3.3). The works would not affect any high value agricultural land.

(j) to ensure that public utility undertakings are carried out on the Island in a manner that minimises any environmental impact on the Island of those undertakings

The Environmental Report summarises a series of detailed assessments that have been undertaken to identify and assess the significance of potential impacts to environmental values resulting from the proposed works. The assessment concludes that, subject to identified environmental safeguards, the works would not have a significant impact on these values. The safeguards are intended to avoid and minimise environmental impacts.

(k) to acknowledge the importance of tourism to the Island economy and permit future development of tourism within limits

Based on the results of the visual and noise assessments, and the consultation process, the proposed works are not likely to negatively affect tourism on the island. The development of the sustainable electricity generation infrastructure also has value for sustaining tourism, and can contribute to the island’s green and sustainable marketing image.

(l) to ensure that tourism on the Island does not adversely affect the lifestyle of residents, or the World Heritage environmental qualities, of the Island, but enables visitors and residents to enjoy the Island

Not applicable.

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(m) to ensure the conservation of relics, specified heritage items and the heritage significance of those relics and heritage items (including the settings of those heritage items)

The proposal would not significantly affect cultural heritage values (refer section 6.2.6). The subject site is well outside the curtilage of LEP Schedule 2 Heritage Items and the site has low archaeological potential.

Objectives of LEP Zone No. 7 Environment Protection The proposal would be located on land zoned Zone No. 7 Environment Protection under the LEP. Within this zone, public utility installations and undertakings, roads, telecommunications facilities and erosion control works require development consent. The proposed works are permissible within this zone, with development consent. An evaluation of the proposal against the objectives of Zone No. 7 is presented in Table 4-3. Based on the results of this evaluation and the Environmental Report, the proposal is considered to be consistent with the objectives of the Environment Protection zone.

Table 4-3 Evaluation of the proposal against the objectives of Zone No. 7 Environment Protection

Objectives of Zone No. 7 Environment Protection (a) to protect areas that may be vulnerable to erosion or that are a habitat, or corridor, for animals that are native to the Island or significant native vegetation

The proposed works would affect a small area of native vegetation, which would be offset by restoration works close to the site (refer section 6.2.1). The works would not significantly affect native flora and fauna, and would not affect Significant Native Vegetation mapped in the LEP.

(b) to protect the scenic amenity of land in the zone

The impact of the works on scenic amenity has been the subject of a specialist study, attached at Appendix A and summarised in section 6.2.3. The study concludes that the proposal would not significantly affect scenic values or landscape character.

(c) to restore lost or disturbed natural resources, particularly if this may enhance the World Heritage values of the natural environment of the Island

The small area of vegetation clearing resulting from the works would be offset by restoration planting close to the subject site (refer section 6.2.1), which results in a net gain over time in terms of vegetation area, fauna habitat values and habitat connectivity.

(d) to provide utility services that are essential to the community’s needs in a manner that is in sympathy with the World Heritage values of the natural environment of the Island

The proposed works would provide sustainable public electricity generation for the island. The impacts on the island’s World Heritage values and natural environment have been assessed in detail in this report and supporting specialist studies. The assessments conclude that the proposed works are consistent with the protection of these values, subject to a series of environmental safeguards. An adaptive approach based on identified contingency measures would be used to account for any unexpected impacts.

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Clause 11 matters Clause 11 of the LEP specifies matters which must be satisfied before development consent is granted by the Board. These matters, the relevant sections of the Environmental Report and the extent to which the proposal meets the clause 11 requirements are summarised in Table 4-4 below.

Table 4-4 Clause 11 matters and relationship to the proposal and Environmental Report (ER)

Clause 11 requirement ER section Requirement met? a) the proposed development is consistent Section 4.3.1 The proposal is consistent with the objectives of with the aims of this plan and the Zone 7 - Environment Protection. Public utility objectives of any zone, as set out in the installations are permissible in the zone with plan, within which the development is development consent. Impacts to soils, habitat, proposed to be carried out biodiversity, scenic amenity and World Heritage values have been assessed in this report. b) there is an adequate area available for - Not relevant. the disposal or treatment of any effluent treatment of any effluent treatment or disposal system and any such system will not have any adverse impact on groundwater quality c) no part of the proposed development: Section 6.2.1 The proposed works would not affect Significant (i) will result in any damage to, or removal Native Vegetation mapped in the LEP (refer also of, significant native vegetation, or d) below). The turbines would be constructed in a (ii) will have a significantly adverse impact paddock dominated by exotic pasture and weeds. on the habitat of any plants, or animals, The small amount of native vegetation clearing that are native to the Island required for the road access would not be significant and would be adequately offset by restoration works. The impact on fauna (birds) using aerial habitat above the turbine site has been assessed as not likely to be significant, subject to environmental safeguards. d) access is, or will be, available to the Section 6.2.1 The widening of the access track to the turbine site of the proposed development site will result in the loss of up to 200m2 of native and the provision of any such access vegetation (not Significant Native Vegetation, will not: non-EEC). This will be offset by the restoration of (i) result in any damage to, or the removal similar vegetation and habitat connectivity of, significant native vegetation, or adjacent to the subject site. Clearing impacts to (ii) have a significantly adverse impact on vegetation and habitats would not be significant. the habitat of any plants, or animals, that are native to the Island e) any proposed landscaping will provide Section 6.2.1 The revegetation used to offset the small area of various species of plants that are native clearing resulting from the proposal would use to the Island and common in the locality indigenous species capable of pioneering the re- to enhance any significant native establishment of the local forest community. vegetation Restoration works would be consistent with the LHI Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan (LHIB 2002). Sterile grass seed may be used to quickly

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Clause 11 requirement ER section Requirement met? establish cover to protect soils on access track verge areas which are to remain cleared. f) the proposed development will not be Section 6.3.4 The proposed development would occur on low- adversely affected by any landform moderate hill slopes on shallow basalt soils and is limitations, including flooding, landslip, not likely to be affected by any landform unstable soils and steep slopes limitations. g) adequate services in respect of the Section 2.6.4 The proposed development would not require proposed development can be provided Section 6.2.7 services other than electrical and without significant additional cost to the communications connections. The turbines and Board or the community of the Island access track are expected to be maintained through existing staff and budget allocations, utilising savings from reduced diesel engine maintenance. h) the appearance of the proposed Section 6.2.3 The visual impact of the proposed development development (when considered by itself on the locality has been assessed as not likely to or in conjunction with existing buildings be significant. and works) will not have any significantly adverse impact on the locality i) the proposed development will not cause Section 6.2.3 The proposal will not cause any overshadowing of any significant overshadowing of adjoining land. The shadow flicker assessment adjoining land undertaken for the project concluded that no receiver would exceed the accepted exposure threshold and a number of practical mitigation options are available if required. j) the proposed development will not cause Section 6.2.7 The proposal will not significantly affect the any significant reduction in the privacy of privacy of occupiers of adjoining land. No staff occupiers of adjoining land. will be stationed at the subject site.

Environmental report Clause 42 of the LEP requires the Board to consider ‘an environmental report containing the matters specified in Schedule 3’ for public utility installations and undertakings, and development that is likely to have a significantly adverse impact on the environment. The content and structure of this Environmental Report for the current proposal reflects the requirements in Schedule 3 Contents of environmental report in the LEP. The summarised contents of an Environmental Report specified in Schedule 3 and the relevant sections in this Environmental Report are provided in Table 4-5.

Table 4-5 LEP Schedule 3 contents (summarised) and relevant section in Environmental Report for the proposal

LEP Schedule 3 Contents of environmental report Relevant section Summary statement Executive Summary Proposal objectives Section 2.1 Development analysis including proposal description, any superseded existing Section 6 and appendices developments, description of impacted environment (including significant

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impact and significant vegetation), impacts of the development (including soil contamination, biodiversity, air, noise and water pollution, hazards, traffic, climate, social and economic impacts, visual, erosion and sedimentation, heritage), mitigation measures Compilation of any rehabilitation measures Section 7 and Appendix A Reasons and justification, having regard to ESD principles Section 3 Section 9 Approvals required Section 4 Assessment of compatibility with World Heritage values Section 6.2.4 Visual impact assessment and mitigation Section 6.2.3 Assessment of impacts on a locality, place or building having aesthetic, Section 6.2.4 anthropological, archaeological, architectural, cultural, historical, scientific or social significance or other special value for present or future generations Justification in terms of LEP aims, zoning objectives and development controls Section 4.3.1 Feasible alternatives Section 3.5

Advertised Development Under Clause 41 of the LEP, applications for the following development must be advertised: (a) development for the purposes of public utility installations, (b) development for the purposes of public utility undertakings, (c) development that, in the opinion of the consent authority, is likely to have a significantly adverse impact on the environment. The proposed development is ‘Advertised Development’ under the LEP. Under the LHI Development Assessment Policy (2013), and in accordance with the EP&A Regulation 2000, the Board is to give public notification of the development application in the local newspaper for a minimum period of 14 days (non- integrated development).

Clause 39 Development affecting heritage items Under clause 39 of the LEP, approval from the Board is required for developments: (a) wholly or partially destroying, dismantling or defacing a heritage item, (b) altering a heritage item by making structural or non-structural changes to its exterior, such as to its detail, fabric, finish or appearance, (c) altering a heritage item by making structural changes to its interior, (d) moving the whole or any part of a heritage item, (e) erecting a building on, or subdividing, land on which a heritage item is located, (f) disturbing or excavating any land, while knowing, or having reasonable cause to suspect, that the disturbance or excavation will or is likely to result in a relic being discovered, exposed, moved, damaged or destroyed. The proposal is located outside the curtilages of Schedule 2 heritage items and would not directly affect any item. Approval under clause 39 is not considered to be required for the project.

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4.3.2 Lord Howe Island Development Control Plan 2005 The Lord Howe Island Development Control Plan 2005 (DCP) provides guidelines, objectives and controls for certain types of development on Lord Howe Island. The DCP provides design principles covering slope and soil stability, building orientation, climate, visual amenity, bulk and scale, building forms, materials and colours, energy and water efficiency, landscaping design and site access and parking. While predominantly relevant to buildings and subdivisions, the DCP provides objectives and principles that may be applicable to the development of built structures such as wind turbines. Relevant objectives of the DCP include:  to encourage quality design of residential and non-residential development  to ensure that the scale and appearance of new development is compatible with the island character  to protect and/or re-establish environmental integrity  to protect the community’s interests.

4.3.3 Lord Howe Island Biosecurity Strategy Deliveries of equipment and materials to the island must comply with the Lord Howe Island Biosecurity Strategy for (AECOM 2015) to minimise risks associated with alien pests and diseases. The Strategy has specific requirements for visiting barges, which would be included in a contract for the project if approved.

4.3.4 Lord Howe Island Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan Under Clause 31 of the LEP, development for the purposes of vegetation restoration must be carried out in accordance with the Lord Howe Island Board Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan, as adopted by the Board in March 2003. The restoration work which would be undertaken to offset the vegetation clearing resulting from the proposed works would meet relevant criteria in the Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan (LHIB 2002) for the selection of rehabilitation sites on the island. Section 3 of the plan includes the following criteria for prioritising highest priority sites (based on conservation objectives):  sites inside or bordering the Permanent Park Preserve with the object of preventing dieback of native vegetation  sites where there is natural resilience (ie remnant trees in a paddock). The proposed restoration works on Transit Hill upslope of the subject site would meet both of these criteria. Details of rehabilitation and restoration associated with the proposal are provided in section 7.

4.4 OTHER STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES

A range of other statutory and non-statutory guidelines are specifically applicable to wind farm development in Australia. These include:  Environment Protection and Heritage Council (2010) National Wind Farm Development Guidelines – Draft. July 2010  Clean Energy Council (CEC) (2013) Best Practice Guidelines for Implementation of Wind Energy Projects in Australia

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 Australian Wind Energy Association’s Wind Farms and Birds: Interim Standards For Risk Assessment (AusWind 2005)  Auswind and Australian Council of National Trusts (2007) Wind Farms and Landscape Values National Assessment Framework  Wind Farms and Heritage. Heritage Council Advice (NSW Heritage Office 2003)  Civil Aviation Safety Authority standards and AirServices Australia guidelines. These standards and guidelines have been applied and referenced where relevant in specialist assessments undertaken for the current proposal; refer section 6.

4.5 APPROVAL SUMMARY

A summary of planning and regulatory approvals required for the HREP Stage 2 wind turbine proposal is provided in Table 4-6. This report has been structured to meet the requirements for an Environmental Report under the LEP and a Statement of Environmental Effects under the EP&A Act. A separate referral to the Commonwealth Government has been prepared as part of the Commonwealth approval process.

Table 4-6 Summary of approvals required for the HREP Stage 2 wind turbine proposal

Approvals summary Commonwealth Government The proposal has potential to affect a World Heritage Property and a listed National Heritage Property (the Lord Howe Island Group). The current proposal will be referred to the Commonwealth Government under the EPBC Act to determine controlled action status and assessment and approval requirements.

State Government A Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) is required to enable assessment and approval under Part 4 of the EP&A Act. The SEE must meet the requirements of Section 111(1) of the Act and Clause 228 of the EP&A Regulation. Assessments of Significance undertaken in accordance with the EP&A Act conclude that the proposal is not likely to significantly affect any threatened species of community and an Environmental Impact Statement or Species Impact Statement is not required. Concurrence under the Heritage Act 1977 and an environment protection licence under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 are not considered to be required. The proposal is not considered to be Integrated Development or Designated Development under the EP&A Act.

Lord Howe Island Board The proposal is permissible with consent under the Lord Howe Island LEP 2010. An Environmental Report meeting the requirements of Clause 42 and Schedule 3 of the LEP is required for consideration by the Board (the consent authority). The proposal is Advertised Development under the LEP.

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5 CONSULTATION Community and stakeholder consultations relating to the project include the following activities:  Community-based Sustainable Energy Working Group (SEWG)  Development and implementation of the Community Engagement Plan, and associated community surveys and consultation visits  Public advertisement of the development application under clause 41 of the LEP (refer section 4.3.1)  Public presentation and exhibition of the draft Environmental Report.

5.1 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PLAN

A Community Engagement Plan (Jacobs 2016a, Appendix G) has been developed to guide the communications and engagement process for the HREP. The plan outlines:  The approach to engagement and level of consultation  The community profile and community concerns  Key messages and engagement tools, methods and timeframes  Potential issues, risks and mitigation measures  Communication responsibilities within the project team  An evaluation process. The development of the plan was informed by community surveys undertaken in 2011 and 2014 and a consultation visit held in December 2014. A Community Issues Report was produced following the 2014 consultation visit, and is summarised in the plan. The plan also identifies stakeholders for consultation including the Board, Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), Sustainable Energy Working Group (SEWG), NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH), NSW Trade and Investment - Renewable Energy Advocate, Commonwealth Department of the Environment, Member for Port Macquarie, resident families on the island, business owners and managers (including all lodge operators) and the Lord Howe Island Tourism Association.

5.1.1 Objectives of the plan The plan is intended for use by the project team to plan, implement and manage communication and consultation activities. The plan identifies the following communications and engagement objectives:  Avoid ‘reinventing the wheel’ by building upon learnings from previous consultation activity  Empower the Sustainable Energy Working Group (SEWG) to continue their valuable advocacy role for the implementation of renewable energy  Keep the community informed of project progress and ensure that target audience understands key messages  Focus communications around the community’s key issues  Provide ample opportunity for the community to learn about the project and provide feedback to the Board  Consider all community feedback when making project design decisions

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 Respond to all feedback appropriately and in a timely and respectful manner  Establish and maintain a ‘social licence to operate’ in the local community, to build support and reduce opposition  Enhance the sustainability profile of the Island  Leave a positive legacy within the community to enhance the Board’s reputation and relationship with the community.

5.1.2 Community position on renewable energy The SEWG carried out a community survey in January 2011 to inform the development of the Sustainable Energy Road Map. A second community survey was undertaken in April 2014, again led by the SEWG, to gauge community interest and investment potential in solar power as well as levels of support for wind turbines. The survey was completed by 160 people (54% of the island’s population) and showed 93% supported the installation of the wind turbines. During the consultation visit in December 2014, the levels of community and visitor support for renewable energy were sense checked using a ‘Quick Poll’ exercise at the monthly Community Markets at the school. The key findings include:  There are high levels of support from residents and visitors for the installation of wind turbines and a solar farm on the island and for renewable energy in general. Support for wind turbines, although high overall (89% support based on 90 respondents), was slightly lower than the support shown for solar panels (100% support based on 91 respondents)  Residents and visitors were both highly informed and knowledgeable about renewable energy indicating a good level of understanding about the project  Everybody who took part in the poll cared about where their energy comes from, and nobody thought the island should continue to rely on imported diesel.

5.1.3 Consultation visits Consultation visits undertaken for the proposal are summarised in Table 5-1 below.

Table 5-1 Consultation visits and community engagement undertaken on each

Consultation visit Materials and activities Purpose 1 – December 2014  Infographic postcard Community research exercise to understand  Question and Answer (Q&A) community concerns to produce a Community booklet Issues Report and inform the development of  Stall at Community Markets the Community Engagement Plan. 2 – May 2015  Postcard Continuation of ongoing engagement to  Noise factsheet present noise assessment results and continue  Q&A booklet (updated) to gather community feedback.  Stall at Community Markets  Individual meetings 3 – December 2015  Postcard Continuation of ongoing engagement to  Visitor survey provide update on status of project, launch  Stall at Community Markets visitor survey, advise of second noise  Tour guide information sheet assessment (undertaken at request of

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Consultation visit Materials and activities Purpose  Community investment community) and continue to gather discussion paper community feedback.  Museum display poster 4 – February 2016  Postcard Continuation of ongoing engagement to  Noise factsheet (updated) advise about approval of solar element of  Visual factsheet project, present updated noise results and  Q&A booklet (updated) visual impact assessment, feedback results of  Stall at Community Markets the visitor survey and continue to gather  Individual meetings community feedback.  Museum drop-in sessions 5 – May 2016  Postcard Continuation of ongoing engagement to hold  Q&A booklet (updated) community meeting (as requested by the  Community meeting community) to allow discussion with project (Samoan circle) team and noise expert about key issues, and continue to gather community feedback. 6 – September 2016  Postcard Continuation of ongoing engagement to  Q&A booklet (updated) launch public exhibition period and encourage  Environmental Report submissions on the development application. summary booklet  Submission forms  Individual meetings  Noise talks at Museum

5.1.4 Issues identified by the community The community surveys and consultation visits since 2014 indicated three main issues that are important to the community, all related to the proposed wind turbines: Noise and infrasound  Potential noise impacts on residents living nearest to the site (about 280 metres away), and visitors at the tourist accommodation nearest to the site (about 500 metres away)  Robustness and reliability of the noise assessment  Potential health impacts from wind turbine generated infrasound. Visual impacts  Perceived negative impact on World Heritage values and the island’s landscape  Visibility from several points on the Island, especially popular viewpoints on walking tracks  Options to eliminate the visual impact by just using solar energy generation  Options to consider smaller turbines to reduce the proposed blade tip height of 71 metres  Potential to paint the turbines a different colour to blend in with surroundings  Preference for consideration of alternative turbines to reduce visual impacts, e.g. vertical turbines (refer section 3.5.3).

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Wildlife impacts  Risk of bird and bat strikes on turbine blades and guy lines leading to significant impacts on threatened bird species  Migrating birds deterred from coming to the Island because of the wind turbines. Other relevant issues raised in community consultations include the financial impact of the project on the community (including burden of loan repayments and potential for increased sea freight costs in future), the speed of project development and allowing adequate time for community consultation, the need to recognise the draft NSW guidelines for wind turbines, the need to consider research underway to assess the impacts of infrasound on human health, and the adequacy and reliability of data from monitoring mast and specialist scientific studies.

5.1.5 Visitor Survey September-October 2015 A ten question survey of visitor views on the proposed hybrid renewable energy system was undertaken over a five week period from 13 September to 16 October 2015. The survey period included two weeks of school holidays. The surveys were completed at the survey launch at the Community Markets, the Coral Café at The Museum and the airport. A total of 202 surveys were completed. A report prepared by Jacobs (2015e) provides an analysis of the survey results and summarises key outcomes.

Respondent profile The age range of survey respondents reflected the typical demographic of island visitors; most respondents were aged above 55 (53%), with almost 80% of visitors over 40 years of age. 103 were female and 90 were male. 92% of respondents were Australian residents, mostly from New South Wales. The most popular reason for visiting the island is ‘Natural beauty (World Heritage site)’. ‘Wildlife and birds’ and ‘Sport or adventure’ were also popular reasons.

Accommodation Survey respondents stayed in a wide range of accommodation, with the most responses provided by guests from Pinetrees (32 people), Milky Way (21 people) and Somerset lodges (20 people). When choosing accommodation, visitors value a ‘Good night’s sleep’, followed by ‘Value for money’, ‘Location’, ‘Friendly and helpful staff’ and ‘cleanliness’. While Pinetrees is the closest lodge to the project site, visitor responses from that lodge did not suggest that the proximity to the site had an influence on their support for renewable energy or on their decision to return to the Island.

Renewable energy In terms of support for renewable energy in general, 102 respondents stated that they like both wind turbines and solar panels, however solar power was preferred over wind power with 19% of respondents people saying they ‘like solar panels but not wind turbines’. Only three people thought that renewable energy was not right for Lord Howe Island, with a further four saying they ‘don’t care where their energy comes from’ and 12 who didn’t feel informed enough to say. In terms of renewable energy on Lord Howe Island, 91% of respondents were either very supportive or supportive of solar panels, and 68% were very supportive or supportive of wind turbines. Only three people expressed a lack of support for solar panels, compared to 32 people saying they were very unsupportive or unsupportive of wind turbines.

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Impact on tourism 88% of respondents said that the presence of the hybrid renewable energy system on Lord Howe Island would make it more attractive to visit (76 people), that they would be more likely to return due to ecotourism benefits (50 people) or that it would not make any difference to their decision to visit the Island (67 people). Just over 10% of survey respondents (25 people) felt that the implementation of renewable energy on Lord Howe Island might impact their decision to visit the Island in future, with six people saying ‘it might put me off coming back’, 11 people saying it depends on the visual impact of the solar panels and wind turbines, and eight people saying it depends on the noise impacts of the wind turbines.

Implications for the project Overall, visitors are very supportive of the implementation of solar panels on the island and supportive of wind turbines on Lord Howe Island. Visitors felt that the presence of renewable energy on Lord Howe Island in the form of a hybrid system of solar panels, wind turbines and batteries would increase the likelihood of them visiting again, or not influence their decision to return at all. Of the 25 people (just over 10%) that might be put off coming back or whose decision might be influenced by the hybrid renewable energy system, several visitors were concerned about the negative visual impact of the wind turbines. There is a high level of support for renewable energy, especially solar panels, on the island amongst those visitors who value island’s natural beauty. The ability to have a good night’s sleep was the thing people valued most about their choice of accommodation, whereas views from the accommodation was one of the least valued factors. This indicates that potential noise impacts, particularly at night time, are likely to be of more concern to visitors than any visual impacts from their lodge. There is a high level of support for renewable energy, especially solar panels, on the island amongst those visitors who value a good night’s sleep as the most valuable feature of their accommodation.

5.1.6 Ongoing consultation The plan provides for continuing community information and consultation including the following tools and activities:  Written project updates and printed information (Question and Answer booklet, postcards, factsheets, project updates, posters)  Community-led group involvement (SEWG)  Individual meetings  Project website (www.lhib.nsw.gov.au/infrastructure/sustainable-energy)  Social media (Facebook page)  Community markets (or other community events)  Community meeting (Samoan Circle)  Media and awards  Technical tours  School visits and projects  Tourist information and branding  Community investment scheme  Opening event and time capsule  Surveys.

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Further consultation visits are planned throughout the project, involving individual meetings with the most affected residents and business operators, a stall at the Community Markets to discuss project progress with residents and visitors, and printed information in the form of factsheets, information postcards and an updated Question and Answer booklet. The consultation visits will aim to present information about project progress, address key issues, gather community feedback and assist the Sustainable Energy Working Group. Past and future consultation and communication activities are summarised in a Consultation Action Plan appended to the plan.

5.2 SUSTAINABLE ENERGY WORKING GROUP (SEWG)

The Board established the SEWG in September 2010, now comprising six members from the community (with one Board staff member). The SEWG assists the Board in the development of development of renewable energy for the island by identifying and assessing issues, developing strategies and making recommendations for consideration of the community, Board and Government agencies.

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6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT

6.1 RISK ASSESSMENT

The issues relevant to the assessment of impacts of the current proposal were scoped having consideration to the nature of the impacts and environment and the requirements of legislation and policies. The risk assessment is a method of quantifying the potential significance of impacts to environmental factors to better target impact assessment and mitigation. Risk ratings ranging from 1 to 5 have been applied to each issue for the nature of the impact, the sensitivity of the environment and the likelihood that an impact would occur. The range of risk ratings are defined in Table 6-1. These ratings are factored to produce an overall risk score for each issue: Overall risk rating = Impact (1-5) x Sensitivity (1-5) x Likelihood (1-5) The overall risk rating is then classified into high, moderate or low categories in accordance with Table 6-2. The risk assessment methodology is consistent with AS/NZ ISO 14004:2004 (Environmental Management Systems) and AS/NZ ISO 13000:2009 (Risk Management). Based on the risk assessment below, the environmental factors at greatest risk of impact (moderate-high risk) are:  Biodiversity  Noise  Visual and landscape character  World Heritage  National Heritage  State and local heritage  Social and economic values  Cumulative impacts. Specialist studies have been undertaken for biodiversity, visual and landscape character, noise and aviation factors.

Table 6-1 Risk rating of environmental aspects.

Sensitivity of receiving Nature of impact Likelihood environment 1 - Negligible 1 - Low 1 – Rare/never 2 - Minor 2 – Low to moderate 2 – Unlikely 3 - Moderate 3 - Moderate 3 – Possible 4 - Major 4 - High 4 – Likely 5 - Catastrophic 5 – Very high 5 – Highly likely/definitely

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Table 6-2. Overall risk rating classes

Overall risk rating Level of risk

1 - 20 Low 21-40 Moderate 41 + High

Table 6-3. Risk assessment of environmental issues

Nature of Receiver Likelihood of Section Issue Risk rating impact sensitivity occurrence 6.2.1 Biodiversity 3 5 4 60 6.2.2 Noise 3 4 4 48 6.2.3 Visual and landscape character 3 4 4 48 6.2.4 World Heritage 3 4 4 48 6.2.5 National Heritage 3 4 4 48 6.2.6 State and local heritage 3 3 3 27 6.2.7 Social and economic values 3 4 2 24 6.2.8 Cumulative impacts 3 4 2 24 6.3.1 Aviation safety 2 3 2 12 6.3.2 Traffic and access 2 3 2 12 6.3.3 Tenure, land use and resources 2 3 2 12 6.3.4 Physical natural values 2 1 3 6 6.3.5 Waste 2 3 1 6

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6.2 HIGHER RISK FACTORS

6.2.1 Biodiversity

Existing environment

FLORA AND ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES The proposed wind turbine site carries exotic pasture grasses, clovers and weeds, with few native species. Groundcover at the site is dominated by the exotic grasses Kikuyu (*Cenchrus clandestinus), Parramatta Grass (*Sporobolus africanus) and Paspalum (*Paspalum dilatatum), with a few common, hardy native species present around outcropping basalt.

Figure 6-1 Proposed wind turbine site, looking north-west along the ridgeline, with pasture dominated by the exotic grass Kikuyu (Cenchrus clandestinus).

The vegetation at the access track site belongs to the community Greybark-Blackbutt (Drypetes deplanchei–Cryptocarya triplinervis) Closed Forest described in DECC (2007); refer Figure 6-2. The community is the dominant lowland forest association on the island. The existing 5 to 9 metre wide track corridor passes through a narrow strip of Greybark-Blackbutt Closed Forest over a distance of approximately 50 metres. The existing track and turbine site paddock are currently grazed by cattle.

Figure 6-2 Existing access track, with disturbed Greybark-Blackbutt Closed Forest vegetation to be cleared to left (north-east) of the track.

The forest affected by the proposed access track clearing is a diverse but common assemblage of trees and medium-tall shrubs, with the overstorey dominated by Maulwood (Olea paniculata), Lignum Vitae (Sophora howinsula) and Greybark (Drypetes deplanchei). The lower strata are likely to have been

6625 Final 52 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES simplified by formerly dense Ground Asparagus cover and subsequent control treatments. The native sedge Carex brunnea, native forb Commelina cyanea and exotic grasses occur along the disturbed road verge. In addition to Greybark-Blackbutt Closed Forest, the other communities occurring around the subject site (turbine paddock) are Kentia Palm Closed Sclerophyll Forest and Lowland Mixed Closed Forest. Significant Native Vegetation mapped under the LEP also occurs around the subject site, outside the impact area.

FAUNA Typical of remote oceanic islands, the terrestrial vertebrate fauna of Lord Howe Island Group is dominated by birds. The exotic grassland at the proposed turbine site is unlikely to provide habitat resources of significant value to local fauna. Forest bird species regularly fly over the 40 to 100 metres between forest areas either side of the paddock. Seabirds use the air space above the paddock when crossing the island and when leaving and returning to nests during the breeding season. The microchiropteran Large Forest Bat forages for insects below the canopy in surrounding forests and over the turbine site. Bird surveys were conducted at the subject site by Ambrose Ecological Services (2016) during February, March and July 2016. 25 bird species were observed flying across the cleared paddock, with most flights comprising the Welcome Swallow, Lord Howe Silvereye, Magpie-lark and White-throated Needletail. Seabirds observed using air space above the paddock included the Flesh-footed Shearwater, Black-winged Petrel, Providence Petrel, Red-tailed Tropicbird, Sooty Tern and White Tern. About 86% of observed flight events across the paddock were 12 metres above ground level or less, 11.5% were between 12 and 24 metres, and only 2% greater than 24 metres. Flesh-footed Shearwaters in particular have a significant breeding ground to the immediate north-east of the site and were the subject of specific monitoring undertaken for the project (O’Neill and Carlile 2016). The closed forest area at the access track site provides habitat for a range of fauna species, particularly forest birds and invertebrates. The forest patch has less habitat value for species associated with weathered surface rock and deeper soils derived from calcarenite, such as the Flesh-footed Shearwater, Lord Howe Island Gecko and the Lord Howe Placostylus. The forest on the western and north-western sides of the subject site (including the access track site) has been modelled and mapped as High Quality (B) habitat for the endangered Lord Howe Placostylus. Based on current knowledge however the habitat would appear to be marginal and the presence of the species unlikely (refer Appendix A). The narrow belt of forest at the track site provides a potential corridor linkage for mobile forest fauna. Two dead Scalybark trees are present on the south-western side of the track, the upslope (eastern) one with a medium hollow providing potential roosting habitat for the Large Forest Bat (refer Figure 6-4).

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Figure 6-3 North-western end of existing access Figure 6-4 South-eastern end of existing access track track entering from cleared paddock. with dead Scalybark trees, one hollow-bearing.

THREATENED SPECIES AND COMMUNITIES The EPBC Act and NSW Atlas searches indicate 11 threatened flora species and 2 threatened communities for the island. No threatened or locally significant flora species were recorded at the subject site. Seven endemic taxa are present in the access track clearing area, all either community dominants or locally common. The database searches, threatened species evaluation and bird survey and assessment results indicate that 32 listed threatened and migratory fauna species have potential to utilise habitat at the subject site, and be impacted by the proposed works. These subject species, their conservation status, the habitat affected and potential impacts resulting from the proposed works are identified in Table 6-4.

Table 6-4 Subject threatened and migratory fauna species

Species Status Habitat and potential impacts Forest invertebrates Lord Howe Placostylus Placostylus bivaricosus E TSC, E EPBC Forest habitat loss and fragmentation. Seabirds Flesh-footed Shearwater Ardenna carneipes M, V TSC Aerial habitat at turbine site (tower/guy wire collision and bladestrike risk) Black-winged Petrel Pterodroma nigripennis V TSC Roads (construction traffic collision risk) Fork-tailed Swift Apus pacificus M Aerial habitat at turbine site (tower/guy wire collision and bladestrike risk) White-throated Needletail Hirundapus M caudacutus Little Shearwater Pufinus assimilis V TSC Wedge-tailed Shearwater Ardenna pacificus M Kermadec Petrel Pterodroma neglecta V EPBC, V TSC neglecta Providence Petrel Pterodrama solandri M, V TSC Masked Booby Sula dactylatra M, V TSC Red-tailed Tropicbird Phaethon rubricauda M, V TSC Cattle Egret Ardea ibis M

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Species Status Habitat and potential impacts Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva M Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres M Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Calidris acuminata M Red Knot Calidris canutus M, E EPBC Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea M, E EPBC, E TSC Red-necked Stint Calidris ruficollis M Latham’s Snipe Gallinago hardwickii M Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica M Eastern Curlew Numenius madagasariensis M, CE EPBC Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus M Grey-tailed Tattler Tringa brevipes M Wandering Tattler Tringa incana M Brown (Common) Noddy Anous stolidus M White Tern Gygis alba V TSC Sooty Tern Onychoprion fuscata V TSC Grey Ternlet Procelsterna cerulea V-TSC Forest birds Lord Howe Woodhen Gallirallus sylvestris V EPBC, E TSC Roads (construction traffic collision risk) Lord Howe Island Currawong V EPBC, V TSC Aerial habitat at turbine site (tower/guy Strepera graculina crissalis wire collision and bladestrike risk) Lord Howe Silvereye V TSC Zosterops lateralis tephropleura Lord Howe Golden Whistler V TSC Pachycephala pectoralis contempta

M – Migratory species under the Commonwealth EPBC Act V TSC - Vulnerable under Schedule 2 of the NSW TSC Act E TSC - Endangered under Schedule 1 of the NSW TSC Act V EPBC - Vulnerable under the Commonwealth EPBC Act E EPBC - Endangered under the Commonwealth EPBC Act CE EPBC - Critically Endangered under the Commonwealth EPBC Act

Impact assessment

CONSTRUCTION IMPACTS Flora and ecological communities The construction of the wind turbines would result in the temporary disturbance to and permanent loss of exotic pasture with no flora conservation value. A section of unsealed track in the north-west of the subject site would be upgraded and widened to provide construction access to the turbine site, removing up to 200 m2 of Greybark-Blackbutt Closed Forest (refer Figure 6-5). The clearing area would comprise a corridor

6625 Final 55 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES up to 5 metres wide on the north-eastern side of the existing track over a distance of 35 metres, tapering at both ends (up to 170 m2). Dead trees, and live palms and shrubs over a disturbed groundlayer would also be removed on the south-western verge of the existing track (up to 30 m2). The small-scale clearing of this common vegetation community would not be significant. The clearing would be offset by restoration of 0.17 hectares of similar forest close to the subject site (refer Appendix A).

Figure 6-5 Vegetation clearing required for access track widening (red). Image: Google Earth

The proposed clearing would not affect threatened flora or ecological communities, or Significant Native Vegetation mapped under the LEP. A small number of endemic species would be removed but these species are not uncommon locally and the loss of these plants would not significantly affect local populations. The risks from weeds and diseases associated with the works are manageable using current best practice guidelines and policies. Fauna Fauna impacts during the construction phase relate to habitat loss as a result of clearing for the access track, the potential for interference to habitat utilisation caused by construction noise and activity and risks to wildlife from construction traffic. The habitat loss resulting from the clearing of a small area of the common Greybark-Blackbutt Closed Forest is not expected to significantly affect local fauna populations. The habitat to be cleared is locally abundant and not likely to be critical or limiting for any fauna species. The widening of the access track from a corridor 5 to 6 metres wide to 9 metres wide would marginally increase fragmentation impacts. Volant species (birds, bats and insects) would not be affected. Species with poor dispersal capacity or an inability to cross open areas may be selectively affected by the increased road width and surface sealing. The clearing may also increase the exposure of some species to predation. The tree canopy and understorey either side of the road are expected to regenerate and reduce the barrier effects of the clearing over time. The works are not expected to result in significantly greater barrier effects for fauna than currently exist at the site. While the access track clearing site has been mapped as potential Placostylus habitat, habitat would appear to be marginal and the presence of the species unlikely based on current knowledge. The habitat loss and fragmentation impacts of the proposal are not expected to significantly affect this species (refer Appendix A). A set of contingency measures are included below to account for the possible presence of Placostylus at the site.

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Two dead Scalybark trees at the southern end of the access track may require removal. The southern (upslope) tree is hollow-bearing, and provides potential habitat for hollow-dependent fauna such as the Large Forest Bat (Figure 6-4). This species is colonial, with up to 80 individuals occupying a roost site. Disturbance to a maternity colony may disrupt the breeding cycle and during the winter torpor period may use up critical energy reserves. If possible, the hollow-bearing tree should be retained and fenced during the works. Clearing protocols are provided if this tree cannot be retained, including pre-works inspections and clearing outside the Large Forest Bat September – March breeding and winter hibernation periods. The increase in traffic during the construction phase has potential to increase risks to fauna from vehicle collisions. Seabirds which breed close to the subject site include the Black-winged Petrel (Joys Hill, Middle Beach Road, November-May) and Flesh-footed Shearwater (Clear Place, September-May) are at particular risk during the breeding season. Young birds are at risk on roads during April-May before fledging and after the adults have left the island. Up to 185 Flesh-footed Shearwaters are estimated to be killed by cars each year (Reid 2010). Most of the construction will occur outside the seabird breeding period, reducing the duration of risk to seabirds. Construction traffic associated with the project would generally be restricted to daylight hours and speed limited on Anderson Road to protect birds on roads. Intermittent noise, vibration and activity during the construction period may cause localised disturbance to fauna. Work would not occur at night. The mitigation measures for the project (refer below) state that no blasting associated with the construction of the turbine foundations would occur during Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding season of the (November to April) to avoid disturbances to brooding adults and chicks. The Flesh-footed Shearwater nests in close proximity to residences and roads on the island and is likely to be tolerant of some level of daytime disturbance such as routine maintenance and minor works. The limited noise and physical disturbances caused by the works are expected to be highly localised and outside the seabird nesting period and are not considered likely to significantly affect fauna over the medium-long term.

OPERATION IMPACTS The principal operational impacts of the proposed wind turbines are associated with bladestrike risks to birds and bats. Bats are also susceptible to mortality from barotrauma when passing close to spinning turbine blades. Other potential impacts include collision with standing obstacles such as guy wires, increased traffic and fauna roadkill risk, disruptive effects of turbine lighting and the alienation of habitat. Threatened, endemic and migratory birds The potential bladestrike impacts on threatened, endemic and migratory bird species have been identified in the specialist bird impact assessment undertaken by Ambrose Ecological Services (2016), provided in Appendix A. The proposal has the potential to affect 7 seabird species that fly over the subject site (Flesh- footed Shearwater, Little Shearwater, Black-winged Petrel, Red-tailed Tropicbird, Black Noddy, Sooty Tern and White Tern), 7 terrestrial bird species and their habitats (White-throated Needletail, Welcome Swallow, Australian Kestrel, Magpie-lark, Lord Howe Pied Currawong, Lord Howe Silvereye and Lord Howe Woodhen), 2 migratory shorebirds (Whimbrel and Pacific Golden Plover) and one heron species (White- faced Heron). 10 threatened bird species and 7 listed migratory bird species were observed flying across the cleared paddock during the bird survey periods (O’Neill and Carlile 2016, Ambrose Ecological Services 2016). An additional 4 threatened species and 14 migratory species have the potential to fly low over the subject site, but were not observed during the survey periods.

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Based on the bird survey results, the proposed Vergnet turbines have the lowest collision risk of the turbine options. No birds were observed flying through the blade area at turbine location WTG2. Two Red-tailed Tropicbird flight events were recorded at WTG1, representing 12.5% of observed Red-tailed Tropicbird flights over the subject site, but only 0.08% of observed flights of all bird species over the site. The XANT turbines would have had greater impact on birds, affecting the flight paths of 6 species and 1.1% of all observed bird flights. Seven-part tests of significance for NSW threatened species and Assessments of Significance for Commonwealth-listed threatened and migratory species conclude that the proposal would not result in significant impact to these species, subject to the implementation of avoidance and mitigation measures identified in the bird assessment report (included in the Biodiversity Assessment and Environmental Report). While neither the Vergnet nor XANT turbine options are likely to lead to the extinction of locally viable bird populations or affect their conservation status, the XANT turbine has greater potential for impact because of the lower rotor height. The adoption of one of the Vergnet turbine options is recommended to minimise risks to threatened birds. Further surveys of flight patterns of diurnal birds, especially seabirds, early in the breeding season (September-December) are recommended (Ambrose Ecological Services 2016). Flesh-footed Shearwater O’Neill and Carlile (2016) also observed the Flesh-footed Shearwater using the airspace where WTG1 and WTG2 are proposed. This study concluded that the bladestrike risks from the proposed turbines could threaten the safety of the local colony. Infrequent but large aggregations of birds within the turbine airspace creates the risk of a mass bird strike. The report recommends a series of mitigation measures to reduce bladestrike risks to the Flesh-footed Shearwater, including evening turbine shutdown during the breeding season, regeneration of nesting habitat along the Middle Beach - Valley of the Shadows - The Clear Place walkway, development of an adaptive management plan with shutdown triggers based on mortalities, mortality and injury impact monitoring and long-term monitoring of breeding success in the sub-colony and elsewhere on the island. The report notes that even with a dusk shutdown, collision risk would still remain for birds accessing the colony over the paddock since a substantial proportion of birds arrive after the dusk shutdown period. The report identifies a dusk to dawn shutdown throughout the entire breeding season as a last resort measure that would ensure the proposal would not significantly impact the Flesh-footed Shearwater, which is largely nocturnal when on and over land. Microbats Microbats flying close to turbines may be killed by bladestrike or barotrauma, which involves lung damage caused by rapid changes in air pressure. The only bat species on Lord Howe Island is the Large Forest Bat (Vespadelus darlingtoni), which is also found widely in south eastern Australia (DECC 2007). This colonial tree-roosting species forages at and below forest canopy level and is present at the subject site. The specialist study assessing the potential impact of the wind turbines on this species (Fly By Night Bat Surveys 2016) found that activity levels in the turbine paddock were very low when compared with activity in adjacent forest. Within the paddock activity was highest near ground level and was an order of magnitude lower at 20 metres height. While activity was low even at 2 metres, activity at 20 metres height was negligible. No activity was recorded at 40 metres height. These results indicate that the Large Forest Bat does not currently forage in or commute through the turbine paddock area to a substantial extent. The small number of bats passing over the pasture do so close to ground level. The likelihood of the Large Forest

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Bat passing through the swept rotor area of the proposed turbines is low and the species is unlikely to be significantly affected by the operating turbines.

Environmental safeguards Table 6-5 and Error! Reference source not found. outlines safeguards intended to avoid or reduce the impacts of the construction and operation of the proposed wind turbines on flora and ecological communities and fauna. Some of the safeguards have been adapted from measures recommended for the new powerhouse construction in 2012, in the Planning Assessment Report (LHIB 2012b). Some safeguards indicated for flora and ecological communities are also relevant for fauna and have not been repeated.

Table 6-5 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate flora and ecological community impacts

Safeguard Phase Training and induction The induction of project staff should emphasise the ecological sensitivity of the site. Staff Construction should be made aware of significant vegetation features, potential environmental risks, environmental protection measures (including travelling to and from the site), and emergency response protocols and equipment.

Site protection The clearing of native vegetation at the access track site should be the minimum Construction required to allow access of construction vehicles and machinery. The extent of clearing should be marked with tape or pegs to ensure no overclearing. Where practicable and adequate for construction access, native shrubs and vines should Construction be trimmed and retained on the road verge rather than cleared to encourage regeneration and reduce the vigour of exotic grasses and weeds at the edge of the forest. Vehicle access and parking and materials and equipment laydown should be confined to Construction disturbed pasture areas dominated by exotic grasses. These activities should not be undertaken within the dripline of forest trees at the site. Stockpiles of soil, gravel or other materials should be protected from runoff and Construction contained using sediment fencing to prevent sedimentation of adjacent native vegetation and habitat areas. All sediment control must use clean sediment fencing, rather than haybales to prevent Construction the importation of weeds and exotic insects. Native vegetation to be retained at the access track site, and native dune vegetation Construction either side of the Waste Management Facility barge landing ramp and track, should be fenced or otherwise clearly marked during the construction period to prevent peripheral or accidental impacts. Biosecurity and weed control Excavated materials imported for the project should be certified Virgin Excavated Construction Natural Material to minimise weed risks. The noxious weeds Ground Asparagus, Sweet Pittosporum and Cherry Guava should be Pre-construction controlled at the subject site prior to the works to assist the recovery of native species. Construction The occurrence of these and other noxious and invasive weeds should be monitored and controlled at the site for at least one year following the works. All earthmoving equipment, tools and any prefabricated barrier fencing etc imported to Construction the island for construction should be cleaned of any soil, insects and pathogens and certified as clean prior to their departure. To prevent the spread of Phytopthora and

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Safeguard Phase Myrtle Rust all tools etc that have been exposed to soil must be cleaned with Phyto- clean prior to importation. Equipment and materials should remain in quarantine at the LHI jetty or point of arrival until cleared by the LHI MEWH. The National Best Practice Guidelines for managing Phytophthora cinnamomi for Construction biodiversity conservation (Gara et al. 2005) and the Arrive Clean, Leave Clean guidelines (DOE 2015) and the Lord Howe Island Biosecurity Strategy (AECOM 2016) should be applied to prevent the introduction and spread of pests and diseases at the site. Rehabilitation, restoration and offsetting Soils excavated from trenches should be reinstated by restoring the original soil profile Construction to retain the seed bank and site productivity. Any topsoil stripped from parts of the site carrying native vegetation should be stored Construction and reused in revegetation at the site to encourage regeneration from soil-borne propagules. Vegetation cleared from the site should be chipped and spread on bare areas, or used as Construction mulch for restoration planting at the offset site. Subject to continued accessibility for maintenance of the turbines, consideration should Operation be given to revegetating disturbed areas beside the upgraded access track to reduce vegetation loss and fragmentation impacts. Any restoration work should follow the guidelines in the Lord Howe Island Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan 2002-2007 (LHIB 2002). If practicable, the tree canopy either side of the access track should be allowed to grow Construction back over the track corridor following the construction phase to reduce fragmentation Operation impacts and improve resilience against weeds. The loss of native vegetation should be offset with restoration planting and site Construction protection consistent with the proposed biodiversity offset described in Appendix A. Operation

Table 6-6 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate fauna impacts

Safeguard Phase Turbine selection and design Of the turbine options, the 200 kW Vergnet wind turbines at locations WTG1 and/or WTG2 Planning are preferred to minimise bird impacts. Construction Any navigation lights on the turbine towers used for scheduled or emergency night flights Planning would be remotely activated, red in colour and solid (ie. not flashing). The lights would Construction only be visible from elevations at or above the light. Operation If any white light is used during operation, the turbines should be shut down while the lights are on, in case the FFSW are attracted to the light. Pre-construction bird surveys Surveys should be conducted recording the flight patterns of diurnal birds, especially Pre-construction seabirds, early in their breeding season (September-December) to further assess potential impacts of the turbines on the status of Lord Howe Island’s bird populations. These surveys should be conducted monthly, over three consecutive days per month. The conclusions of the assessment should be reviewed following the completion of these surveys, and if required safeguards be developed and implemented.

Tree clearing

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Safeguard Phase If possible, the dead hollow-bearing Scalybark tree at the southern end of the access Construction track site should be retained, and fenced during the works to avoid accidental damage. If the tree needs to be removed, the following protocol should be followed:  if practicable, clearing should avoid the September-February breeding period and the winter hibernation period of the Large Forest Bat (ie clear during autumn)  hollows present in the tree should be inspected well before the clearing, and again immediately prior to clearing  a potential translocation site should be identified prior to the works. Note that the Large Forest Bat is a colonial species and there may be many individuals to relocate  the MEWH, an ecologist or wildlife carer should be present during tree felling to inspect the tree before and after felling  where practicable hollow-bearing trees should be removed in a manner which causes least disturbance to resident fauna. Any dead Scalybark trees which require removal should be used as log habitat in adjacent Construction forest. Threatened species protection The proposed access road clearing area and a 5 metre wide buffer should be searched for Pre-works Lord Howe Placostylus individuals and shells prior to the works. If shells or live snails are Construction found, consideration should be given to additional measures to reduce habitat loss and Operation barrier impacts including:  relocating any live individuals into adjacent habitat areas  redistributing litter on the track verges and adjacent areas  if possible, retaining an unsealed 3 metre wide track, with a vegetated ground surface and gravelled traction strips for vehicle access as required  minimising shrub and tree clearing  following construction, using fencing and planting, reduce the track corridor width to the minimum necessary for ongoing operation of the turbines  excluding cattle grazing in the track section passing through potential Placostylus habitat to protect snails and assist the restoration of vegetation cover  allowing the adjacent tree canopy to grow over the track corridor  undertaking follow-up control of Ground Asparagus and other weeds at the site  intensifying and expanding local rat baiting if required. Turbine operation should be curtailed during the peak daily return period of Flesh- Operation footed Shearwaters to the nesting and roosting colony i.e. from 15 minutes before dusk to 2 hours after dusk during the Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding season (15 September to 15 May). In the infrequent event that the turbines are covered in low cloud, mist or fog and the Operation prevailing wind speed is above the turbine cut-in speed (3-3.5 m/s), the turbines would be shut down to avoid bladestrike risks to birds. The maximum extent of works should be fenced or clearly marked on the north-eastern Construction side of the turbine paddock to avoid peripheral impacts to the Flesh-footed Shearwater colony.

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Safeguard Phase Fencing around turbine guy anchors should not use barbed wire and should not create Construction an entrapment hazard for the Flesh-footed Shearwater. A minimum 200mm gap should be left between the ground and lower fence wire. Grass should be kept low under the fences. To avoid significant disturbances to brooding adults and chicks, no blasting associated Construction with the construction of the turbine foundations would occur during Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding season of the (15 September to 15 May). Measures to minimise traffic impacts on seabirds and the Lord Howe Island Woodhen Construction should include:  construction traffic should be restricted to daylight hours (except for emergencies)  construction traffic between September and May should be subject to a speed limit of 15 km/hr on Anderson Road between Middle Beach Road and the subject site  staff induction should cover traffic restrictions and species at risk from vehicle collisions  construction works should be organised to minimise vehicle movements. If practicable, trenches for underground cabling should be covered or filled overnight. Construction Where this is not possible, trenches should be inspected each morning and any trapped native wildlife released into nearby suitable habitat. The Board’s Manager Environment/World Heritage should be notified immediately if any threatened species (Placostylus, Lord Howe Skink, Lord Howe Gecko) are detected in the excavations.

Biosecurity Any materials transferred to the site from elsewhere on the island should be inspected Construction for African Big-headed Ants, rodents and other introduced pest species prior to movement.

Monitoring, response and adaptive management An Adaptive Management Plan (AMP) should be developed and in place before the start Planning of the operational phase of the project. The AMP should incorporate threshold numbers Operation of mortalities for threatened and migratory bird species which triggers an interim shutdown of the turbines while additional mitigation actions are determined in consultation with experts and considering additional recruitment resulting from any offsetting measures. The AMP should detail management responses to unexpectedly high mortalities of Planning threatened and migratory bird species, or significant changes in breeding success or Operation habitat utilisation. The following contingency responses should be included:  A Flesh-footed Shearwater nesting habitat restoration program involving construction of a raised walkway over part of the Middle Beach – Valley of the Shadows - Clear Place walking track implemented to offset potential mortalities caused by the project.  Artificial burrows provided for the Flesh-footed Shearwater in suitable habitat areas away from the turbine site as a biodiversity offset. The size of the biodiversity offset and the number of artificial burrows required would need to be calculated by an accredited biodiversity offset specialist in consultation with an expert in seabird ecology. The nests would need to be monitored regularly

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Safeguard Phase throughout the breeding season for at least three years, and assessed against turbine mortalities and breeding success in the existing colony adjacent to the turbine site, to determine the effectiveness of compensation.  Turbine operation curtailed each night of the Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding season (15 September to 15 May), from 30 minutes before dusk until at least 60 minutes after dawn. Depending on the circumstances of the bladestrikes, additional mitigation actions may Planning include extending or altering the timing of the turbine shutdown, shutting down during Operation certain conditions (wind speed, wind direction, low visibility) or investigating technical options such as ornithological radar. The AMP and effectiveness of measures for avoiding, reducing and offsetting bird Operation fatalities from turbine collisions should be reviewed and, if necessary revised, at least annually, or more frequently in circumstances of high bird mortality. The impact of the operating turbines on Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding success and Operation range of the colony should be monitored for three years after the commissioning of the turbines, then twice more at three year intervals. After this period, the monitoring program should be reviewed. Monitoring should be undertaken in the sub-colony close to and distant from the turbines, in other sub-colonies on the island, and in the Middle Beach - Valley of the Shadows - The Clear Place habitat regeneration area (if applicable). Commencing during installation, the subject site and adjacent areas should be inspected Operation daily for dead bird and bat carcasses throughout the first breeding season post- construction. Any birds or bats found dead must be sent for autopsy as soon as possible, and injured animals should be handled humanely. Any deaths or injuries should be recorded. The duration and frequency of these inspections over subsequent breeding seasons should be determined as part of the AMP, considering data from the first season. Grass around the turbines should be kept short (<10cm) using grazing. Microbat echolocation call monitoring should also be undertaken for the first year following commissioning. The nocturnal behaviour and movements of Flesh-footed Shearwaters in the air space Operation above and adjacent to the site should be monitored monthly, sampling over at least three successive nights each month of the breeding cycle (October-April) to determine if there are any collisions with the turbines or guy cables. The Adaptive Management Plan, the results of monitoring and the implementation of Operation any additional mitigation measures under the plan should be published on the Board website. The results of collision and nest site monitoring should be made available at least annually to the Office of Environment and Heritage. Measures for reducing or avoiding bird fatalities from turbine collisions should be Operation reviewed and, if necessary revised at least annually, or more frequently in the unlikely circumstances of high bird mortality.

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6.2.2 Noise and vibration impacts

Existing environment

COMMUNITY CONCERN Community surveys and consultations regarding the wind turbine project conducted since 2014 (Jacobs 2016a) have found that potential noise impacts are of significant concern to many people on the island, in particular:  concerns from and on behalf of the residents living nearest to the site (about 280 metres away)  concern over impacts on visitors at the tourist accommodation nearest to the site (about 500 metres away)  concern about the robustness and reliability of the noise assessment. A visitor survey conducted in September-October 2015 (Jacobs 2015e) found that visitors value the ability to have a good night’s sleep in their choice of accommodation, indicating that potential noise impacts, particularly at night time, are likely to be of more concern to visitors than visual impacts from their lodge. However, there was a high level of support for renewable energy, especially solar panels, on the island amongst those visitors who rated a good night’s sleep as the most valuable feature of their accommodation.

ASSESSMENT APPROACH Construction noise impacts have been assessed using the Interim Construction Noise Guideline (DECC 2009). In relation to operational noise emissions, Hutchison Weller were engaged to measure background noise levels and assess wind turbine noise impacts. The Hutchison Weller (2016a) noise assessment involved background noise and meteorological monitoring, modelling to predict turbine noise at relevant receivers and assessment against relevant noise criteria. The assessment considers the impacts of three turbine models:  XANT M21 100 kW  Vergnet 200 kW MP-C LNn (low noise model with insulated nacelle and gearbox)  Vergnet 200 kW MP-C (without noise insulation). The island was divided into four receiver catchments. Background noise levels and wind speed/direction were recorded within each receiver catchment over four weeks in January and February 2015. Supplementary monitoring was completed in August 2015. Measurements were undertaken in line with the IEC 61400-11 standard Wind turbine generator systems – Part 11: Acoustic noise measurement techniques. Noise levels from the proposed turbines were predicted at relevant receivers using the Soundplan acoustic model. The results incorporate noise emission data provided by the turbine manufacturer and worst-case wind conditions. Predicted noise levels at receiver locations have been compared to noise amenity criteria derived from the Draft NSW Planning Guidelines for Wind Farms (DPI 2011); refer below. Further details regarding methodology and technical aspects of the assessment can be found in Appendix D. The EPA has undertaken a peer review of the 2015 noise assessments and provided some comments which the noise consultant has addressed. In addition, acoustic expert Dr Renzo Tonin has undertaken an independent review of the 2016 noise assessment.

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NOISE ASSESSMENT GUIDELINES Interim Construction Noise Guideline Sources of noise emissions associated with construction of the wind turbines would include the use of on- site machinery, vehicle movements and other construction-related activities. The DECC (2009) construction noise guidelines are intended to provide respite for residents exposed to excessive construction noise outside the recommended standard hours whilst allowing construction during the recommended standard hours without undue constraints. The guidelines identify sensitive receivers, including residences, classrooms, hospitals, places of worship and recreational areas such as parks and sports grounds. The guidelines also contain recommended standard work hours for construction activities to minimise potential noise impacts:  Monday to Friday 7 am to 6 pm  Saturday 8 am to 1 pm  No work Sundays or public holidays. The guidelines provide that works which are not likely to affect an individual or sensitive land use for more than three weeks can be assessed using a qualitative method. A quantitative noise assessment is required where construction noise affects sensitive receivers for more than three weeks. The guidelines state that: For works undertaken during standard working hours residences are considered noise affected when construction noise is 10 dB(A) above the background level and highly noise affected when construction noise is above 75 dB(A). Construction noise would be produced during discrete stages of the project; access track widening, establishment of the turbine foundations, construction of the turbines and installation of underground cabling. These works would be intermittent and each stage would not exceed 3 weeks’ duration, and the nearest residential receiver is located 280 metres from the subject site. A qualitative assessment of construction noise is therefore considered to be appropriate for the project. Using the qualitative assessment approach, mitigation actions may be required when:

 the noise from the source is loud either in an absolute sense or relative to other noise sources in the area  the noise includes tones or impulses  the noise occurs at times when interference with sleep or comfort is likely – for example, at night (DECC 2009). Wind farm noise guidelines The noise criteria and methods applied for the assessment are detailed in the Draft NSW Planning Guidelines for Wind Farms (DPI 2011). These methods are generally consistent with the South Australian EPA (2009) Wind farms environmental noise guidelines and Australian Standard AS4959 – 2010 Acoustics – Measurement, prediction and assessment of noise from wind turbine generators. Under the NSW guidelines, as applied to sensitive receivers located in quiet rural areas, the predicted equivalent noise level (Leq, 10 minute) should not exceed the greater of: 35 dB(A), or

the background (L90) noise level by more than 5 dB(A).

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The guidelines also require separate criteria to be established for daytime (7am to 10pm) and night time (10pm to 7am) periods. In addition, noise criteria were established for the project for day and night over winter and summer.

RELEVANT RECEIVERS Relevant receivers include residents and accommodation providers with potential to be affected by the turbine noise. The island was divided into four receiver catchments:  Eastern coastal  Central/Joy’s Shop area  Western coastal  Southern.

The locations of relevant receivers are shown on Figure 6-6Error! Reference source not found.. Most relevant receivers are northwest of the turbines; these receivers may be affected by winds from the southeast. Receivers to the south are screened by the island’s topography and are not likely to experience noise levels greater than the minimum 35 dB(A) criterion.

BACKGROUND NOISE Lord Howe Island has a naturally elevated level of background noise due to natural noise sources, including wind in the palm trees and surf noise on the reef and beaches. The diesel powerhouse located near the proposed turbine site is inaudible from the nearest receivers (GHD 2013 in Hutchison Weller 2016) and does not contribute to the background noise level. During the warmer months, insect noise provides a relatively constant background noise level during the day and evening. Insect noise consists of higher frequencies of around 2000 - 6000 Hz and will not mask the lower frequency turbine noise. The quieter winter months are the more critical time of assessment. Winds from the southeast are likely to impact the greatest proportion of the island’s population to the north and northwest of the turbines. Easterly winds would also represent a risk of adverse impact to the Pinetrees Lodge to the west of the site. Easterly and south-westerly winds are dominant on the island.

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Figure 6-6 Proposed turbine locations and relevant receivers (from Hutchison Weller 2016)

Background noise levels were measured in summer (6 January to 4 February 2015) and winter (3 August and 29 August 2015) at four representative locations within the 35 dB(A) contour line. The background noise and noise sources detected at each site is summarised in Table 6-7Error! Reference source not found..

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Table 6-7 Background noise and noise sources at representative receiver locations

Distance from Background noise level LA90 Receiver location Noise sources turbines Day Night M1 Cobby’s Corner 1600m 41 34 Cicadas (day), night insects, lapping - southern coastal waves, traffic, breeze in trees M2 Rear of Pinetrees 480m 41 35 Breeze in trees dominant, - west coastal laundry/refrigeration, distant cicadas, people in accommodation, distant power station M3 Pauli’s house 280m 44 42 Surf, birds in trees - eastern coastal M4 near Joy’s shop 680m 45 36 Cicadas (day), breeze in trees, night - central island insects, traffic

IN-ROOM BACKGROUND NOISE MEASUREMENTS Hutchison Weller (2015a) undertook in-room noise monitoring at the Pinetrees Lodge to establish existing levels of noise under a number of scenarios. The monitoring was completed between 6pm and 7pm in August 2015 in Room 37. This room faces Transit Hill and is around 15m2 with a covered outdoor area. The external façade contains a well-sealing aluminium framed door and 2 panels of floor-to-ceiling louvres. The room is furnished with a bed, desk, bar fridge and ceiling fan. Monitoring was undertaken in the centre of the room using a calibrated Sound Level Meter mounted on a tripod at around 1.5 metres above ground. A number of scenarios was tested to establish representative noise levels within the room, including fridge and fan on and off, and one louvre panel open and closed. Noise levels outside the door were also measured. The assessment found that the Transit Hill rooms are very quiet, providing a 15-16 dB reduction in noise from outside to inside. The fan was inaudible but the fridge is noisy relative to the low background level.

NOISE CRITERIA FOR LORD HOWE ISLAND Project-specific noise assessment criteria have been developed for day and night, for different wind speeds, for each receiver location; refer below and Appendix D. These criteria are limits which are intended to preserve the amenity on the island for residents and visitors, particularly during the night. The acoustic environment on the island is influenced by noise sources other than wind conditions. Insect noise, particularly during the day and evening, and waves provide a relatively constant background level. The background noise level is several decibels louder during the day than at night when insects are not as prevalent.

VIBRATION The proposed works would produce ground vibration caused by the use of construction machinery and blasting for the turbine foundations. For the purposes of the current project, blasting is the principal source of vibration with potential to affect the environment and sensitive receivers. The Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC) Technical Basis for Guidelines to Minimise Annoyance due to Blasting Overpressure and Ground Vibration (1990) provides criteria for the

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Impact assessment

CONSTRUCTION NOISE The proposed works are considered unlikely to result in unacceptable amenity impacts during the construction period. The nearest residential receiver is 280 metres from the subject site, along the construction traffic access route. An increased traffic noise would occur during the construction period. Construction traffic speed and timing would be managed to minimise noise and other impacts (refer section 6.3.2). Construction noise would be intermittent, allowing respite between construction stages. Works would be confined to daylight hours. Additional measures to avoid and minimise construction noise impacts are provided below. These measures would include notification and consultation with neighbours and the establishment of an accessible and responsive complaints process.

OPERATING TURBINE NOISE LEVELS Wind moving across the blade is the dominant noise source for most modern turbines (gearboxes are now generally very quiet). The predicted noise levels for the operating XANT and low noise Vergnet turbine options are shown in Error! Reference source not found.Table 6-8 and Table 6-9Error! Reference source not found.. XANT M21 turbines The criteria for winter and summer nights would be achieved. The highest predicted noise levels were within the Eastern Coastal catchment, with levels of up to 39 dB(A) likely to be experienced at hub height wind speed of 10 m/s and above. Specific findings include:  at southern receivers, the turbines are likely to be inaudible under all wind speed conditions  at central receivers, the turbines would be likely to be inaudible around 90% of the time during summer and winter months  in the eastern coastal area, the turbines may be audible around half the time  for western coastal receivers, the turbines would be audible for around 50% of the time at wind speeds over 7 m/s in the winter and 9 m/s in the summer but largely inaudible at lower wind speeds.

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Table 6-8 XANT derived noise criteria and predicted noise levels at receiver locations

Vergnet MP-C LNn turbines The criteria for winter and summer nights should be achieved. The highest predicted noise levels were within the Eastern Coastal catchment, with levels of up to 45 dB(A) for hub height wind speeds of 12 m/s and above. While the turbines may be audible at some receiver locations, the most stringent criteria (for the night period) are not likely to be exceeded and the risk of adverse amenity impacts is low. Specific findings include:  at southern receivers, the turbines are likely to be inaudible under all wind speed conditions  at central receivers, the turbines would likely be inaudible around 90% of the times during summer and winter months when wind speeds are below 6m/s. At wind speeds above 6 m/s, the turbines would be audible around 50% of the time  in the eastern coastal area, noise levels are in the bottom range at night time when wind speeds are less than 6 m/s. At higher wind speeds, the turbines may be audible around 50% of the time during the winter and summer months  at receivers in the western coastal area, noise levels are in the bottom range at night time when wind speeds are less than 6 m/s. At higher wind speeds, the turbines may be audible around 50% of the time during the winter and summer months. While noise levels at receivers 30 and 31 in the eastern coastal catchment are predicted to be higher than in other catchments due to their proximity to the turbines, higher background noise levels should effectively mask turbine noise in this location and predicted noise levels would be below the assessment criteria.

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Table 6-9 Vergnet low noise model derived noise criteria and predicted noise levels at receiver locations

LOW FREQUENCY, INFRASOUND AND TONALITY Tonality Tonal noise is a sharply defined note at a frequency that stands out from the background noise, and can result from air turbulence around the turbine blades. An analysis of tonal noise characteristics was undertaken using manufacturer’s data and measured turbine noise at an existing facility with three operating Vergnet MP-C (non-acoustically treated) turbines. No tonal characteristics were identified and none are expected at the nearest relevant receivers. Low frequency noise Low frequency noise refers to unwanted sound occurring in the lower frequency range, generally between 10 Hz and 200 Hz. The draft NSW Guideline describes low frequency noise as typically not a significant feature of modern turbine noise and is generally less than that of other environmental noise sources. An analysis of low frequency noise characteristics was undertaken using manufacturer’s data and measured turbine noise at an existing facility with three operating Vergnet MP-C (non-acoustically treated) turbines. No low frequency noise characteristics were identified. The nearest relevant receivers are not likely to experience low frequency noise characteristics, with predicted levels below the 60 dB(C) night time criterion applied in the Draft NSW Guideline; refer Error! Reference source not found..

Table 6-10 Predicted low frequency (LCeq, 10 minute) noise levels against criteria

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Infrasound Infrasound is very low frequency noise between 1 Hz and 20 Hz (ISO 7196) and can be perceived if the level is high enough. There is no widely accepted assessment criteria for potential annoyance due to infrasound, and assessments are usually undertaken based on a threshold of perception. ISO 7196 describes noise levels measured below 90 dB(G) as not normally being significant to human perception. The Draft Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management’s EcoAccess Guideline – Assessment of low frequency noise recommends an internal noise limit of 85 dB(G) for dwellings. A criterion of 85 dB(G) is lower than the mean hearing threshold up to a frequency of 20 Hz and is comparatively stringent relative to criteria from other overseas jurisdictions. Hence, where predicted turbine noise levels fall below 85 dB(G), they are not likely to be perceived at relevant receiver locations. Salt and Huller (2010) have developed an alternative measure based on the response to noise of the cochlea, the inner part of the ear. They adopted a sound pressure level threshold at which outer hair cells in the cochlear respond to airborne noise. This threshold is substantially lower than previous proposed thresholds. Hutchison Weller completed measurements of Vergnet turbine noise in the infrasound range at an existing facility in Coral Bay, Western Australia with three operating Vergnet MP-C (non-acoustically treated) turbines (Hutchison Weller 2016b). Monitoring methods and specific findings are detailed in the study report in Appendix D. Measurements were taken over a period of seven days from 17 July to 23 July 2016 at a distance of 280 metres from the turbines, during a range of wind speeds. The observed infrasound components were at lower levels than the thresholds of perception indicated by the Salt and Huller (2010) perception threshold. While the operating turbines did generate a small amount of noise in the infrasonic range, the contribution of the turbines to ambient infrasound was negligible in comparison with infrasound generated by environmental sources such as wind and ocean waves. All measured infrasound was found to be less than the most stringent thresholds of human perception, meaning that infrasound was neither audible nor physiologically perceptible. Based on supplier data, infrasound from the XANT turbine is also likely to be well below the threshold of perception.

VIBRATION Vibration caused by heavy vehicles and excavation equipment is expected to be minor and highly localised. Blasting for the proposed turbines is expected to be of a similar order and duration to that required for the monitoring mast erected at the site in 2014. The Statement of Environmental Effects undertaken for that project assessed the proposed blasting against the ANZEC Technical Basis for Guidelines to Minimise Annoyance due to Blasting Overpressure and Ground Vibration (1990) and AS2187 Explosives – Storage, Transport and Use, finding that the risks of adverse vibration or airblast impacts are low. The blasting that was undertaken for the erection of the monitoring mast resulted in no exceedances of the relevant guidelines (A Logan pers comm).

Environmental safeguards Error! Reference source not found. outlines safeguards intended to avoid or reduce the noise and vibration impacts of the construction and operation of the proposed wind turbines.

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Table 6-11 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate noise and vibration impacts

Safeguard Phase Construction noise A Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) will be prepared for the Construction project, containing work protocols, noise mitigation measures, contingency measures and a complaints response process. Construction works would occur seven days a week (7am to 6pm) to minimise Construction potential noise impacts while enabling the efficient use of specialist contractors visiting the island. No work would be carried out on Public Holidays or at night. Where practical, the noisiest works should be undertaken during the Construction recommended standard hours. Potentially noise affected neighbours should be contacted at the earliest possible Pre-construction time before the works, providing information on the nature of the construction Construction stages and the duration of noisier activities, noise controls and complaints processes. All plant should be operated in a quiet and efficient manner. Unused plant should Construction be turned off. Equipment and plant would be maintained according to manufacturer’s Construction recommendations. Any equipment that becomes noisy should be repaired or replaced. A documented complaints process would be implemented, including an escalation Construction procedure so that if a complainant is not satisfied there is a clear path to follow. Complaints should be handled in a prompt and responsive manner. A complaints register should be maintained and a copy kept on site. Staff who Construction receive telephone complaints should be kept informed about current and upcoming works and the relevant contacts for these works. Where there are complaints about noise from an identified work activity, the Construction activity should be reviewed to identify any feasible additional actions which can be taken to minimise noise output or impacts. Noise minimisation will also be undertaken with regard to AS 2436-2010 Guide to Construction Noise and Vibration Control on Construction, Demolition and Maintenance Sites which contains practical recommendations to assist in mitigating construction noise emissions. The ANZECC (1990) guidelines for control of blasting impact at residences would Construction be followed if blasting is required and there is the potential for neighbouring residences to be affected by ground vibration and overpressure.

All sensitive receivers should be informed when blasting is to be undertaken. Less Construction than 0.1kg of blast mass should be used within 50 metres of the Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding colony or other sensitive receivers (GHD 2014).

Turbine operation noise As detailed in the noise assessment (Hutchison Weller 2016a), contingency Operation measures should be implemented if the operating turbines are found to exceed the predicted noise levels. The measures should be included in the Adaptive Management Plan for the project. Noise management options include:  identify the conditions and times that lead to undue impacts.

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Safeguard Phase  turn off one or both turbines that are identified as causing undue impacts during specific conditions (wind directions and strengths), a mitigation process called sector management.  consult with the manufacturer to identify noise control options of the turbines such as: - variable speed; - changes to the pitch regulation regime; - vortex generators and/or - trailing edge serrations.  negotiate with affected property owners. Upon commissioning, operational noise monitoring should be completed to Operation confirm actual turbine noise emission levels and compliance with the assessment criteria.

6.2.3 Visual and landscape character impacts A Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) has been prepared for the project by Moir Landscape Architects (2016) assessing the effects on landscape character, landscape values, landscape amenity and scenic vistas; refer Appendix B. The findings of this assessment are summarised in this section. The assessment is based on the Vergnet turbines as the highest visual impact option. Assessment methodologies are detailed in the attached LVIA report. The assessment adopts relevant guidelines and recommendations contained in the Draft NSW Planning Guidelines (2011 and 2016).

Existing environment The World Heritage listing criteria for the LHIG include: (vii) to contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance. The Strategic Plan for the Lord Howe Island Group World Heritage Property (LHIB 2010) includes the following key strategies: C. Scenic Protection – to maintain the spectacular natural beauty of the LHIG World Heritage Property (the second criterion for World Heritage listing) E. Sustainable Living – to ensure that Island development, population and environmental impacts are kept at a sustainable level that protects World Heritage values. The Plan of Management for the Permanent Park Preserve (DECCW 2010) has the following desired outcomes for Landscape and Scenic Values:  The outstanding natural scenic values of the preserve are maintained and, where possible, enhanced  The natural character of the preserves scenery is understood and conserved.

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LANDSCAPE CHARACTER Distinct and relatively homogeneous Landscape Character Units (LCUs) have been identified in the study area based on variations in geology, topography, land use and vegetation. The LCUs identified in the study area are: LCU 1 Northern LHI Permanent Park Preserve (very high visual quality rating) LCU 2 Southern LHI Permanent Park Preserve (very high visual quality rating) LCU 3 Settlement Area (moderate-high visual quality rating) LCU 4 The Lagoon (high visual quality rating).

VIEWPOINT ASSESSMENT 21 viewpoints around the proposal site have been identified and assessed in the LVIA report. Viewpoints were selected from accessible public land (typically walking tracks, roads and lookouts) which were identified as having a potentially high visual impact. Viewpoints were also used from positions aboard a boat in the lagoon. The viewpoints used in the assessment are shown on Figure 6-7. For each viewpoint, the potential visual impact was analysed through the use of a combination of 3D terrain modelling, topographic maps and on site analysis. A summary of the visual sensitivity, visual effect and visual impact of the proposal for each viewpoint are listed in Table 6-12. Visual sensitivity is a measure of how critically a change to the existing landscape is viewed by people from different areas, considering the number of people affected, land use and the distance of the viewer. Visual effect is the interaction between a proposal and the existing visual environment, often expressed in terms of the visual contrast of the proposal against its setting or background. Visual impact refers to the change in appearance of the landscape as a result of development and is the combined effect of visual sensitivity and visual effect.

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Figure 6-7 Viewpoints used for the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment

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Table 6-12 Summary of the visual sensitivity, visual effect and visual impact for each viewpoint

VIEWPOINT LOCATION DISTANCE VISUAL VISUAL EFFECT VISUAL IMPACT - to nearest SENSITIVITY RATING RATING turbine RATING

VP01 Lord Howe Island 1.70km HIGH LOW MODERATE Jetty

VP02 The Lagoon- 1.50km HIGH MODERATE HIGH Blackburn Island

VP03 The Lagoon - Comets 1.10km HIGH MODERATE HIGH Hole

VP04 The Lagoon - 2.37km HIGH LOW MODERATE Callaghans Rock

VP05 The Lagoon 3.05km HIGH LOW MODERATE

VP06 Roach Island 3.66km HIGH LOW MODERATE

VP07 Jims Point 1.10km HIGH HIGH HIGH

VP08 North Head 3.10km HIGH LOW MODERATE

VP09 The Lagoon - 2.30km HIGH LOW MODERATE Dawsons Point

VP10 Neds Beach Walking 1.55km HIGH MODERATE HIGH Track

VP11 Thompson Lookout 1.70km HIGH LOW MODERATE

VP12 Malabar Hill 2.10km HIGH LOW MODERATE

VP13 Skyline Drive 0.70km HIGH HIGH HIGH

VP14 Kims Lookout 2.80km HIGH LOW MODERATE

VP15 Old Settlement 2.30km HIGH LOW MODERATE Beach

VP16 Intermediate Hill 2.40km HIGH LOW MODERATE

VP17 Goat House Cave 3.90km HIGH LOW MODERATE

VP18 Prince William Henry 1.50km HIGH LOW MODERATE Bay

VP19 Lagoon Road 0.60km HIGH MODERATE HIGH

VP20 Pinetrees Lodge 0.45km HIGH HIGH HIGH

VP21 Pinetrees Lodge 0.40km HIGH HIGH HIGH

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Visual sensitivity was rated as high for all of the viewpoints. The majority of viewpoints were assessed as likely to have a low visual effect (13 viewpoints), generally due to distance from the proposal or potential screening factors including vegetation. Although they sit high above the ground level, the proposed wind turbines have a small horizontal presence. When viewed from a distance, the proposed wind turbines form only a small element in the overall view. 4 viewpoints were rated as having a moderate visual effect and 4 as having a high visual effect. These viewpoints were generally close to the proposal (within 1.55 km) with no screening factors. 13 viewpoints were assessed as having a potentially moderate visual impact. Moderate ratings tend to be close to the proposal or in locations where the visual sensitivity is high and the visual effect is low. 8 viewpoints were rated as having a high visual impact, these were all close to the proposal site.

PHOTOMONTAGES Photomontage images of the proposed wind turbines within the existing context were prepared to assist in the impact assessment. Photomontages are representations of the turbines that are superimposed onto a photograph of the site from sensitive viewpoints. 11 viewpoints were selected for the production of photomontages, which are generally those viewpoints determined to have the greatest potential for visual impact. The photomontages include a view of the scene without turbines, an indicative real-world view of the turbines and a zoomed and cropped image. The photomontages with superimposed turbines are provided in the attached LVIA report. An example set of the photomontage images is shown on Figure 6-8, Figure 6-9 and Figure 6-10. These images represent the view from Thompson Lookout to the south of Malabar Hill in the Permanent Park Preserve, 1.7 kilometres from the proposed turbine site (Viewpoint 11 (VP11) in the LVIA report). The lookout is a popular tourist attraction and the visual sensitivity from this location is high. From here the proposed wind turbines are likely to be visible in the middle ground, against sky and vegetation backgrounds. The turbines would be small in the context of the overall landscape and would result in a low visual effect and moderate visual impact.

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Figure 6-8 Example of photomontage existing view of the subject site from Thompson Lookout (PM03A).

Figure 6-9 Example of photomontage indicative view of the proposed wind turbines from Thompson Lookout (PM03B).

Figure 6-10 Example of photomontage zoomed and cropped image (PM03C).

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Impact assessment

LANDSCAPE CHARACTER UNITS The impacts of the proposal in relation to each Landscape Character Unit are summarised below. Northern Permanent Park Preserve Views to the south from the Permanent Park Preserve are dominated by the steep, vegetated peaks of Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird. The large scale and visual dominance of the southern peaks would ensure the wind turbines would be only a noticeable element in the overall visual landscape. Southern Permanent Park Preserve Expansive views from Goat House Cave (Mount Lidgbird) and Mount Gower are available to advanced walkers. The proposed wind turbines are over 3.5 kilometres from Goat House Cave. The wind turbines would be noticeable, yet in the context of the broader view, would be only a small visual element. Settlement Area Views of the proposal site are likely to be limited in the settlement area, with the highest visual impact from cleared areas close to the north and east of the turbines (refer to Photomontages 09, 10 and 11 in the LVIA in Appendix B). There is opportunity for screen planting in these locations in keeping with the existing landscape character and in accordance with the mitigation methods outlined in the LVIA and in the safeguards table below (Table 6-13). In circumstances where residences are subject to a high level of visual impact, screen planting is an option proposed to assist in mitigating views of turbines from residential properties. General guidelines for landscaping and visual screening include:  Planting layout should avoid screening views of the broader landscape  Planting should remain in keeping with existing landscape character  Plant species selection is to be typical of the area, preferably locally native species  Where appropriate reinstate any lost vegetation  Allow natural vegetation to regrow over any areas of disturbance. It is likely the turbines would be visible from open recreation spaces to the north including Old Settlement Beach and Ned’s Beach. Due to the distance from the site and the visual dominance of the southern Permanent Park Preserve, the turbines are likely to appear as only a small element in the visual landscape. From the south, views of the proposed wind turbines from residences along Lagoon Road to the north of the airport are screened by topography. The blades of the turbines would be visible beyond the vegetated ridgeline viewed from the settlement area south of Transit Hill. Existing infrastructure associated with the airport would be visible at the same time. The settlement area is a landscape modified by development and infrastructure and the proposed wind turbines are a similar scale to existing Airservices Australia towers near the project site, and former towers near Ned’s Beach. Lagoon Topography associated with Transit Hill would provide some screening of the site from the south west. The existing modification to the landscape to accommodate the airport landing strip is a visible element in the landscape from the lagoon. The dominant features which characterise the island (mainly the vegetated hills) are likely to remain the most prevalent elements in the visual landscape from the lagoon.

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SUMMARY OF VISUAL IMPACTS Wind turbines have the potential create a strong contrast in the landscape as a result of their vertical scale and lack of visual integration. The proposed turbines will most likely become a dominant feature of the landscape when viewed from close proximity, particularly from the northern settlement area. Elevated views are available from the southern and northern hills, although due to the expansive views and distance from the proposal in these locations, the turbines are likely to be a minor element in the overall landscape. A number of existing infrastructure elements are located close to the proposal site. The proposed wind turbines are a similar scale to the existing Airservices Australia towers near the project site. The existing airstrip the south of Transit Hill is a major modification to the landscape and when viewed in conjunction, the wind turbines would be comparatively small in scale. The wind turbines would be a temporary visual element with little to no long term impact on the landscape. Lord Howe Island is recognised as a world heritage property for its scenic values of a varied landscape of mountains, valleys, hills, lowlands and sea-cliffs. The proposed wind turbines are comparatively small in scale in the visual context of the island. While the wind turbines would alter the existing visual character of the area to some degree, the unique visual features which characterise Lord Howe Island would remain the dominant elements in the landscape. Overall, the proposed turbines would have a moderate visual impact within the local context. With the implementation of the mitigation measures included in the LVIA and in this ER, and ongoing consultation with local residents, it is likely that visual impacts could be reduced to an acceptable level at viewing locations such as residences and tourism accommodation.

COMPARISON OF TURBINE OPTIONS AND LAYOUTS A comparative assessment of the three turbine options found that the visual effect does not vary greatly between the options. While the smaller XANT turbines would have lower visual effect than the proposed Vergnet option, the difference would be small, close range and localised, and there would be no discernible difference from high vantage points. Similarly, the construction of a single Vergnet turbine rather than two would result in negligible difference in terms of impacts to visual values and landscape character. The Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment also assessed the visual impact of an alternative turbine layout, which involves the relocation of the lower, westernmost turbine (WTG 1) to the current position of the meteorological monitoring mast at the upper, eastern end of the site. This higher position would result in slightly higher visual prominence, however the variation is relatively minor, and the alternative layout would not significantly alter the findings of the LVIA.

TURBINE COLOUR The NSW Draft Guidelines recommend turbines that are off-white or grey in colour. A comparative photomontage has been prepared to illustrate the suitable colour options the LVIA (refer Appendix B). The LVIA also recommends:  the use of simple muted colours and non-reflective materials to reduce distant visibility and avoid drawing the eye  blades, nacelle and tower to appear as the same colour

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NIGHT LIGHTING Aviation navigation lighting is likely to be limited to a small red light (non flashing) on the nacelle of the wind turbines, which would have a negligible visual impact on the night time landscape. To reduce any potential visual impact, night lighting should be limited to the nacelle and designed to restrict the downward spill of light. Under Section 10.4 of AC139-18(0) for Obstacle Marking and Lighting of Wind Farms, shielding may be provided to restrict the downward component such that:  no more than 5% of the nominal intensity is emitted at or below 5° below the horizontal  no light is emitted at or below 10° below the horizontal.

Environmental safeguards Table 6-13 outlines safeguards intended to avoid or reduce the visual and landscape impacts of the construction and operation of the proposed wind turbines and associated infrastructure. Table 6-13 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate visual and landscape impacts

Safeguard Phase Turbine lighting To reduce potential visual impact, night lighting should be limited to the nacelle and Planning designed to restrict the downward spill of light. Consistent with Section 10.4 of AC139- Construction 18(0) for Obstacle Marking and Lighting of Wind Farms, shielding may be provided to Operation restrict the downward component such that:  no more than 5% of the nominal intensity is emitted at or below 5° below the horizontal  no light is emitted at or below 10° below the horizontal.

Turbine design and colour The selection of turbine design and colour should consider the following principles: Planning • Uniformity in the colour, design, rotational speed, height and rotor diameter Construction • The use of simple muted colours and non-reflective materials to reduce distant Operation visibility and avoid drawing the eye • Blades, nacelle and tower to appear as the same colour • Avoidance of unnecessary lighting, signage, logos etc.

Associated infrastructure The following principles should be applied to reduce the visual impact of associated Planning infrastructure: Construction • Boundary landscaping to assist in screening ancillary structures would significantly Operation reduce the potential visual impact • Avoidance of unnecessary lighting, signage on fences, logos etc • Minimise cut and fill and loss of existing vegetation throughout the construction process • Limit above ground infrastructure apart from the turbine itself and the transformer at the base of the turbine.

Landscaping and screen planting

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Safeguard Phase Screen planting is an option which can assist in mitigating views of turbines from Planning residential properties. General guidelines to adhere to when planning for landscaping Construction and visual screening include: Operation • Planting layout should avoid screening views of the broader landscape. • Planting should remain in keeping with existing landscape character. • Species selection is to be native and typical of the area. • Where appropriate reinstate any lost vegetation. • Allow natural vegetation to regrow over any areas of disturbance.

6.2.4 World Heritage

Existing environment

WORLD HERITAGE LISTING The Lord Howe Island Group was listed as a World Heritage Property under the World Heritage Convention in 1982. World Heritage Properties are protected as a Matter of National Environmental Significance under the Commonwealth EPBC Act. The LHIG was listed under the following World Heritage criteria: (vii) to contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance; (x) to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation. The World Heritage Property covers 146,300 hectares comprising Lord Howe Island, the Admiralty Islands, Mutton Bird Island, Blackburn Island, Gower Island, Balls Pyramid and offshore islets and 145,000 hectares of surrounding marine environment (LHIB 2010). Under the World Heritage Convention, Australia is obliged to:  protect, conserve and present the World Heritage values  protect the area through a comprehensive planning program  give the property a function in the life of the Australian community  conduct scientific and technical research and develop operating methods to counter threats to the values  take appropriate scientific, technical, legal, administrative and financial measures necessary for achieving the foregoing objectives. Under the UNESCO (2008) Operational Guidelines, human activities may be ‘consistent with the outstanding universal value of the area where they are ecologically sustainable’. The island’s World Heritage listing has been identified as a major contributor to local economic activity through tourism (Gillespie Economics and BDA Group 2008 in LHIB 2010).

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WORLD HERITAGE VALUES The Lord Howe Island World Heritage Property Strategic Plan (LHIB 2010) outlines the key World Heritage values of the LHIG: Superlative natural phenomena  exceptional diversity of spectacular and scenic landscapes within a small land area; and  outstanding underwater vistas, including reefs considered to be among the most beautiful in the world. The plan identifies the towering volcanic mountains of Mount Gower (875 metres) and Mount Lidgbird (777 metres), Balls Pyramid, the low-lying centre of the island, varying coastal landforms and the clear lagoon and its fringing reef as key scenic qualities. Biodiversity values  high diversity of vegetation communities;  diversity of indigenous vascular plants, comprising at least 241 species, including many species of conservation significance, many of which are endemic to the island group;  diversity of birds, comprising 164 bird species, including species of conservation significance and many endemic species (such as the well-known Lord Howe Island Woodhen, which is one of the few examples of successful in situ recovery of a species from the brink of extinction);  seabird breeding habitats which together comprise one of the major breeding sites in the southwest Pacific, including four species of conservation significance;  rich diversity and high levels of endemism of terrestrial invertebrates, including spiders, snails and the large and spectacular Lord Howe Island Phasmid which survives on Balls Pyramid;  unusual combination of tropical and temperate marine flora and fauna, including many species at their distributional limits, reflecting the extreme latitude of the coral reef ecosystems which are the southern-most true coral reefs in the world;  diversity of marine benthic algae species, which include many endemic species;  diversity of marine fish species including at least 500 species of which 400 are inshore species and 15 are endemic; and  diversity of marine invertebrate species, including more than 83 species of corals and 65 species of echinoderms of which 70% are tropical, 24% are temperate and 6% are endemic. The strategic plan also identifies other significant features which are integral to the protection of the World Heritage values, including:  geodiversity and the geological and geomorphologic processes underpinning its spectacular scenic values;  ecological and biological processes and the ecosystems which support its high terrestrial and marine biodiversity; and  significance for scientific research and education, including as an isolated island group which was one of the last to experience human settlement.

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Impact assessment An action that is expected to result in loss, degradation or damage to any of the values of World Heritage property is likely to be considered to have a significant impact (DEWHA 2009). The Commonwealth Significant Impact Guidelines (Commonwealth 2013) provide the following assessment criteria: An action is likely to have a significant impact on the World Heritage values of a declared World Heritage property if there is a real chance or possibility that it will cause:  one or more of the World Heritage values to be lost  one or more of the World Heritage values to be degraded or damaged, or  one or more of the World Heritage values to be notably altered, modified, obscured or diminished. The guidelines provide the following examples of significant impact: Biological and ecological values  reduce the diversity or modify the composition of plant and animal species in all or part of a World Heritage property  fragment, isolate or substantially damage habitat important for the conservation of biological diversity in a World Heritage property  cause a long-term reduction in rare, endemic or unique plant or animal populations or species in a World Heritage property, and  fragment, isolate or substantially damage habitat for rare, endemic or unique animal populations or species in a World Heritage property. Wilderness, natural beauty or rare or unique environment values  involve construction of buildings, roads, or other structures, vegetation clearance, or other actions with substantial, long-term or permanent impacts on relevant values, and  introduce noise, odours, pollutants or other intrusive elements with substantial, long-term or permanent impacts on relevant values. An assessment of the significance of the likely impacts of the proposed wind turbines and access road on the World Heritage values described in the Strategic Plan (LHIB 2010) is provided below. Based on this assessment and supporting studies, the proposal is not considered likely to significantly affect the World Heritage values of the Lord Howe Island property. The proposal would provide offsetting benefits for the property in terms of reduced air pollution, carbon emission and fuel spillage risks.

Table 6-14 Assessment of potential impacts to terrestrial World Heritage values

Superlative natural phenomena Exceptional diversity of spectacular and scenic landscapes within a small land area Subject site and study area The proposed turbines would be situated on a low ridge in the central lowlands of the island. The subject site is a cleared paddock between the settlement and the airport, within a humanised-forested landscape context. The Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) undertaken for the project found that visual sensitivity was high for all of the assessed viewpoints around the subject site (Moir Landscape Architects 2016).

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Significance of impacts The minor clearing and construction works associated with the access track would be localised and would not affect landscape and visual values. The turbines will be visible from key vantage points at the north and south of the island. The LVIA concluded that the proposed turbines would have a moderate visual impact within the local context. When viewed from a distance, the proposed wind turbines would form only a small element in the overall view, which would remain dominated by the natural features which characterise the island. Views of the proposal site are likely to be limited in the settlement area, with the highest visual impact from cleared areas close to the north and east of the turbines. The settlement area is a landscape modified by development and the proposed wind turbines would be similar or smaller in scale compared to existing infrastructure elements. It is likely that screen planting and ongoing consultation with local residents at viewing locations such as residences and tourism accommodation could be used to reduce visual impacts to acceptable levels. The turbines would be visible but would not be incongruous or likely to significantly diminish the landscape character and scenic values of the LHIG; refer section 6.2.3. The proposal would not be likely to produce substantial, long-term or permanent impacts on the scenic and landscape values of the World Heritage Property. A comparative assessment of the three turbine options found that the visual effect does not vary greatly between the options.

Biodiversity values High diversity of vegetation communities. Subject site and study area The turbines would be constructed in a cleared paddock dominated by exotic grasses. A small area of disturbed native vegetation would be cleared for upgrading the access track to the site (up to 200m2). Significance of impacts The vegetation to be cleared is Greybark-Blackbutt Closed Forest, the most common vegetation community in the settlement area but also a community heavily impacted by historical clearing. The proposed works would not significantly affect the composition of plant and animal species at the local scale. The proposed clearing for the project would not be significant in areal terms and would be adequately offset by the restoration of similar vegetation close to the site (refer section 6.2.1). No threatened communities would be affected. Diversity of indigenous vascular plants, including endemic and significant species. Subject site and study area The construction of the turbines would be undertaken in a cleared paddock and would not affect native flora species. The small amount of clearing for the upgraded access track would affect a disturbed but diverse closed forest community with several endemic flora species. Significance of impacts The species affected by the proposed clearing are either community dominants or locally common species, including endemics (refer section 6.2.1). The removal of a few individuals of these species would not be significant in terms of World Heritage values. The proposal would not significantly affect the diversity or composition of native vegetation at the local scale, or fragment local plant populations. No threatened flora species would be affected.

Diversity of birds, including endemic and significant species. Subject site and study area The proposed turbine site is a cleared paddock with minimal habitat value, although seabirds and forest birds are known to use the airspace above the paddock.

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Significance of impacts The significance of impacts to birds has been assessed in specialist studies. Forest birds are unlikely to be significantly impacted because of the turbine height. Seabirds have potential to be affected and a range of mitigation measures would be implemented to ensure that bladestrike or habitat utilisation impacts do not significantly affect local populations (refer section 6.2.1). Subject to these measures, the proposal is not likely to reduce bird diversity or result in a long term decline in any populations. The proposal would not affect bird movements such that habitat utilisation is affected or any habitat or population is fragmented.

Seabird breeding habitats which comprise one of the major breeding sites in the southwest Pacific, including significant species. Subject site and study area Lord Howe Island is the only breeding island for Flesh‐footed Shearwaters on the east coast of Australia, and is a significant breeding site for this species globally (O’Neill and Carlile 2016). The largest colony on the island is immediately adjacent to the subject site (Priddel et al. 2006). Birds from this colony use the airspace above the paddock to access the breeding site. Other seabirds which breed on or near the island also fly over the site. Significance of impacts The significance of impacts to seabirds including the Flesh-footed Shearwater has been assessed in specialist studies. The assessments conclude that the proposal is not likely to significantly affect these species, subject to a range of mitigation, monitoring and adaptive management measures (refer section 6.2.1). Subject to the implementation of the mitigation measures, the proposal is not likely to reduce seabird diversity or result in a long term decline in any populations. The proposal would not affect seabird movements such that any habitat or population is fragmented.

Rich diversity and high levels of endemism of terrestrial invertebrates, including spiders, snails and the Lord Howe Island Phasmid. Subject site and study area The access track route at the subject site is disturbed Greybark-Blackbutt Closed Forest which provides habitat for terrestrial invertebrates, but marginal habitat for the threatened endemic Lord Howe Placostylus. Significance of impacts The limited clearing required for the access track upgrade would remove a small area of invertebrate habitat but would not be likely to significantly affect the composition, diversity or long term viability of native invertebrate species at the local scale. The access track site is mapped as potential high quality Placostylus habitat (B), although the habitat is likely to be marginal based on recent records and known habitat preferences. The Assessment of Significance concludes that the works are not likely to significantly affect this species (refer section 6.2.1). The proposed works would not significantly add to existing habitat fragmentation for invertebrates in the study area.

Other significant features integral to the World Heritage values; geodiversity, the ecological and biological processes and ecosystems and significance for scientific research and education. Subject site and study area The subject site is located on shallow basalt soil typical of the volcanic hills and mountains of the island. Local ecological processes have been locally disrupted by clearing, establishment of dense exotic groundcover (Kikuyu) and continuing cattle grazing. Significance of impacts The proposal would not affect any significant geophysical features or local ecological processes. The proposal would not affect the significance of, or access to, the site for scientific research and education.

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Environmental safeguards Environmental safeguards relevant to the protection of World Heritage values are provided in section 6.2.1 (biodiversity values) and section 6.2.3 (scenic and landscape character values).

6.2.5 National Heritage

Existing environment

DATABASE SEARCHES The Australian Heritage Database was searched for recorded heritage items located on Lord Howe Island and which may be affected by the proposal. The Australian Heritage Database contains places included on the World Heritage List, National Heritage List, Commonwealth Heritage list and the Register of the National Estate. The database search indicated the following items: Lord Howe Island Group (World Heritage property) Lord Howe Island Group (National Heritage) Lord Howe Island Group and Maritime Environs - Register of the National Estate Lord Howe Island War Memorial Lagoon Road - Register of the National Estate. The Register of the National Estate was closed and archived in 2007 and is no longer a statutory list. Items of national environmental significance were transferred to the National Heritage list. Other items are listed and protected at state and local levels; these are assessed in section 6.2.6. The impact of the proposal on World Heritage values is assessed in the preceding section 6.2.4

NATIONAL HERITAGE LISTING In 2007 the Lord Howe Island Group World Heritage Property was added to the National Heritage List in recognition of its national heritage significance. The corresponding National Heritage criteria identified in the listing instrument are as follows: (a) the place has outstanding heritage value to the nation because of the place’s importance in the course, or pattern, of Australia’s natural or cultural history; (b) the place has outstanding heritage value to the nation because of the place’s possession of uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of Australia’s natural or cultural history; (c) the place has outstanding heritage value to the nation because of the place’s potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of Australia’s natural or cultural history; (e) the place has outstanding heritage value to the nation because of the place’s importance in exhibiting particular aesthetic characteristics valued by a community or cultural group.

Impact assessment Actions associated with a wind farm have potential to impact on World Heritage and National Heritage values in similar ways (DEWHA 2009) and the assessment of World Heritage impacts in section 6.2.4 above are also relevant for National Heritage.

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An action that is expected to result in loss, degradation or damage to any of the values of a National Heritage place is considered likely to have a significant impact. These values can be natural and/or cultural, such as features of historical, Indigenous, social, spiritual, technical, aesthetic, archaeological or natural importance (DEWHA 2009). The Commonwealth Significant Impact Guidelines (Commonwealth 2013) provide the following assessment criteria: An action is likely to have a significant impact on the National Heritage values of a National Heritage place if there is a real chance or possibility that it will cause:  one or more of the National Heritage values to be lost  one or more of the National Heritage values to be degraded or damaged, or  one or more of the National Heritage values to be notably altered, modified, obscured or diminished. The guidelines provide the following examples of significant impact: An action is likely to have a significant impact on natural heritage values of a National Heritage place if there is a real chance or possibility that the action will: Biological and ecological values  modify or inhibit ecological processes in a National Heritage place  reduce the diversity or modify the composition of plant and animal species in a National Heritage place  fragment or damage habitat important for the conservation of biological diversity in a National Heritage place  cause a long-term reduction in rare, endemic or unique plant or animal populations or species in a National Heritage place, and  fragment, isolate or substantially damage habitat for rare, endemic or unique animal populations or species in a National Heritage place. Wilderness, aesthetic, or other rare or unique environment values  involve construction of buildings, roads or other structures, vegetation clearance, or other actions with substantial and/or long-term impacts on relevant values, and  introduce noise, odours, pollutants or other intrusive elements with substantial and/or long-term impacts on relevant values. An assessment of the significance of the likely impacts of the proposed wind turbines and access road on the National Heritage values against the relevant National Heritage criteria is provided in Table 6-15 below. Based on this assessment, the proposal is not considered likely to significantly affect the National Heritage values of the Lord Howe Island property.

Table 6-15 Assessment of potential impacts to National Heritage values against National Heritage criteria

Biological and ecological values a) The place has outstanding heritage value to the nation because of the place’s importance in the course, or pattern, of Australia’s natural or cultural history. This criterion applies to natural environment places which contain exemplary evidence and products of past or continuing climatic, geological, geomorphological, ecological or biological processes. The criterion

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includes endemism and speciation, and relict, phylogenetically distinct or primitive species; species richness and diversity, ecosystem diversity and refugia (AHC 2009). Subject site and study area The turbines would be constructed in a cleared paddock dominated by exotic grasses. Endemic forest birds are known to use the airspace above the paddock. These include the Lord Howe Island Currawong, Lord Howe Silvereye and Lord Howe Golden Whistler. A small area of disturbed native vegetation would be cleared for upgrading the access track to the site (up to 200m2), with several endemic flora species. The forest at the site provides marginal habitat for the endemic invertebrate Lord Howe Placostylus, although based on current knowledge regarding habitat requirements and distribution, its presence at the site is considered unlikely (refer Appendix A). Significance of impacts The vegetation to be cleared is Greybark-Blackbutt Closed Forest, the most common vegetation community in the settlement area but also a community heavily impacted by historical clearing. In areal terms, the proposed clearing would not affect local endemic flora and fauna species. The flora species that would be affected by the clearing are either community dominants or locally common species, including endemics (refer section 6.2.1). The removal of a few individuals of these species would not significantly affect local plant populations. The clearing would be adequately offset by restoration works in similar vegetation close to the site (refer section 6.2.1). The clearing is also not expected to result in significant habitat loss or fragmentation for any endemic fauna species, including the Lord Howe Placostylus. The operating wind turbines have potential to kill endemic forest birds through bladestrike. The significance of impacts to endemic birds has been assessed in specialist studies. Endemic forest birds are considered unlikely to be significantly impacted because the turbine bladeswept zone is higher than the likely area of activity for these species. b) The place has outstanding heritage value to the nation because of the place’s possession of uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of Australia’s natural or cultural history. This criterion applies generally to places possessing uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of Australia’s natural or cultural history where these aspects are of national significance to Australia. The criterion includes areas with rare biological, geomorphological or palaeontological attributes. The place will represent rare and threatened species (only at an extremely high threshold), possessing significant conservation values (AHC 2009). Subject site and study area The turbines would be constructed in a cleared paddock dominated by exotic grasses. Threatened birds are known to use the airspace above the paddock, including the forest and seabird species. Lord Howe Island is the only breeding island for Flesh‐footed Shearwaters on the east coast of Australia, and is a significant breeding site for this species globally (O’Neill and Carlile 2016). A small area of disturbed native vegetation would be cleared for upgrading the access track to the site (up to 200m2). No threatened flora species or communities would be affected. The forest at the site provides marginal habitat for the threatened invertebrate Lord Howe Placostylus, although based on current knowledge regarding habitat requirements and distribution, its presence at the site is considered unlikely (refer Appendix A). Significance of impacts The vegetation to be cleared is Greybark-Blackbutt Closed Forest. Based on the habitat present at the site and known habitat preferences of the Lord Howe Placostylus, this species is unlikely to be affected by the proposed clearing in terms of habitat loss or fragmentation. The small area of clearing is also unlikely to affect threatened forest bird populations in the study area. The clearing would be adequately offset by restoration works in similar vegetation close to the site (refer section 6.2.1).

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The operating wind turbines have potential to kill threatened birds through bladestrike. The significance of impacts to threatened birds has been assessed in specialist studies. Endemic forest birds are considered unlikely to be significantly impacted because the turbine bladeswept zone is higher than the likely area of activity for these species. Seabirds have potential to be affected and a range of mitigation measures would be implemented to ensure that bladestrike or habitat utilisation impacts do not significantly affect local populations (refer section 6.2.1). The proposal is not likely to reduce bird diversity or result in a long term decline in any threatened bird populations. c) The place has outstanding heritage value to the nation because of the place’s potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of Australia’s natural or cultural history. This criterion applies generally to places with a potential to provide information from a variety of sources as a resource for research. The criterion includes capacity to contribute to scientific studies that have led or could lead to greater understanding of the natural history of Australia, or significance as a site of a discovery which has the potential to yield such understanding (AHC 2009). Subject site and study area A broad range of biodiversity research projects has been undertaken on the island, including rare plant surveys, breeding ecology of seabirds, invertebrate survey and research and investigations into the feasibility of rodent eradication. The Biodiversity Management Plan highlights gaps in knowledge for future research (DECC 2007). The recovery plans developed for the threatened Lord Howe Placostylus and the Lord Howe Woodhen contain several areas of research required for managing the recovery of these species. Significance of impacts The proposal would not diminish the research or education opportunities available at the site or in the study area.

Wilderness, aesthetic, or other rare or unique environment values e) The place has outstanding heritage value to the nation because of the place’s importance in exhibiting particular aesthetic characteristics valued by a community or cultural group. The ascription of aesthetic value may be given to a place whether it is a natural or cultural place. In relation to natural places, it is human perception of the natural place which creates the aesthetic value (AHC 2009). Subject site and study area The proposed turbines would be situated on a ridge in the central lowlands of the island. The subject site is a cleared paddock between the settlement and the airport, within a humanised-forested landscape context. The Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) undertaken for the project found that visual sensitivity was high for all of the assessed viewpoints around the subject site (Moir Landscape Architects 2016). The acoustic environment on the island is characterised by relatively high levels of background noise produced by natural sources such as wind, insects and waves. Significance of impacts The minor clearing and construction works associated with the access track would be localised and would not affect aesthetic values. The turbines will be visible from key vantage points at the north and south of the island. The LVIA concluded that the proposed turbines would have a moderate visual impact within the local context. When viewed from a distance, the proposed wind turbines would form only a small element in the overall view, which would remain dominated by the natural features which characterise the island. Views of the proposal site are likely to be limited in the settlement area, with the highest visual impact from cleared areas close to the north and east of the turbines. The settlement area is a landscape

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modified by development and the proposed wind turbines would be similar or smaller in scale compared to existing infrastructure elements. The proposal would introduce new character elements within the landscape associated with modern human settlement. Due to the dense nature of the vegetation surrounding the settlement areas views to the turbines will be limited and set in the context of buildings, and existing infrastructure. It is likely that screen planting and ongoing consultation with local residents at viewing locations such as residences and tourism accommodation could be used to reduce visual impacts to acceptable levels. The turbines would be visible but would not be incongruous or likely to significantly diminish the landscape character and scenic values of the LHIG; refer section 6.2.3. The proposal would not be likely to produce substantial, long-term or permanent impacts on the aesthetic values of the National Heritage Property. In most cases, aesthetic responses are likely to be influenced by the social and historical context of settlement, an acceptance of human presence on the island and an understanding of the need for sustainable energy production. A comparative assessment of the three turbine options found that the visual effect does not vary greatly between the options. While the turbines may be audible at some receiver locations in the settlement adjacent to the site, the most stringent noise criteria (for the night period) are not likely to be exceeded and the risk of adverse impact to the aesthetic environment of the island aesthetic is low (refer section 6.2.2).

Environmental safeguards Environmental safeguards relevant to the protection of National Heritage values are provided in section 6.2.1 (biodiversity values), section 6.2.3 (scenic and aesthetic values) and section 6.2.2 (noise).

6.2.6 State and local heritage

Existing environment The history of the island is documented in a range of sources including Owens (2008) and the Community- Based Heritage Study of Lord Howe Island (Musescape 2012). Heritage significance encompasses aesthetic, historic, scientific, cultural, social, archaeological, natural and aesthetic values. State significance refers to heritage items that are significant to the whole of NSW, and which may be listed on the State Heritage Register. Local significance refers to heritage items that are significant to a local shire or city, and which may be listed on a Local Environment Plan Schedule (OEH 2014).

DATABASE SEARCHES The NSW State Heritage Inventory was searched for recorded heritage items located on Lord Howe Island and which may be affected by the proposal. The State Heritage Inventory contains:

 Aboriginal Places declared by the Minister for the Environment under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974  items listed by the Heritage Council of NSW under the Heritage Act 1977  items listed by State government agencies under s.170 of the Heritage Act 1977  items listed by local councils on Local Environmental Plans under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. The State Heritage Inventory includes State Heritage Register items, which are legally protected under the Heritage Act 1977, and require approval from the Heritage Council of NSW for major changes. Note that

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State Heritage Register items The Lord Howe Island Group is listed as a Landscape – cultural item (Listing number 00970). The Statement of Significance for the Lord Howe Island Group is as follows: The Lord Howe Islands Group was inscribed on the World Heritage List for its unique landforms and biota, its diverse and largely intact ecosystems, natural beauty, and habitats for threatened species. It also has significant cultural heritage associations in the history of NSW. The listing is made with respect to the following NSW historic themes: Environment - cultural landscape: Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings. Exploration: Activities associated with making places previously unknown to a cultural group known to them. Government and Administration: Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Leisure: Activities associated with recreation and relaxation. The listing also describes several potential archaeological sites on the island; Old Settlement Beach Hillside, Old Settlement Beach Flats, North Bay Ephemeral Swamp, North Bay Nichols Garden Site, Wright/King Farm - the Rose Garden, the Johnson's Farm - Johnson House Site. LEP Schedule 2 Heritage items There are 20 heritage items included in Schedule 2 of the LEP. An additional 11 items are recommended for listing in the Community-based Heritage Study (Musescape 2012). The location of heritage items in the vicinity of the subject site is shown on Figure 6-11. The two listed items closest to the subject site are Palmhaven (Garton house) and the family cemetery at ‘Pinetrees’. The State Heritage Register Statements of Significance (OEH 2016) for these listings are summarised below.

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Figure 6-11 Schedule 2 cultural heritage items located around the subject site

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Palmhaven, Garton house, south end of Anderson Road, Portion 161 a) Historical significance Palmhaven has historical significance at a local level as a fine example of a well-designed and crafted bungalow erected on the island in the second decade of the 20th century. b) Associative significance The house has strong associations with the Whiting family, members of which were influential in the island community in the fields of journalism, banking, commerce, tourism and social life. c) Aesthetic significance The house has aesthetic value at a local level derived from its garden setting and architectural style. e) Research potential Further research of the fabric of the house and Whiting family history is considered likely to contribute to a better understanding of island life in the 20th century. Integrity/Intactness: High.

Family cemetery at ‘Pinetrees’, Lagoon Road, Portion 236 a) Historical significance Historically significant at a local level as the family cemetery of those associated with ‘Pinetrees’ from the mid-19th century to the present day: the last resting place for many individuals significant in the development of the island's agriculture, administration and tourism. b) Associative significance The place has strong associations with several of the island's early settler families and individuals including representatives of the Andrews, King, Nichols, Kirby, Retmock, Whiting, Mosely, Hankinson, Williams, McArthur, Rourke and Innes families. c) Aesthetic significance The cemetery has high aesthetic values at a local level derived from its attractive, serene setting – a quiet, contemplative place enclosed by dense native vegetation. Some of the monuments demonstrate typical Victorian funerary styles while others reflect the simplicity of island life and the difficulty in sourcing materials from the mainland. Embellishments in the form of shells, pebbles and exotic and native plantings add to the aesthetic value. d) Social significance High social significance at a local level arising from the strong religious values of the island's families and their care for the site as the sacred resting place of their forebears. e) Research potential Research potential in the study of monument decoration and plantings. f) Rarity Rare at a local level as the earliest cemetery on the island and one of only two family cemeteries. Representative of a small 19th century family burial ground in an isolated community. Integrity/Intactness: High

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The additional 11 items recommended for listing in the Community-based Heritage Study include:  Historic core of ‘Pinetrees; formerly ‘The Pines’, (Andrews/Nichols House (now ‘Pinetrees Lodge’), including current lounge and small office, also landscaped garden and path from Lagoon Road to ‘Pinetrees’, Portion 102, Lagoon Road (Accommodation theme).  Landscape setting ‘Pinetrees’ including entrance path and garden from Lagoon Road to guesthouse, specimen of Chinese Elm (Ulmus parvifolia), ‘Pinetrees (Environment - cultural landscape theme).  Transit of Venus observatory site, Crown Land, Transit Hill (Science theme).

Impact assessment The Heritage Council wind farm guidelines (2003) state that: 6.5.2. If a wind farm development is located within the vicinity [outside the curtilage] of a heritage item it has the potential to materially affect the heritage items values that are recognised in the assessment criteria.… 6.5.4. If the proposed wind development is within the vicinity of heritage items or potential heritage items, the proponent should contact the heritage consent authority (NSW Heritage Office, or local government) early in the process to discuss the development and potential effects on the heritage items. Under the Heritage (Lord Howe Island Exemption) Order 2014, developments are not required to be referred to the NSW Heritage Division for concurrence unless heritage items listed in Schedule 2 of the LEP would be affected. The proposal is located outside the curtilages of heritage items listed in Schedule 2 and would not directly affect any listed item. The Board consulted OEH Heritage Division (Nina Pollock, Heritage Assets Officer) regarding heritage assessment and approval requirements. Heritage Division advised that the proposal would be likely to be considered a controlled action under the EPBC Act, and heritage impacts would be assessed by the NSW Government under the Commonwealth-NSW Bilateral Agreement. Impacts to State heritage items would also be assessed during this process. The heritage values of the island include aesthetic and cultural landscape components which may be affected by the proposed wind turbines. The visual and landscape character assessment (section 6.2.3) and noise assessment (section 6.2.2 ) are relevant to the assessment of impacts on these aspects of heritage. Based on the results of the visual and noise assessments, and the assessment against heritage listing criteria, the proposal is not considered likely to adversely affect the heritage values of State Heritage Register or LEP Schedule 2 items. Impacts to the ‘Lord Howe Island Group’ listed on the State Heritage Register are assessed against the Statement of Significance and listing themes in Table 6-16. Impacts to heritage items listed in Schedule 2 of the LEP are assessed in terms of the seven criteria in the Heritage Act 1977, consistent with NSW heritage guidelines (Heritage Council 2003), in Table 6-17. An adaptive approach should be applied to account for any unforeseen impacts to heritage values. The noise assessment provides for the possible periodic shutdown or one or more turbines, or alteration to the operation of the turbines during certain conditions if noise impacts become a problem at any location. Similarly, the visual and landscape impact assessment provides for the establishment of screening vegetation or other barriers in cases where local visual impacts are found to be unacceptable. These measures have been included in the safeguards identified in Table 6-18.

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Table 6-16 Assessment of potential impacts to ‘Lord Howe Island Group’ State Heritage Register Statement of Significance and listing themes

Statement of Significance The Lord Howe Islands Group was inscribed on the World Heritage List for its unique landforms and biota, its diverse and largely intact ecosystems, natural beauty, and habitats for threatened species. It also has significant cultural heritage associations in the history of NSW. The significance of impacts to physical and biological values have been assessed in sections 6.3.4 and 6.2.1. The assessments conclude that the proposal is not likely to significantly affect these values, subject to identified mitigation measures. The impacts to cultural associations have been assessed against relevant State Heritage Register listing themes below. The assessment concludes that the proposal is not likely to significantly impact cultural heritage values relevant to these themes.

Theme: Environment - cultural landscape. Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings The Burra Charter (Australia ICOMOS 2013) points to the importance of protecting the visual and sensory setting which contributes to the cultural significance of a heritage site. However not all visible elements are necessarily relevant to the setting of a site and a change in the appearance of a setting is possible without affecting cultural significance (Masser 2006a in Jerpasen 2011). Jerpasen (2011) also notes that the relative importance of different landscape and visual elements depends on personal perceptions. Cultural landscapes represent the ‘combined works of nature and man’ and illustrate the evolution of human society and settlement over time, under the influence of the physical environment and social, economic, and cultural forces. They often reflect specific techniques of sustainable land-use and the constraints of the natural environment (ICOMOS 2009). ‘With each successive generation, the landscape becomes increasingly layered with variations of meaning and use, while retaining common threads…’ (Owens 2008). A cultural landscape must meet one of the seven criteria in the Heritage Act for it to be listed on the State Heritage Register and protected (Heritage Council 2003). The cultural landscape of Lord Howe Island is ‘an uncommonly visible landscape of initial human colonization’ (Anderson 2003 in Owens 2008), and a rare example of a modern European island colonisation (Owens 2008). The proposed turbines would not be incongruous within the local landscape context, which includes strong modern human elements such as the airport, settlement buildings and other electricity generation infrastructure (refer section 6.2.3). The proposal reflects adaptability and self-reliance in the island population, and the technology and environmental imperatives that characterise the early 21st century. It is noted that cultural landscapes are dynamic over time; the proposed wind turbines are a temporary (20 year) response to the need for sustainable, low carbon emission energy production on a small, remote island settlement. Based on the noise and visual impact assessments, the proposal is not likely to significantly affect the aesthetic qualities of the Lord Howe island cultural landscape.

Theme: Exploration. Activities associated with making places previously unknown to a cultural group known to them. Lord Howe Island has several heritage sites which reflect the island’s history of discovery and exploration. The wind turbines would be clearly visible from the lookout at the Transit of Venus observatory site on Transit Hill, to the south of the site. This site has been recommended for listing in LEP in the Community- based Heritage Study. Two plaque memorials and a lookout tower are present at the site. This site is located on a walking track and visual and acoustic impacts to receivers would be transient. The wind turbines are likely to be aesthetically compatible with the local viewfield and cultural landscape,

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which includes strong human elements such as the airport, telecommunications tower, cleared paddocks, settlement buildings and powerhouse. The proposal is not likely to affect any other sites or objects related to exploration or research on the island. The proposal would not affect any of the potential archaeological sites identified in the State Heritage Register listing. The proposal would not interfere with future research potential. The archaeological potential for the site is likely to be very low given the shallow soils, moderate slopes, elevated terrain and historical grazing use of the site.

Theme: Government and Administration. Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. The proposal would not adversely affect any physical items which are related to this theme, including the government administration buildings and service infrastructure. The wind turbine development is being undertaken by the Lord Howe Island Board and represents a significant innovation to improve energy sustainability on the island. The development would also represent the culmination of distinctive administrative processes on the island, which are characterised by extensive community consultation and detailed assessment of environmental impact.

Theme: Leisure. Activities associated with recreation and relaxation. The proposal is sited outside the curtilage of the heritage items associated with recreation and relaxation on the island, including tourism accommodation and public areas. The potential aesthetic impacts of the proposal have been assessed in specialist noise and visual studies, which conclude that all guidelines would be met and no significant impact is expected.

Table 6-17 Assessment of potential impacts to heritage items listed in Schedule 2 of the LEP

State and local heritage criteria a) Important in the course or pattern of NSW cultural or natural history. b) Strong or special association with the life or works or a person, group or persons, of importance in NSW cultural or natural history. The proposal is sited well outside the curtilage of the Schedule 2 heritage items and would not affect their intrinsic historical significance or associative values. c) Demonstrates aesthetic characteristics and /or a high degree of creative or technical achievement. The wind turbines may be partially visible and audible from outside the Pinetrees buildings and the Palmhaven residence. Palmhaven is described as ‘surrounded by trees’ in the noise assessment (Jacobs 2016d), which may obscure the turbines at this site. The proximity to the turbines may affect the aesthetic environment outside the heritage item buildings, although the effect is likely to be subtle and is not considered likely to damage the aesthetic or cultural experiences available at the sites. While the turbines may be audible at some receiver locations in the settlement adjacent to the site, the most stringent noise criteria (for the night period) are not likely to be exceeded and the risk of adverse impact to the aesthetic environment of the island aesthetic is low (refer section 6.2.2). The visual and acoustic impact of the turbines at the Transit Hill Lookout (recommended for listing in LEP in the Community-based Heritage Study) is likely to be more pronounced. However, as noted in Table 6-16 above, this site is located on a walking track and impacts to receivers are likely to be transient. In addition, the turbines are likely to be aesthetically compatible with the local viewfield and cultural landscape, which includes strong human elements such as the airport, telecommunications tower, cleared paddocks, settlement buildings and powerhouse.

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The cemetery site has high local aesthetic value derived from its attractive and quiet setting. The cemetery is however enclosed by dense native vegetation which may reduce or eliminate the visual and acoustic impacts of the proposed turbines. The potential aesthetic impacts of the proposal have been assessed in specialist noise and visual studies, which conclude that all guidelines would be met and no significant impact is expected. d) Strong or special association with a particular community or cultural group, for social, cultural or spiritual reasons. The proposal is sited outside the curtilage of the heritage items and would not adversely affect their social significance. This criterion is not relevant for Palmhaven. e) Potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of NSW’s cultural or natural history. The proposal is sited outside the curtilage of the heritage items and would not interfere with future research potential. The archaeological potential for the site is likely to be very low given the shallow soils, moderate slopes, elevated terrain and historical grazing use of the site. f) Possesses uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of NSW’s cultural or natural history. The proposal is sited outside the curtilage of the heritage items and would not affect the uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of the items. This criterion is not relevant for Palmhaven. g) Demonstrates the principal characteristics of a class of NSW’s: i) cultural or natural places ii) cultural or natural environments. Not applicable to the relevant Schedule 2 heritage item listings.

Environmental safeguards Table 6-18 outlines safeguards to avoid or reduce the impacts of the works on cultural heritage values. Visual and noise impact mitigation measures are also relevant to the protection of cultural heritage values on the island; refer sections in sections 6.2.2 and 6.2.3.

Table 6-18 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate cultural heritage impacts

Safeguard Phase If any heritage site or object is discovered during the works, works should cease and the Construction Board and the Heritage Division, Office of Environment and Heritage (02 9873 8500) should be notified in accordance with the Heritage Act so that the item can be assessed and protected as required. Works would not recommence until relevant approvals and an appropriate management strategy have been obtained. An adaptive approach should be applied to account for any unforeseen visual or acoustic Operation impacts to the aesthetic values of heritage items. Mitigation measures identified in this report for the amelioration of visual and noise impacts should also be applied to the protection of heritage values, as required.

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6.2.7 Social and economic impacts

Existing environment The Lord Howe Island population comprises people residing on the island temporarily, and ‘Islanders’ with entitlement to different rights under the Lord Howe Island Act 1953. Under the Act, ‘Islander’ includes a person who resided on the island for at least 5 years prior to 1982, or who has resided continuously on the island for 10 years. The Lord Howe Island Board is made up of majority Islander membership. Land on the island is managed through a leasing system, and only Islanders are eligible for leases. Lord Howe Island has a permanent population of around 360 people in 184 private dwellings, 50 unoccupied at the time of the 2011 census (ABS 2013). 303 people were born in Australia, 18 in New Zealand, 10 in the UK and 4 in Canada. There were 90 families, the average children per family was 1.7, the average household size was 2.3, gender composition was 185 females and 174 males, and the median age was 48. Most people are employed in the accommodation and food services, or administration and safety sectors. Other large employment sectors are Public Administration and Safety, and Transport, Postal and Warehousing. In 2013, there were 47 registered businesses (most in the accommodation and food service industry) and 230 registered motor vehicles (ABS 2015). The major industry on the island is tourism. There are 18 lodge operators, 20 tour operators, 13 restaurants and cafes and nine retail stores operating on the island (Arche 2010 in AECOM 2016). The island attracts more than 16,000 visitors per annum with an increasing trend. Tourism contributes more than $25 million to the island economy each year (LHICRT 2010). Tourists are capped at 400 people per night (excluding children under five) under the LEP, with most visits occurring during the summer months. A 2008 Tourism Research Australia survey profiled tourism visitation on the island (TRA 2010). 99% of visitors to the Island were overnight visitors and 70% of visitors were 55 or older. Average stays were high at around 6.7 nights. 59% of visitors were from NSW, 14% from Victoria, 11% from Queensland. 5% were international visitors. The main reasons for visiting the island included holiday (81.4%), natural areas on ocean/marine park (41.4%), natural areas on land (32.9%) and World Heritage status (29.8%). The main activities included bushwalking (93%), beach (89%), general sight-seeing (85%), museums (84%), eating out (72%), guided tour (69%), boat tour (63%) and cycling (62%). The Board is also a strong contributor to the local economy with expenditure on services of around $8 million per annum (TRA 2010). The decline in the whaling industry in the 1860’s increased the isolation and remoteness of the island and forced islanders to become more self-sufficient (Farrier 2012). The cultural landscape is of archaeological interest as ‘an uncommonly visible landscape of initial human colonization’ (Anderson 2003 in Owens 2008), and also a rare example of a modern European island colonisation (Owens 2008). The settlement has developed a distinctive social structure and culture (Davey 1986). The island is an interesting example of restricted island settlement (ANPWS 1981). Island residents, many of whom are descended from the early settlers, form a unique community with a strong sense of identity based on the history and isolation. The unique island lifestyle and its safe, quiet, unpolluted and beautiful surroundings are highly valued by the community (LHIB 2010). Less than 1% of the Australian population reside on islands, half of these on islands more than 5 kilometres from the mainland (ABS 2006). The island community have developed the Lord Howe Island Community Strategy (LHICRT 2010) which includes a vision statement, guiding principles, community goals and a set of strategies and actions over a five year timeframe, 2010 – 2015. The community vision statement is:

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A vibrant, inclusive, united and confident community which seeks to provide a quality lifestyle and positive interaction between the needs and aspirations of our residents, visitors and environment. Of relevance to the current proposal, the strategy goals include:  to retain and enhance the unique environment, heritage, character and culture of Lord Howe Island  to retain and strengthen the unique marketing appeal and visitor attraction success of Lord Howe Island as a tourism destination  to manage challenges to the unique environment of Lord Howe Island for the benefit of current and future generations  to preserve and enhance the built environment, ensuring it is sustainable, relevant, safe and conducive to Island character. Community wishes and ideas outlined in the strategy which are relevant to the current proposal include: Infrastructure and transport  Encourage greater focus on alternative technology  Remove noisy diesel generators Environment  Maintain the present scenic landscapes  Protect Island environment and World Heritage status  Investigate renewable energy options.

Impact assessment

COMMUNITY WELL-BEING Wind farms have the potential to divide communities because of divergent attitudes and experiences. A state-wide survey of community attitudes to wind farms found that there is strong support for wind farms in NSW, in the respondents’ local region, and at 10 kilometres from the place of residence. However, support reduces to 60% at a distance of 1-2 kilometres (AMR Interactive 2010). Concerns were expressed about noise, visual impact, impact on property prices, safety and heritage values. The survey found that the most important drivers of support for wind farms were attitudinal:  attitudes towards the economic and community benefits of wind farms  the perceived visual and noise impacts  concerns about health, safety and heritage values  perception of wind power relating to clean energy source and its potential in NSW. Public consultation on Lord Howe Island (refer section 5.1) found similarly high levels of community support for renewable energy in general and for the installation of wind turbines and a solar farm on the island. Support for wind turbines, although high overall, was slightly lower than the support shown for solar panels. Residents indicated a good level of understanding about the project and cared about where their energy comes from. Nobody thought the island should continue to rely on imported diesel. The community saw three main issues regarding the proposed wind turbines; noise, visual impacts and wildlife impacts. Warren et al. (2005) studied community views about wind farms in Scotland and Ireland, and found that aesthetic perceptions are the strongest influence on attitudes towards wind farms and that proximity to wind farms is not a reliable indicator of attitudes in the long-term. The study observed that opposition

6625 Final 102 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES arises in part from exaggerated perceptions of wind farms and that living near a wind farm dispels these perceptions over time (Elliott 1994; Redlinger et al. 2002; SEDD 2002; Braunholtz 2003; SEI 2003a in Warren et al. 2005). More positive feelings about wind farms were recorded closer to the wind farm site than further away (Warren et al. 2005). Public attitudes are also influenced by the nature of the planning and development process; the more open and participatory, the greater the level of public support (Birnie et al. 1999; Khan 2003, cited in Warren et al. 2005). Based on community surveys conducted on the island and elsewhere, the proposal is not considered likely to significantly affect community well-being provided:  visual, noise and wildlife impacts can be demonstrated to be acceptable  the assessment and approval process is seen to be open, objective and participatory  the project is set within a strategic planning framework with demonstrated feasibility and justification. These requirements are considered to have been met for this project and significant community impacts are unlikely, subject to the mitigation measures outlined in this report. Further factors relevant to social impacts are discussed in other sections of this report: visual and noise impacts in sections 6.2.3 and section 6.2.2, traffic issues in section 6.3.2 and land use and resource impacts in section 6.3.3.

HEALTH IMPACTS Community concerns regarding the health impacts of wind turbines primarily relate to:  noise and low frequency sound  electromagnetic fields (EMF)  shadow flicker  structural failure and fire. The impact on aviation safety is assessed in section 6.3.1. Noise and low frequency sound In 2012, National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) commissioned an independent review by Adelaide Health Technology Assessment to evaluate the existing scientific evidence regarding the health impacts of wind farms, and a further independent review of additional evidence was commissioned in early 2014 conducted by the Australasian Cochrane Centre and the Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health at Monash University. The NHMRC review focused on large-scale commercial wind farms, rather than smaller wind turbine installations like the current proposal for Lord Howe Island. It is noted that noise emissions increase with turbine size. In relation to the larger scale wind farms, the NHMRC Statement Evidence on Wind Farms and Human Health (NHMRC 2015a) concludes that:  examining whether wind farm emissions may affect human health is complex, as both the character of the emissions and individual perceptions of them are highly variable  after careful consideration and deliberation of the body of evidence, NHMRC concludes that there is currently no consistent evidence that wind farms cause adverse health effects in humans

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 given the poor quality of current direct evidence and the concern expressed by some members of the community, high quality research into possible health effects of wind farms, particularly within 1,500 metres, is warranted. The Information Paper: Evidence on Wind Farms and Human Health (NHMRC 2015b) was finalised in late 2014 following consideration of the body of evidence, public consultations and expert review comments. The paper provides a summary of evidence from research published from 1981 up to May 2014, identified by the two independent reviews. According to the paper, current scientific knowledge indicates that noise from wind turbines, including its content of low-frequency noise and infrasound, is similar to noise from many other natural and human-made sources. Evidence examining health effects of emissions from other sources of environmental noise (such as road traffic) suggests that significant health effects are unlikely beyond 1,500 metres from a wind farm. Further research is required to characterise wind turbine noise (including audible noise, low frequency noise and infrasound) at distances ranging from 500 metres to 3 kilometres and beyond, in different terrains and under varying weather conditions. The NHMRC is currently funding research to determine if there are health effects caused by wind farm emissions (refer section 4.1.6). The information paper found that there is no direct evidence that exposure to wind farm noise affects physical or mental health. There is consistent but poor quality direct evidence that wind farm noise is associated with annoyance. There is less consistent, poor quality direct evidence of an association with sleep disturbance although this was not objectively measured in the studies and a range of other factors could be responsible. There is no direct evidence that considered the possible effects on health of infrasound or low frequency noise from wind farms (NHMRC 2015b) (refer below). The NHMRC findings are consistent with similar studies conducted overseas. An inquiry in Ontario, Canada found that the scientific evidence available to date does not demonstrate a direct causal link between wind turbine noise and adverse health effects, and that the sound level from wind turbines at common residential setbacks is not sufficient to cause hearing impairment or other direct health effects, although some people may find it annoying (CMOH 2010). Following a recommendation in the Senate Select Committee on Wind Turbines final report (SSCWT 2015), the Commonwealth Government has established an Independent Scientific Committee on Wind Turbines to provide advice on noise assessment and standards for wind, including in the field of infrasound and low frequency sound (Hunt 2015). The World Health Organisation has developed guideline exposure values for various types of community noise emissions (WHO 1999). These noise values are designed to avoid long term deterioration in physical or psychological functioning. The guideline of most relevance to the potential impacts of wind farm noise relates to sleep disturbance. The WHO considers that to avoid sleep disturbance night-time noise levels at the outside façade of a dwelling should not exceed 45dBA, where bedrooms have open windows. The noise assessments indicate that residences on the island would experience night time noise levels that are unlikely to exceed the WHO guideline exposure values. Predicted noise levels modelled for different areas around the turbine site indicate that the noise criteria in the NSW draft 2011 and 2016 wind farm guidelines would be met in all cases, including winter and summer nights. While the turbines may be audible at some locations, the guidelines would met at all times and the risk of adverse amenity impact is low. Low frequency noise Low frequency noise (between 20 and 200 Hz) is not typical in modern turbines and is generally less than other environmental noise sources. The draft NSW Guideline describes low frequency noise as typically not

6625 Final 104 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES a significant feature of modern turbine noise and is generally less than that of other environmental noise sources. An analysis of low frequency noise characteristics was undertaken using manufacturer’s data and measured turbine noise at an existing facility with three operating Vergnet MP-C (non-acoustically treated) turbines. No low frequency noise characteristics were identified (Hutchison Weller 2016a); refer section 6.2.2. Infrasound Sound at a frequency lower than 20 Hz is generally termed ‘infrasound’. Lower frequency sounds can travel further through most media than higher frequency sounds. The NHMRC inquiry into wind farms and health found no direct evidence that considered possible effects on health of infrasound or low-frequency noise from wind farms (NHMRC 2015b). Laboratory studies have involved exposures at much higher levels than occurs in the vicinity of wind farms. The poorly understood condition ‘vibroacoustic disease’ has been reported in people with occupational exposure to high levels of low-frequency sound and infrasound. However, studies have shown that other environmental noise sources produce infrasound at similar levels to wind farms. Infrasound measured in the vicinity of wind farms (at distances of 85–7,600 metres) has been reported at levels significantly below the accepted audibility threshold of infrasound frequencies (both outside and inside residences) and levels are similar to those at other locations (e.g. at the beach, in the vicinity of a coastal cliff, near a gas-fired power station and in a city centre away from major roads) (NHMRC 2015b). The NHMRC inquiry Reference Group considered that further research is required to characterise wind farm noise and to develop standardised methods to measure infrasound indoors and outdoors (NHMRC 2015b). A study comparing infrasound in wind farm environments to urban and rural environments away from wind farms (EPA 2013) found that the level of infrasound at houses near the wind turbines assessed is no greater than that experienced in other urban and rural environments, and that the contribution of wind turbines to the measured infrasound levels is insignificant in comparison with the background level of infrasound in the environment. The highest contributors to household infrasound are air-conditioners, traffic and noise generated by people. Sonus (2010) measured infrasound levels near wind farms comprising multiple large capacity turbines at Clements Gap (South Australia) and Cape Bridgewater (Victoria) and compared these with existing sources of infrasound including the beach, power stations and the Adelaide CBD, concluding:  wind turbines generate infrasound, however the levels are well below established perception thresholds, and  the level of infrasound that has been measured in both a rural coastal and an urban environment is of the same order as that measured within 100 metres of a wind turbine. Hutchison Weller completed measurements of Vergnet turbine noise in the infrasound range at an existing facility in Coral Bay, Western Australia with three operating Vergnet MP-C (non-acoustically treated) turbines (Hutchison Weller 2016b); refer section 6.2.2. While the operating turbines did generate a small amount of noise in the infrasonic range, the contribution of the turbines to ambient infrasound was negligible in comparison with infrasound generated by environmental sources such as wind and ocean waves. All measured infrasound was found to be less than the most stringent thresholds of human perception, meaning that infrasound was neither audible nor physiologically perceptible. Based on supplier data, infrasound from the XANT turbine is also likely to be well below the threshold of perception.

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Tonality Noise from the turbines is not expected to feature ‘tonality’, which occurs when a sharply defined note stands out from the background noise (refer section 6.2.2). An analysis of tonal noise characteristics was undertaken using manufacturer’s data and measured turbine noise at an existing facility with three operating Vergnet MP-C (non-acoustically treated) turbines. No tonal characteristics were identified and none are expected at the nearest relevant receivers (Hutchison Weller 2016a). Electromagnetic fields (EMF) The NHMRC inquiry into wind farms and health found no studies that specifically looked at possible effects on human health of electromagnetic radiation from wind farms (NHMRC 2015b). In a study for Windrush, Iravani et al. (2004) found that the measured magnetic field at the door of an existing large scale turbine was 0.4mG and the typical value around the wind turbine was 0.04mG. The acceptable magnetic field is 833mG. The results determined that no measurable magnetic field would be expected at distance of 8 metres from the 1,650 kW wind turbine. The report concluded that ‘It is our strong belief that the magnetic fields produced by the generation and export of electricity from the Windrush wind turbine does not pose a threat to public health’. Shadow flicker Shadow flicker refers to the moving shadows cast by the rotating turbine blades. The incidence of shadow flicker is influenced by a range of factors including position of the sun in relation to the turbine, time of year (season) and time of day, viewer’s distance from turbine, topography, vegetation cover and cloud cover (Fulcrum 3D 2016). The effect attenuates with distance and is not considered to be noticed beyond 500 – 1,000 metres from a turbine (Osten and Pahlke 1998 in Fulcrum 3D 2016). An assessment of shadow flicker impacts has been undertaken by Fulcrum 3D for the wind turbine proposal; refer Appendix C. The assessment considers the impact of the proposal in terms of the 2011 Draft NSW Wind Farm Planning guidelines, which require that: The impact of ‘shadow flicker’ from wind turbines on neighbour’s houses within 2km of a proposed wind turbine should be assessed. The shadow flicker experienced at any dwelling should not exceed 30 hours per year as a result of the operation of the wind farm. Specialist modelling software should be used to model shadow flicker impacts prior to finalisation of the turbine layout. The new draft wind energy framework (DPE 2016) also requires: The shadow flicker caused by certain sun angles in relation to the rotation of wind turbine blades on non-associated residences will be limited to 30 hours per year, and may require mitigation measures such as amended siting and design of turbines to minimise the amount of shadow flicker. The assessment found that all of the 215 buildings within 2 kilometres of the turbines have a total number of shadow flicker hours of less than 30 hours per year. This includes the highest impact to an individual building, 19 hours of shadow flicker per year at the Pinetrees laundry. This would reduce to 13 hours taking cloudy weather into account. The maximum shadow flicker frequency would be approximately 1-1.5 cycles per second (1 Hz), well outside the frequency range of 3-30 Hz associated with flicker vertigo or photosensitive epilepsy. The turbines proposed for this project would be finished in a matte, non-reflective finish to ensure blade glint impacts are reduced as far as possible. In addition, the blades are typically convex which reduces reflection. These measures are considered sufficient to mitigate the risk of blade glint.

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The shadow flicker assessment found that the shadow flicker impacts would comply with the Draft NSW 2011 and 2016 wind farm planning guidelines, would not significantly affect residents and would not require mitigation measures. However, the report identifies a number of measures that could be implemented if required once the wind farm is operational, which have been included among the safeguards below. Structural failure and fire Structural failure risks are considered manageable in view of the location of the turbines and the setback from residences and public spaces. While fires can be associated with mechanical or electrical malfunctioning, the potential for fire in wind turbines is inherently low (CFA 2007) and turbine fires are a relatively rare event globally. The LHI Rural Fire Service brigade would have access to the wind turbine site.

ECONOMIC IMPACTS Tourism A survey of 202 visitors on renewable energy and the proposed hybrid renewable energy system conducted in September-October 2015 indicated that visitors are very supportive of solar panels and supportive of wind turbines on Lord Howe Island. Visitors felt that the presence of renewable energy on Lord Howe Island in the form of a hybrid system of solar panels, wind turbines and batteries would increase the likelihood of them visiting again, or not influence their decision to return at all. Of the 25 people (just over 10%) that might be put off coming back or whose decision might be influenced by the hybrid renewable energy system, several visitors were concerned about the negative visual impact of the wind turbines. There is a correlation between support for renewable energy, especially solar panels, on the island and the appreciation of the island’s natural beauty. The ability to have a good night’s sleep was the thing people valued most about their choice of accommodation, rather than views from the accommodation (Jacobs 2015e). Specific findings from the survey which are relevant to tourism impacts include:  50% of respondents like both wind turbines and solar panels  19% like solar panels but not wind turbines  6% didn’t feel informed enough to give a preference  68% were very supportive or supportive of wind turbines  16% were very unsupportive or unsupportive of wind turbines  88% said that the presence of the hybrid renewable energy system would make the island more attractive to visit, that they would be more likely to return due to ecotourism benefits or that it would not make any difference to their decision to visit the island  just over 10% felt that the implementation of renewable energy on the island might impact their decision to visit the island in future, including 5% saying it depends on the visual impact of the solar panels and turbines, and 4% saying it depends on the noise impacts of the turbines. Based on the survey results, the proposal appears unlikely to have a notable negative affect on tourism assuming, visual and noise impacts are acceptable to visitors. The visual and noise assessments indicate that these impacts are not likely to significantly affect visitors or residents; refer sections 6.2.3 and section 6.2.2. It is noted that potential negative responses from visitors can be mitigated by explaining the need for the hybrid renewable energy system and incorporating the project into the island’s ‘green’ and sustainable marketing image.

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Fuel shipping The MV Island Trader currently delivers diesel fuel and other supplies to the island fortnightly as sea freight, as part of an underlying contract with the Board, which expires in February 2017. The island currently imports around 540,000 litres of diesel for electricity generation each year. Following commissioning of the Stages 1 and 2 of the HREP, this figure is expected to fall to approximately 182,000 litres per year. On 29 February 2016, Andrew Logan (LHIB Manager, Infrastructure and Engineering Services) met with Peter Riddle, Managing Director of Lord Howe Island Sea Freight Pty Ltd to discuss the potential impacts of the fuel import reduction on the business. The reduction in fuel importation would result in a loss of revenue of approximately $100,000 pa. The extent to which alternative routes and adjusted delivery frequency could be used to offset the revenue reduction was not known. Freight hold capacity would not be affected because the diesel is transported in the ship’s fuel tanks. The fuel shipping contract is going to tender in late 2016 for a 5 or 10 year contract period commencing on 1 March 2017. Companies tendering for the contract will be aware of the estimated diesel fuel requirements over the contract period. Land values While public perception of wind farms is highly variable and subjective, there is the potential for a section of the market to be negatively affected by perceived visual or noise impacts. Land values are influenced by prevailing and permitted land uses, economic conditions, access and proximity to markets and workplaces, demand for lifestyle and a range of other factors. Relevant studies into the effects of wind farms on land values are reviewed below. Note that these studies generally relate to high capacity wind power developments with multiple turbines, considerably larger in scale than the current proposal for Lord Howe Island. The NSW Department of Lands (2009) conducted a preliminary assessment of the impact of wind farms on surrounding land values in Australia, using analyses of property sales transaction data. The study considered the contribution of various factors (including distance to a wind farm, view of a wind farm, and land use) to any price changes, positive or negative. The main finding was that the wind farms do not appear to have negatively affected property values in most cases. 40 of the 45 sales investigated did not show any reductions in value. 5 properties were found to have lower than expected sale prices (based on a statistical analysis). While this small number of price reductions correlate with the construction of a wind farm further work is needed to confirm the extent to which these were due to the wind farm or if other factors were involved. No reductions in sale price were evident for rural properties or residential properties located in nearby townships with views of the wind farm. An independent report commissioned by the Office of Environment and Heritage (Urbis 2016) concludes that the available data does not demonstrate that wind farms significantly impact the property values of rural properties used for agricultural purposes. Sterzinger et al. (2003) completed an empirical review in the United States examining price changes at 10 wind farm sites. The study concluded that ‘There is no support for the claim that wind development will harm property values’, although this was qualified with a statement that more data would need to be analysed as it becomes available. A perceptual study conducted in the United Kingdom gauged professional property opinions about the impact wind farm development had on both residential and agricultural land values (RICS 2004). The report concluded the main negative impact on property values are visual impact, fear of blight and the proximity of a property to a wind farm. Seventy-two percent of the sample believed wind farm development had no impact or a positive impact on agricultural land values. Sixty percent believed wind farms decreased the

6625 Final 108 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES value of residential properties where the wind farm was in view. The perceived negative impact was considered likely to decline post completion. Another study (Dent and Sims 2007) looked at 919 residential property transactions at three locations in Cornwall, within 5 miles of wind farms. The study found that the relationship between property price and distance from turbines was inconclusive however it suggested that factors other than wind farms had a more significant effect on property prices. It also concluded that the ‘threat’ of a wind farm may have a more significant impact than the actual presence of one. A further analysis of transaction data analysis in Cornwall concluded that ‘no relationship was observed between the number of wind turbines visible and a reduction in value. Nor was there any significant evidence to suggest a relationship between distance to the wind farm and house price’ (Sims et al. 2008). Henderson and Horning (2006) reported on the land value impact of a wind farm at Crookwell in New South Wales. The report found that the wind farm did not affect the underlying agricultural productive capacity of the land and there had been no reduction in values. No measurable reduction in values for those properties that have a sight line to the development was recorded. The subject site would remain available for cattle grazing and the proposal would have a negligible impact on agricultural returns from the land. Electricity prices It is likely that electricity prices charged to island consumers will continue to rise, regardless of how the energy is produced. However, using renewable energy instead of imported diesel will mean that the rate of increase will be less over time and less exposed to spikes in diesel prices (Jacobs 2016a). The price for diesel, delivered to the island today, is lower than in 2014 when the original business case for the project was developed. However, the reduction in prices is not expected to be a long term trend and the price of diesel is expected to rise steadily over the 20 year life of the project. Based on diesel prices on the Island over the 2015/16 year, and with the addition of the 27.5 cents per litre to account for external costs (refer section 3.3.3), over the 20 year life, the project returns a $-1,950k Net Present Value (NPV) and an Internal Rate of Return of [-2.1%]. If the diesel price increases in line with higher projections, then the project subject to no other changes will have a $+$470k Net Present Value (NPV) and an Internal Rate of Return of 11.1% (refer section 3.3.7). Other positive impacts The proposal would have small, unquantified, but positive benefits in the provision of accommodation and other goods and services during the construction phase.

Environmental safeguards Table 6-19 outlines safeguards intended to avoid or reduce the social and economic impacts of the proposal.

Table 6-19 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate social and economic impacts

Safeguard Phase Community impacts Regular, timely and independent information should be disseminated to the community Pre-construction via methods identified as per the Community Engagement Plan, particularly addressing: Construction • visual, noise and wildlife impacts Operation

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Safeguard Phase • the assessment and approval process • opportunities for consultation and participation in the process • the project strategic context, feasibility, need and justification and benefits.

Shadow flicker The following mitigation measures that could be implemented if shadow flicker is found Operation to be a problem once the wind farm is operational: • if shadow flicker is found to be a nuisance at a particular residence at a known location a physical screen can be placed between the location and the wind turbines. Additional trees or other vegetation can be used to accomplish this. • appropriate mitigation measures will be negotiated and implemented, where necessary, including potential limiting hours of operation on selected turbines or pre-programming the control system of individual wind turbines to automatically shut down while these conditions are present • shadow flicker effects on motorists can be monitored following commissioning and any remedial measures to address concerns would be developed in consultation with the Lord Howe Island Board.

Economic impacts - tourism An explanation of the need for the HREP should be included in tourism communications Operation in the context of the island’s ‘green’ and sustainable World Heritage marketing image.

6.2.8 Cumulative impacts Cumulative impacts can result from the combined effect of similar or different impacts on a particular value or receiver. The cumulative impacts of the proposal are primarily associated with the following issues:  bird and bat flight obstacle and collision risks (section 6.2.1)  vegetation clearing and fragmentation (section 6.2.1)  noise emissions (section 6.2.2)  visual and scenic impacts (section 6.2.3). Cumulative impacts have been assessed in the relevant sections of the ER and specialist assessment reports prepared for the project. Environmental safeguards have also been developed for each of these impact areas. The findings of these studies with respect to cumulative impacts are summarised below.

Visual and scenic impacts The proposal would introduce new and additional character elements within the landscape associated with modern human settlement. Due to the dense nature of the vegetation surrounding the settlement areas, views to the turbines will be limited and set in the context of buildings, and existing infrastructure. The turbines would be comparatively small features from most available viewpoints and would be consistent with the cultural landscape that includes the airport, power station, Airservices Australia towers and cleared farmland. The addition of the turbines is not likely to substantially alter the prevailing landscape character or result in significant cumulative visual impact.

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Bird and bat flight obstacle and collision risks The proposed turbine development would add to the existing obstacle and collision hazards for birds and bats at the subject site, which include the monitoring mast and fencing. The turbulence produced by the turbines may increase the risks of collision with standing obstacles for some species. No other wind turbines are currently operating on the island. The impact assessment for affected species in this report has taken the total cumulative impact of existing and proposed infrastructure into account. Subject to the identified safeguards, the proposal is not considered likely to significantly affect bird and bat species at the population level.

Vegetation clearing and fragmentation The proposal would contribute to the history of vegetation clearing for farmland and housing in the lowland part of the island. About 15% of the island forest has been cleared, mostly Greybark-Blackbutt closed forest (Pickard 1983 in Auld and Hutton 2004). The impacts of clearing have been extended by the dieback effects of the strong, salt laden winds that blow across the island, particularly during winter (Pickard 1983). Exposure dieback has been exacerbated by the invasion of exotic pasture grasses (DECC 2007). The clearing impacts (up to 200m2) would be minor, extending the width of an existing track corridor for a distance of 35 metres. The proposal would marginally add to the fragmentation of habitats on the island. The clearing is not expected to significantly affect threatened or endemic flora and fauna species in terms of habitat loss or fragmentation. The loss of Greybark-Blackbutt closed forest would be offset by restoration works undertaken at the southern end of the turbine paddock.

Noise emissions The noise assessment is based on the cumulative effect of predicted turbine noise levels and existing background noise sources. The assessment found that while the turbines may be audible at some locations, the NSW draft 2011 and 2016 wind farm noise guidelines would be met at all times and the risk of adverse amenity impact is low.

6.3 LOWER RISK FACTORS

6.3.1 Aviation safety

Existing environment The Lord Howe Island airport was constructed in 1974 and is owned and operated by the Board. The airport provides passenger and limited freight services on a daily basis. QantasLink Airlines provide daily services to/from Sydney and twice weekly service to/from Brisbane and Port Macquarie. NSW Air Ambulance provides patient retrieval services for Lord Howe Island. The runway measures 888 metres × 30 metres. Light single, helicopters and large twin engine aircraft commonly use the airport. Lord Howe Island is a transit and refuelling point for light aircraft flying between Australia, Norfolk Island and New Zealand. Lighting is available and activated on request for emergencies only. The airport was resurfaced and drainage improvements implemented in 2015. The airport is a Licenced Security Controlled Airport in accordance with Civil Aviation Regulations and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). There are no ATC radar facilities or private airstrips on Lord Howe Island.

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Existing structures in the study area which infringe the Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS) for the airport include the wind monitoring mast at the proposed turbine site and the two Airservices Australia NDB towers located in the neighbouring paddock north-west of the site. The NDB towers are lit in accordance with CASA’s Manual of Standards Part 139 – Aerodromes (MOS 139).

Impact assessment

AVIATION IMPACT STATEMENT An Aviation Impact Statement (AIS) was completed for the wind turbine proposal (refer TAG (2015), Appendix E) examining potential impact to aviation activities, assessing the proposal against Airservices Australia (AsA) criteria and including an Aeronautical Risk Analysis with regard to lighting and marking. The assessment is based on turbines with a 55 metre high tower, 32 metre diameter blade and blade tip height of 71 metres. The AIS found that the proposed turbines:  do not intrude upon any instrument flight procedure at Lord Howe Island;  do not affect any route lowest safe altitude for air routes overflying Lord Howe Island;  will not influence military operations within the area;  do infringe the inner horizontal OLS for Lord Howe Island; and  do infringe the navigation aid and surveillance sensor areas for the NDB, DME and ADS-B systems. In relation to the infringement upon the protection volumes for navigation aids, it is expected further consideration on the effects of the intrusion will be required by Airservices Australia. The published flight paths do not present any safety issues as minimum lowest safe altitudes are well above the height of the proposed turbines and wind monitoring mast. The AIS concluded that the turbines do not: 1. Penetrate any PANS-OPS surface; or 2. Penetrate any critical surface in relation to air route protection; or 3. Interfere with Military Aircraft Operations; or 4. Impact upon the requirements of CAO 20.7.1B.

QUALITATIVE RISK ASSESSMENT The risk from the proposal has been assessed as low for aerodrome operations, pilot training, recreational flying, medivac or ambulance operations, night flying and weather or visibility issues. There is minimal probability of an aircraft colliding with a wind turbine during the day or night or due to poor weather conditions.

COMMUNICATIONS NAVIGATION SURVEILLANCE IMPACT ANALYSIS IDS (2016) was engaged to undertake a detailed technical analysis of the potential impact of the propose turbines on the following communications/navigation/surveillance systems installed at the Lord Howe Island Airport:  Distance Measurement Equipment (DME)  Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) equipment

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 Very High Frequency (VHF) equipment.

Figure 6-12 CNS equipment installed near the proposed wind turbine site (detail from IDS 2016)

The analysis used simulation tools available in the IDS ElectroMagnetic Airport Control and Survey (EMACS) software suite. The results of the analysis with respect to each of the systems is summarised below. DME equipment There is a reduction of optical visibility, but there is no impact on the flight procedure and published routes sectors. There is no impact on DME radio coverage across flight procedure sectors. ADS-B equipment There is a masking effect on optical visibility caused by the wind turbines, but there is no impact on the flight procedure sectors and specific published routes. Radio coverage masking effects can be considered to have negligible impact for flight procedure sectors. VHF equipment There is a reduction of optical visibility, but there is no impact on the flight procedure and published routes sectors. There is no impact on VHF radio coverage across flight procedure sectors and published routes. The Communications Navigation Surveillance Impact Analysis report (IDS 2016) has been submitted to Airservices Australia and comments are expected back in late September-early October.

Environmental safeguards Table 6-20 outlines safeguards intended to avoid or reduce the noise impacts of the construction and operation of the proposed wind turbines.

Table 6-20 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate air safety impacts

Safeguard Phase The Board should consider feedback from AsA on the Communications Navigation Planning and Surveillance Impact Analysis (IDS 2016) in relation to impacts to NDB, DME and ADS-B assessment systems and mitigation of the navigation aid and ADS-B clearance plane penetrations in particular. The Board should make contact with all relevant aviation stakeholders prior to the Planning and construction of the wind farm, documenting consultations and the outcomes in relation assessment to the proposed wind farm. Pre-construction The Board should engage with its legal and insurance advisors in considering its own Planning and corporate qualitative risk assessment and duty of care responsibilities with regard to the assessment requirements for aviation obstacle lighting.

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Safeguard Phase Should the wind farm proceed, the Board should notify CASA of any development or Pre-construction construction in the vicinity of the aerodrome (within 15km) that is likely to be a hazard to air navigation. Should the wind farm proceed, the Board shall report to CASA and to the RAAF AIS the Pre-construction relevant details about the wind farm in accordance with CASA AC 139-08(0) and CAAP 89W-2 (Reporting of Tall Structures). Subject to approval of the wind turbines, medium intensity obstacle lighting should be Pre-construction installed on the nacelle in such a manner as to provide an unobstructed view for aircraft Construction approaching in any direction. Refer to ICAO (Annex 14) and CASA AC 139-18(0) Obstacle Marking and Lighting of Wind Farms. It is anticipated that CASA will be advised of the proposal and, if accepted, the turbines will be marked and lit in accordance with the ICAO Annex 144.

6.3.2 Traffic and access

Existing environment The road network on the island is managed by the Board, which also regulates the importation and use of vehicles. A 25 kilometre per hour speed limit applies to all roads on the island. Background traffic volumes are expected to be low. The roads are mostly used by light vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians. An access track would be constructed across the Portion 230 paddock to the north of the subject site as part of the HREP solar farm approval. An existing 50 metre long unsealed track along a section of LEP road reserve between the Portion 230 and Portion 101 paddocks would be widened and sealed for the current project.

Impact assessment

TRAFFIC DELAYS AND INCONVENIENCE The construction traffic would use Lagoon Road, Middle Beach Road and Anderson Road to access the subject site. The construction phase is expected to be approximately 3 months duration, although construction traffic would be intermittent within this period. A 15 km/hr speed limit would apply to all delivery and construction traffic. Some materials and equipment deliveries will require larger vehicles and involve long or wide loads. This may result in minor traffic delays for other road users. Long components such as turbine blades may be transported to the site manually using trolley wheels, and this may also result in minor traffic delays. In view of the short distances involved, the infrequent nature of traffic disruptions and the relatively minor speed reduction imposed on construction traffic, the proposal is not likely to produce significant traffic delays and inconvenience for other road users. The operation phase will not result in any change in traffic numbers along Anderson Road to the powerhouse. There will only be a slight increase in light vehicle traffic to the subject site for maintenance and monitoring purposes.

ROAD USER SAFETY The use of large vehicles and oversize loads is likely to require the use of both driving lanes on at least some parts of the construction access route. In these cases, traffic controls should be implemented. The construction access route will pass through residential areas, where the proposed construction traffic speed limit should be rigidly enforced in these areas. Subject to safety measures for oversize loads and

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WILDLIFE COLLISION RISKS Wildlife collision risks have been assessed in section 6.2.1. Traffic would travel would be restricted daylight hours to minimise collision risks to native birds, and construction traffic would not be scheduled during the dawn and sunset Flesh-footed Shearwater activity periods. The works are not likely to result in significant traffic impacts to wildlife.

Environmental safeguards Table 6-21 outlines safeguards intended to avoid or reduce the traffic impacts of the construction and operation of the proposed wind turbines.

Table 6-21 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate traffic impacts

Safeguard Phase The Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) should include details Construction regarding construction traffic routes and speed limit, road use time restrictions, protocols for oversize loads, large vehicles and road closures and vehicle communications. Induction of staff and contractors should cover the construction traffic matters detailed Construction in the CEMP and explain potential risks to wildlife, cyclists and pedestrians. Traffic controls should be used where long or wide loads require the use of both road Construction lanes, having regard to layby parking and sight lines. Where practicable, road closures should avoid key use periods such as work and school Construction start/finish times. Notification and explanation of any traffic disruptions should be made to road users in Pre-construction advance of the works to minimise inconvenience. The notification should include a Construction contact person and phone number for concerns regarding the traffic aspects of the project. Pedestrian and private vehicle access to the subject site should be controlled using Construction signage (and barriers if required) during the construction period.

6.3.3 Tenure, land use and resources

Existing environment The turbine site is located on leased Crown Land mapped as Portion 101 and included in Zone 7 Environmental Protection under the Lord Howe Island LEP (refer Figure 2-2). The proposed works are permissible with consent under the LEP. The site is within a cleared paddock approximately 1.5 hectares in area, located on a moderate gradient midslope of a ridgeline rising to the south toward Transit Hill (135 metres). The site has primarily been used for dairy cattle grazing for the past 70 years (RPS 2015), although the soils are relatively poor and the site is not prime agricultural land (LHIB 2015). The site is on basalt geology, with shallow soil and areas of outcropping rock. The groundcover in the paddock is largely exotic pasture grasses and weeds. The

6625 Final 115 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES paddock is surrounded by native closed forest vegetation. The turbine site (Portion 101) is almost surrounded by the Permanent Park Preserve (refer Figure 2-1 and Figure 2-2). Access to the subject site would use the southernmost 50 metres of an undeveloped road reserve passing through Portion 230 to the Portion 101 turbine paddock; refer Figure 2-2. The proposal would extend the existing track into Portion 101 to provide access to the turbine sites. A Special Lease is in place for Portions 101 and 230.

Impact assessment The subject site would remain available for cattle grazing, and the lessee has agreed to the use of the paddock for the wind turbines. The arrangement would be formalised so that the loss of grazing land was valued, and the lessee compensated accordingly. The Special Lease would be amended to reflect the combined changes of the Stage 1, and Stage 2 if approved. It is estimated that the proposal would result in the displacement of pasture area of up to 15 m2 per turbine from the construction of the turbine tower, fenced guy anchors and electrical kiosks, and up to 600 m2 from the construction of the access track through the paddock. This loss of pasture would persist for the 20 year life of the wind turbines. A 0.17 hectare offset area within Portion 101 to the south of the subject site would also be excluded from grazing. This loss of pasture area is not expected to have a significant effect on current production levels or farm economics. Temporarily disturbed areas (cable trenches and access track verges) would be reinstated and are expected to retain agricultural land use values. The upgraded access track would be maintained by the Board and would improve lessee access to the turbine paddock. The proposal is not expected to significantly affect the long term land use options, agricultural productivity or potential of the subject site. The materials required for the project are not currently depleted or restricted in supply. The proposal is unlikely to place significant pressure on the availability of local or regional resources. Life cycle analysis modelling in Denmark showed that the energy ‘payback’ time was 0.26 years for a wind farm on land. It was also found that 94% of the materials used for construction of a wind turbine could be recycled (Schleisner 2000).

Environmental safeguards The safeguards intended to protect soils and water values at the subject are also relevant to the protection of land use and resource values; refer section 6.3.4. Table 6-22 outlines additional safeguards intended to avoid negative impacts to land uses at the subject site.

Table 6-22 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate land use impacts

Safeguard Phase The affected leaseholder should be consulted and given advance notification of Pre-construction construction activities, including any activities which may affect access or use of the Construction subject site. The works should be scheduled to minimise any stock exclusion time at the subject site. Construction Pastures and farm infrastructure (including fencing) should be reinstated to prior or Construction better condition as soon as practicable following the works. Post-construction The proponent should control weeds at the subject site for at least one year following Post-construction the works.

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6.3.4 Physical natural values

Existing environment

HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Hydrology on the island varies markedly with geology. Calcarenite and alluvial soils are present the lowland settlement area and generally have high infiltration rates. Groundwater resources have been degraded in this area by over-extraction and the impacts of waste disposal systems (Smith and Eyre 1996). Upland volcanic soils are heavier and shallower, and are likely to have higher rates of runoff. The subject site is located on a ridgeline and there are no watercourses or wetlands present at the site. The soils in paddock and forest areas to the north of the site are derived from calcarenite and are likely to be highly permeable. An open drainage depression and low saddle is located approximately 120 metres north of the proposed access track to the turbine paddock. Part of the saddle area is mapped as flood prone. No groundwater was detected in 1.8 metre deep test pits excavated in this area for the powerhouse proposal (Coffey Geotechnics 2011). Forested first order watercourses are present either side of the turbine paddock ridge, ranging 50 to 100 metres from the works site.

TOPOGRAPHY, SOILS AND GEOLOGY The proposed turbine site is located on the midslope of a moderate gradient ridgeline on the northern side of Transit Hill (135 metres), with a generally northwesterly aspect and an elevation of around 60 metres. The Lord Howe Island Group is part of the largely submerged Lord Howe Island Rise, a volcanic undersea ridge between the Tasman and the New Caledonian Basins. Lord Howe Island is thought to be the remnant of a large shield volcano on the western edge of the Rise (DECC 2007). The Lord Howe Island area contains a remarkably diverse range of on-going geological processes and provides the only accessible outcrop of a wide range of volcanic rocks with oceanic affinities in the Tasman Sea (Commonwealth of Australia 2002). The wind turbine subject site is located on the North Ridge Basalt rock unit (refer Figure 6-13), which underlies most of the island and consists of many lava flows 1 to 10 metres in thickness, typical of shield volcano deposits (Thompson et al. 1987). The geology of the lowlands, including the settlement area, is mainly sedimentary calcarenite or dune limestone (DECCW 2010). A geotechnical survey of the subject site confirmed the presence of basalt (Jacobs 2015a). The topsoil in the mapped unit containing the turbine sites is described as 0 to 0.2 metres deep, comprising very soft to soft, silty sandy clay, dark brown/grey, low plasticity clay, fine to medium grained sand, with trace roots, organic, moist (Jacobs 2015a). Residual soil occurs at 0.1 to 2.3 metres, which is very stiff to hard gravelly clay with some silt and sand and occasional basalt lenses. Grey-dark grey, medium to high strength basalt is present at 0.3 to 2.3 metres. Soil testing indicates very low chlorides and sulphate conditions, and high resistivity. Assessed against criteria in AS2159, the soil classification is ‘non-aggressive’ for concrete and steel structures in contact with soil (Jacobs 2015a). There is no potential for acid sulphate soils at the subject site. There are no contaminated sites indicated for Lord Howe Island in the NSW Environment Protection Authority contaminated land database (EPA 2016). The Board has received anecdotal advice that there has been no use of cattle dips or chemicals on the land (RPS 2015).

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Figure 6-13 Mapped geology of the study area and subject site (circled red). Source: Thompson et al. 1987.

LOCAL CLIMATE AND AIR QUALITY The climate on Lord Howe Island is subtropical, and moderated by oceanic air currents and mild sea temperatures. Summers warm and winters are wet and cool (DECC 2007). The mean temperature range in February is from 21.0°C-25.6°C and 13.9-18.9°C in July, and the mean annual rainfall is 1512.7 mm. Relative humidity is even throughout the day and the year, at around 65-70% (BOM 2016). The island is generally windy, predominantly from the south-east and north-east, with stronger winds in late winter and spring (LHIB 2002 in DECC 2007). Given the low level of development, absence of heavy industry and wind exposure, the air quality on the island is assumed to be very high. Localised emission sources include vehicle exhaust and dust. The nearest residential receivers are located 280 metres from the subject site and along the construction traffic access route. Climate change For the projected climate in 2050 in the North Coast Region (including Lord Howe Island), the weather is predicted to be hotter, with average maximum temperatures increasing in all seasons (OEH 2011). Maximum temperatures are predicted to increase most in winter and spring (by approximately 2-3°C). Average minimum temperatures will also increase. The length of hot spells (number of days with a daily maximum >35°C) is likely to increase. An increase in the number of high-category cyclones is possible; however, a decrease in total number of cyclones is likely (IPCC 2007b in OEH 2011). Interannual variability in rainfall is likely to increase, causing more extreme droughts during El Niño periods. There is potential for significant increases in coastal inundation (storm surges) due to increased mean sea levels and more intense weather systems. Assuming a projected increase in sea level of 50 cm by 2050, a coastline recession of 30-50 metres is possible (OEH 2011).

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Impact assessment The exposed location and limited exhaust emissions from equipment and vehicles during construction phase should ensure that local and regional air impacts are negligible. Measures to minimise air quality impacts from vehicle and equipment emissions and dust at the subject site and along the access routes are included among safeguards listed below. The reduction in diesel use that is intended to result from the proposal would contribute to efforts to minimise the harmful effects of climate change. The proposed works would require the excavation of soils and rock to install the footings for the gin pole winch anchor, turbine tower pivot, tower cradle (to support the turbine lying down) and the guy wire anchor footing pads (3 per turbine), the trenching of electrical and telecommunications cabling and construction of the access track. Subject to engineering design, the guy anchors would be likely to require the excavation of material to bedrock in areas 2 metres square. Bedrock occurs at the site at around 1 metre depth, requiring removal and redistribution as fill of an estimated 40 m3 of material. Cable trenches would be co-located with the access road through the forest patch in the west of the site, and located in exotic pasture in the turbine paddock. The cable trenching would be approximately 280 metres long, 1000 to 1200 mm deep and 600mm wide, excavated using an excavators or backhoes where possible. The use of hydraulic rock picks/hammers or blasting may be required where shallow basalt outcrop is encountered at pad footing sites and on trenchlines. The upgrade of the access track would require minor cutting and filling. The track surface would be stripped of all topsoil and organic matter (if present) and replaced with compacted engineered materials before sealing. The access road works would require the widening of the existing access track section between Portions 230 and 101 (approximately 50 metres), and the extension of the access track into the Portion 101 turbine paddock (approximately 200 metres). Recommended methods and designs are detailed in the geotechnical report prepared for the project (Jacobs 2015a). Exposed soils will create risks of soil erosion, sedimentation in adjacent water courses and vegetation and impacts on local water quality. Turbid runoff has potential to impact downstream estuarine and marine environments. In view of the limited scale of the soil disturbance, these risks are considered manageable using best practice erosion and sedimentation control during the construction phase and post-construction rehabilitation. The works would not affect any feature of geological or hydrological significance. The risks to downstream water quality would be further mitigated by the closed forest and Kikuyu pasture vegetation cover around the subject site. Subject to effective site rehabilitation and the implementation of the safeguards outlined below, the works are not likely to significantly affect air, water or soil values in the study area.

Environmental safeguards Table 6-23 outlines safeguards intended to avoid or reduce the impacts of the proposal to air, water and soil values. Further information on the content and operation of Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP) is provided in section 8.

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Table 6-23 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate impacts to air, water and soil values

Safeguard Phase Air quality Plant should be operated efficiently and turned off when not in use. Equipment and Construction plant should be fitted with appropriate emission control and maintained according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Vehicle loads of material which may create dust would be covered while using the island Construction road system.

Soil protection and water quality The Construction Environmental Management Plan should include the following Pre-construction provisions: Construction  Sediment traps would be installed wherever there is potential for sediment to collect and enter waterways  Stockpiles generated as a result of construction activities would not be located in or near drainage lines and would be bunded with silt fencing to reduce the potential for runoff from these areas  Erosion and sedimentation controls would be in place prior to the commencement of works at the site. The area of vegetation and soil disturbed by the works should be minimised. Construction Soils excavated from trenches should be reinstated by restoring the original soil profile Construction to retain the seed bank and maintain site productivity. The Construction Environmental Management Plan should contain a Spill Control Plan Pre-construction which would specify: Construction  Names and roles of persons that are responsible for implementing the plan if a spill of a dangerous or hazardous chemical/waste should occur  Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all chemical inventories are to be located on site and readily available  Where chemicals are used, their application and disposal would comply with manufacturers recommendations  Any spill that occurs, regardless of size or type of spill, would be reported to the Construction Manager  The event and clean up processes would be recorded. Information that would be recorded includes time and date of spill, type of chemical or waste spilt, approximate volume spilt, general area in which the spill occurred, corrective actions applied, and disposal of spilt material  Spill protocols in the plan would indicate when the EPA would be notified. Machinery should be operated and maintained in a manner that minimises risk of Construction hydrocarbon spill. Maintenance or re-fuelling of machinery should be carried out on hard-stand areas (i.e. Construction existing or proposed road surface or hard-stand areas beneath turbines, not on areas that either contain native vegetation, or would be revegetated). Any dangerous goods or hazardous materials stored on-site should be stored in a secure Construction and adequately sized bunded area.

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Safeguard Phase Concrete wash should be deposited in a suitable location off-site in an excavated area, Construction below the level of the topsoil. Access routes and parking/laydown areas would be confined to already disturbed areas, Construction where possible. The Construction Environmental Management Plan should contain a Site Restoration Pre-construction Plan which would cover: Construction  Site preparation  Stabilisation  Re-establishment of pasture cover  Monitoring and maintenance. Soil stabilisation and re-establishment of pasture cover should occur progressively and Construction without delay during the construction period. The re-establishment of native vegetation would be guided by the Lord Howe Island Construction Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan 2002-2007 (LHIB 2002).

6.3.5 Waste

Existing environment The subject site is a grazing paddock with minimal waste apparent at the time of the site visit. Occasional vegetation management at the site (grass slashing, branch trimming) may produce green waste, and stock manure is present on pasture at the site. The Board manages waste generated on the island through the Waste Management Facility (WMF) located near the airport. The WMF operates in accordance with the Lord Howe Island Waste Minimisation and Management Strategy and a licence issued under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1977 issued by the NSW Environment Protection Authority. The island has no land fill capability so all waste which is not able to be composted or used on the island is shipped to the mainland for recycling, reuse or land fill disposal (LHIB 2016).

Impact assessment The proposed works are likely to generate a range of waste materials at the subject site including packaging, vegetation slash and construction materials. Hazardous wastes, flammable materials and biohazards may also be present at the site, including hydrocarbons, fertilisers and herbicides. It is unlikely that toilet facilities would be required at the subject site. Waste would be either recycled for use at the site or elsewhere, or sent to the WMF for re-use, processing or removal from the island. Most waste would be produced during the construction phase. Operation phase wastes are unlikely to be significantly higher than existing waste levels produced by Board activities. Subject to the mitigation measures provided in this report, the works are not likely to produce significant waste impacts at the subject site or elsewhere on the island.

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Environmental safeguards Safeguards concerning the management of concrete waste, soil and vegetative waste and chemical spill risks are provided in relevant sections of this report. Table 6-24 outlines additional safeguards intended to avoid or reduce the waste impacts of the construction and operation of the proposed wind turbines.

Table 6-24 Safeguards to avoid and mitigate waste impacts

Safeguard Phase Specific arrangements for managing waste should be incorporated into the Construction Pre-construction Environmental Management Plan. Construction Waste would be reused or recycled whenever possible. Separate recyclable materials Construction receptacles would be provided (eg. or glass, plastics and aluminium). Packaging materials and general construction wastes would be disposed of at the LHI Construction Waste Management Facility. Waste being transported from the site would be covered where there is a risk of debris Construction or dust escaping from vehicle loads. Any waste which is collected and stored at the site would be managed to prevent Construction pollution of the environment due to wind or rainfall runoff. Any hazardous wastes would be managed in accordance with the Construction Construction Environmental Management Plan and relevant regulatory requirements.

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7 REHABILITATION AND RESTORATION

7.1 POST-WORKS REHABILITATION

The rehabilitation of soils and vegetation at the subject site would be managed through the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) which would include a Sediment and Erosion Control Plan and a Site Restoration Plan (refer section 8). The Site Restoration Plan would cover:  Site preparation  Stabilisation  Re-establishment of pasture cover  Monitoring and maintenance. Standard sedimentation and erosion control measures would be implemented during the construction phase. The CEMP would also incorporate the environmental safeguards provided in this Environmental Report. The safeguards aim to protect significant environmental features and reduce the need for rehabilitation by restricting the area of impact and avoiding damage to soils and vegetation from uncontrolled runoff and sedimentation. Following construction, waste, materials and equipment would be removed and temporary disturbance areas would be rehabilitated and reseeded with suitable pasture species. Topsoil would be removed, securely stockpiled and reinstated following the works. Disturbed pasture and road verge areas would be laid with exotic grass turf or sown with an infertile perennial ryegrass variety.

7.2 DEVELOPMENT SITE RESTORATION

The proposed turbines would be located in exotic pasture with no requirement for post-works restoration of native vegetation. The widening and straightening of the access track to the turbine site would involve the clearing of some native vegetation. There may be opportunities to restore native vegetation in some of this area following the works. Consistent with the LEP, any re-establishment of native vegetation would be carried out in accordance with the Lord Howe Island Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan 2002-2007 (LHIB 2002). Environmental safeguards in this Environmental Report which area relevant to the protection and restoration of native vegetation and habitats include: Impact minimisation

 The clearing of native vegetation at the access track site should be the minimum required to allow the passage of the construction vehicles and machinery.

 Native vegetation to be retained at the access track site, and native dune vegetation either side of the barge landing ramp and track, should be fenced or otherwise clearly marked during the construction period to prevent peripheral or accidental impacts.  Where practicable and adequate for construction access, native shrubs and vines should be trimmed and retained on the road verge rather than cleared to encourage regeneration and reduce the vigour of exotic grasses and weeds at the edge of the forest.

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Restoration  Any topsoil stripped from parts of the site carrying native vegetation should be stored and reused in revegetation at the site to encourage regeneration from soil-borne propagules.  Vegetation cleared from the site should be chipped and spread on bare areas, or used as mulch for restoration planting at the site.  If practicable, the tree canopy either side of the access track should be allowed to grow back over the track corridor following the construction phase to reduce fragmentation impacts and improve resilience against weeds.  Subject to continued accessibility for maintenance of the turbines, it may be possible to revegetate disturbed areas beside the upgraded access track.  If required to be removed, the other dead Scalybark [at the access track site] should be used as log habitat in adjacent forest. A range of additional measures are prescribed if pre-works surveys detect the Lord Howe Placostylus in forest habitat at the proposed access track site.

7.3 OFFSET SITE RESTORATION

It is proposed to offset the native vegetation clearing required in the upgrading of the access track with an area of restoration planting located in the Portion 101 block to the south of the subject site. The offset proposal is detailed in the Biodiversity Assessment (Appendix A).

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8 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

8.1 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK

Environmental protection and management measures would be implemented via a Project Environmental Management Plan (PEMP). The PEMP would comprise a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) prepared by the contractor and an Operation Environmental Management Plan (OEMP) prepared by the Board. The community-based Sustainable Energy Working Group would have an ongoing advisory role throughout the construction and operation phases of the project. The PEMP would include performance indicators, timeframes, implementation and reporting responsibilities, communications protocols, a monitoring program, auditing and review arrangements, emergency responses, induction and training and complaint/dispute resolution procedures. The monitoring and auditing program would clearly identify any residual impacts after mitigation. Adaptive management would be used to ensure that improvements are consolidated in updated EMPs. The PEMP framework is illustrated in Figure 8-1. The PEMP would incorporate all of the specific environmental safeguards contained in this Environmental Report.

Figure 8-1 Post-approval Project Environmental Management Plan (PEMP) process (source: DIPNR 2004).

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8.2 ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT

Adaptive management is way of dealing with uncertainty and risk in relation to impacts, performance or assumptions. It is often characterised as ‘learning by doing’, enabling managers to select and refine management actions which are best able to achieve specified objectives. The elements of an adaptive management model are summarised in Figure 8-2.

Figure 8-2 Adaptive management elements (OEH 2015)

Pre-requisites for adaptive management include:  clear objectives, indicators, targets and thresholds in relation to impacts  a scientifically sound, repeatable and practical monitoring and evaluation process  identified alternative management or contingency measures that can be applied in the event of unexpected outcomes. An Adaptive Management Plan would be developed for the proposal as part of the OEMP, covering the following areas of uncertainty and risk:  bird and bat mortality from bladestrike  noise impacts to residents and visitors  visual impacts  heritage impacts (visual or acoustic). The plan would incorporate the relevant mitigation and monitoring measures contained in this Environmental Report. A key contingency measure available to the project is the capacity to shut down one or both of the turbines during specific times of the day or year to minimise bladestrike risks to birds and bats, or reduce night time noise impacts on residents and visitors. Unexpected visual and landscape impacts may be addressed via the establishment of screening vegetation or other barriers. The Adaptive Management Plan, the results of monitoring and the implementation of any additional mitigation measures under the plan would be published on the Board website.

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8.3 CONSOLIDATED SAFEGUARDS

The environmental safeguards contained in this report comprise project-specific mitigation measures, recommendations from specialist assessment reports and reference to a range of best practice guidelines and regulatory requirements. The environmental safeguards are to be incorporated in project plans and designs, contract specifications and the Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan as appropriate. The safeguards are consolidated below.

No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase 1. Flora and ecological communities Training and induction 1.1 The induction of project staff should emphasise the ecological sensitivity of the site. Staff should be made aware of Contractor Construction significant vegetation features, potential environmental risks, environmental protection measures and emergency response protocols and equipment. Site protection 1.2 The clearing of native vegetation at the access track site should be the minimum required to allow access of construction Contractor Construction vehicles and machinery. The extent of clearing should be marked with tape or pegs to ensure no overclearing. 1.3 Where practicable and adequate for construction access, native shrubs and vines should be trimmed and retained on the Contractor Construction road verge rather than cleared to encourage regeneration and reduce the vigour of exotic grasses and weeds at the edge of the forest. 1.4 Vehicle access and parking and materials and equipment laydown should be confined to disturbed pasture areas dominated Contractor Construction by exotic grasses. These activities should not be undertaken within the dripline of forest trees at the site. 1.5 Stockpiles of soil, gravel or other materials should be protected from runoff and contained using sediment fencing to Contractor Construction prevent sedimentation of adjacent native vegetation and habitat areas. 1.6 All sediment control must use clean sediment fencing, rather than haybales to prevent the importation of weeds and exotic Contractor Construction insects. 1.7 Native vegetation to be retained at the access track site, and native dune vegetation either side of the Waste Management Contractor Construction Facility barge landing ramp and track, should be fenced or otherwise clearly marked during the construction period to prevent peripheral or accidental impacts. Biosecurity and weed control 1.8 Excavated materials imported for the project should be certified Virgin Excavated Natural Material to minimise weed risks. Contractor Construction

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase 1.9 The noxious weeds Ground Asparagus, Sweet Pittosporum and Cherry Guava should be controlled at the subject site prior to Board Pre-construction the works to assist the recovery of native species. The occurrence of these and other noxious and invasive weeds should be Construction monitored and controlled at the site for at least one year following the works. 1.10 All earthmoving equipment, tools and any prefabricated barrier fencing etc imported to the island for construction should Contractor Construction be cleaned of any soil, insects and pathogens and certified as clean prior to their departure. To prevent the spread of Phytopthora and Myrtle Rust all tools etc that have been exposed to soil must be cleaned with Phyto-clean prior to importation. Equipment and materials should remain in quarantine at the LHI jetty or point of arrival until cleared by the LHI MEWH. 1.11 The National Best Practice Guidelines for managing Phytophthora cinnamomi for biodiversity conservation (Gara et al. 2005) Contractor Construction and the Arrive Clean, Leave Clean guidelines (DOE 2015) and the Lord Howe Island Biosecurity Strategy (AECOM 2015) should be applied to prevent the introduction and spread of pests and diseases at the site. Rehabilitation, restoration and offsetting 1.12 Soils excavated from trenches should be reinstated by restoring the original soil profile to retain the seed bank and site Contractor Construction productivity. 1.13 Any topsoil stripped from parts of the site carrying native vegetation should be stored and reused in revegetation at the site Contractor Construction to encourage regeneration from soil-borne propagules. 1.14 Vegetation cleared from the site should be chipped and spread on bare areas, or used as mulch for restoration planting at Contractor Construction the offset site. Board 1.15 Subject to continued accessibility for maintenance of the turbines, consideration should be given to revegetating disturbed Board Operation areas beside the upgraded access track to reduce vegetation loss and fragmentation impacts. Any restoration work should follow the guidelines in the Lord Howe Island Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan 2002-2007 (LHIB 2002). 1.16 If practicable, the tree canopy either side of the access track should be allowed to grow back over the track corridor Board Construction following the construction phase to reduce fragmentation impacts and improve resilience against weeds. Operation 1.17 The loss of native vegetation should be offset with restoration planting and site protection consistent with the proposed Board Construction biodiversity offset described in Appendix A. Operation 2. Fauna

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase 2.1 Of the turbine options, the 200 kW Vergnet wind turbines at locations WTG1 and/or WTG2 are recommended to minimise Board Planning bird impacts. Construction Operation 2.2 Any lights on the turbine towers activated for scheduled or emergency night flights would be remotely activated and red in Planning colour. If any white light is used, the turbines should be shut down while the lights are on, in case the FFSW are attracted to Construction the light. Operation Pre-construction bird surveys 2.3 Surveys should be conducted recording the flight patterns of diurnal birds, especially seabirds, early in their breeding season Board Pre-construction (September-December) to further assess potential impacts of the turbines on the status of Lord Howe Island’s bird populations. These surveys should be conducted monthly, over three consecutive days per month. The conclusions of the assessment should be reviewed following the completion of these surveys. Tree clearing 2.4 If possible, the dead hollow-bearing Scalybark tree at the southern end of the access track site should be retained, and Board Construction fenced during the works to avoid accidental damage. If the tree needs to be removed, the following protocol should be Contractor followed:  if practicable, clearing should avoid the September-February breeding period and the winter hibernation period of the Large Forest Bat (ie clear during autumn)  hollows present in the tree should be inspected well before the clearing, and again immediately prior to clearing  a potential translocation site should be identified prior to the works. Note that the Large Forest Bat is a colonial species and there may be many individuals to relocate  an ecologist or wildlife carer should be present during tree felling to inspect the tree before and after felling  where practicable hollow-bearing trees should be removed in a manner which causes least disturbance to resident fauna. 2.5 Any dead Scalybark trees which require removal should be used as log habitat in adjacent forest. Board Construction Contractor Threatened species protection

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase 2.6 The proposed access road clearing area and a 5 metre wide buffer should be searched for Lord Howe Placostylus individuals Board Pre-works and shells prior to the works. If shells or live snails are found, consideration should be given to additional measures to Contractor Construction reduce habitat loss and barrier impacts including: Operation  relocating any live individuals into adjacent habitat areas  redistributing litter on the track verges and adjacent areas  if possible, retaining an unsealed 3 metre wide track, with a vegetated ground surface and gravelled traction strips for vehicle access as required  minimising shrub and tree clearing – refer flora measure above  following construction, using fencing and planting to reduce track corridor width to the minimum necessary for ongoing operation of the turbines  excluding cattle grazing in the track section passing through potential Placostylus habitat to protect snails and assist the restoration of vegetation cover  allowing the adjacent tree canopy to grow over the track corridor  undertaking follow-up control of Ground Asparagus and other weeds at the site  intensifying and expanding local rat baiting if required. 2.7 Turbine operation should be curtailed during the peak daily return period of Flesh-footed Shearwaters to the nesting and Board Operation roosting colony i.e. from 15 minutes before dusk to 2 hours after dusk during the Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding season (15 September to 15 May). 2.8 In the infrequent event that the turbines are covered in low cloud, mist or fog and the prevailing wind speed is above the Board Operation turbine cut-in speed (3-3.5 m/s), the turbines would be shut down to avoid bladestrike risks to birds. 2.9 The maximum extent of works should be fenced or clearly marked on the north-eastern side of the turbine paddock to avoid Contractor Construction peripheral impacts to the Flesh-footed Shearwater colony. 2.10 Fencing around turbine guy anchors should not use barbed wire and should not create an entrapment hazard for the Flesh- Contractor Construction footed Shearwater. A minimum 200mm gap should be left between the ground and lower fence wire. Grass should be kept Board Operation low under the fences.

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase 2.11 To avoid significant disturbances to brooding adults and chicks, no blasting associated with the construction of the turbine Board Construction foundations would occur during Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding season of the (15 September to 15 May). Contractor 2.12 Measures to minimise traffic impacts on seabirds and the Lord Howe Island Woodhen should include: Contractor Construction  construction traffic should be restricted to daylight hours (except for emergencies)  construction traffic between September and May should be subject to a speed limit of 15 km/hr on Anderson Road between Middle Beach Road and the subject site  staff induction should cover traffic restrictions and species at risk from vehicle collisions  construction works should be organised to minimise vehicle movements. 2.13 If practicable, trenches for underground cabling should be covered or filled overnight. Where this is not possible, trenches Contractor Construction should be inspected each morning and any trapped native wildlife released into nearby suitable habitat. The Board’s Manager Environment/World Heritage should be notified immediately if any threatened species (Placostylus, Lord Howe Skink, Lord Howe Gecko) are detected in the excavations. Biosecurity 2.14 Any materials transferred to the site from elsewhere on the island should be inspected for African Big-headed Ants, rodents Contractor Construction and other introduced pest species prior to movement. Board Monitoring, response and adaptive management 2.15 An Adaptive Management Plan (AMP) should be developed and in place before the start of the operational phase of the Board Planning project. The AMP should incorporate threshold numbers of mortalities for threatened and migratory bird species which Operation triggers an interim shutdown of the turbines while additional mitigation actions are determined in consultation with experts and considering additional recruitment resulting from any offsetting measures. 2.16 The AMP should detail management responses to unexpectedly high mortalities of threatened and migratory bird species, Board Planning or significant changes in breeding success or habitat utilisation. The following contingency responses should be included: Operation • A Flesh-footed Shearwater nesting habitat restoration program involving construction of a raised walkway over part of the Middle Beach – Valley of the Shadows - Clear Place walking track implemented to offset potential mortalities caused by the project. • Artificial burrows provided for the Flesh-footed Shearwater in suitable habitat areas away from the turbine site as a biodiversity offset. The size of the biodiversity offset and the number of artificial burrows required would need to be

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase calculated by an accredited biodiversity offset specialist in consultation with an expert in seabird ecology. The nests would need to be monitored regularly throughout the breeding season for at least three years, and assessed against turbine mortalities and breeding success in the existing colony adjacent to the turbine site, to determine the effectiveness of compensation. • Turbine operation curtailed each night of the Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding season (15 September to 15 May), from 30 minutes before dusk until at least 60 minutes after dawn. 2.17 Depending on the circumstances of the bladestrikes, additional mitigation actions may include extending or altering the Board Operation timing of the turbine shutdown, shutting down during certain conditions (wind speed, wind direction, low visibility) or investigating technical options such as ornithological radar. 2.18 The AMP and effectiveness of measures for avoiding, reducing and offsetting bird fatalities from turbine collisions should be Board Operation reviewed and, if necessary revised, at least annually, or more frequently in circumstances of high bird mortality. 2.19 The impact of the operating turbines on Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding success and range of the colony should be Board Pre-construction monitored for three years after the commissioning of the turbines, then twice more at three year intervals. After this period, Operation the monitoring program should be reviewed. Monitoring should be undertaken in the sub-colony close to and distant from the turbines, in other sub-colonies on the island, and in the Middle Beach - Valley of the Shadows - The Clear Place habitat regeneration area (if applicable). 2.20 Commencing during installation, the subject site and adjacent areas should be inspected daily for dead bird and bat Board Operation carcasses throughout the first breeding season post-construction. Any birds or bats found dead must be sent for autopsy as soon as possible, and injured animals should be handled humanely. Any deaths or injuries should be recorded. The duration and frequency of these inspections over subsequent breeding seasons should be determined as part of the AMP, considering data from the first season. Grass around the turbines should be kept short (<10cm) using grazing. Microbat echolocation call monitoring should also be undertaken for the first year following commissioning. 2.21 The nocturnal behaviour and movements of Flesh-footed Shearwaters in the air space above and adjacent to the site should Board Operation be monitored monthly, sampling over at least three successive nights each month of the breeding cycle (October-April) to determine if there are any collisions with the turbines or guy cables. 2.22 The Adaptive Management Plan, the results of monitoring and the implementation of any additional mitigation measures Board Operation under the plan should be published on the LHIB website. The results of collision and nest site monitoring should be made available at least annually to the Office of Environment and Heritage.

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase 2.23 Measures for reducing or avoiding bird fatalities from turbine collisions should be reviewed and, if necessary revised at least Board Operation annually, or more frequently in the unlikely circumstances of high bird mortality. 3. Visual and landscape impacts Turbine lighting 3.1 To reduce potential visual impact, night lighting should be limited to the nacelle and designed to restrict the downward spill Board Planning of light. Consistent with Section 10.4 of AC139-18(0) for Obstacle Marking and Lighting of Wind Farms, shielding may be Construction provided to restrict the downward component such that: Operation  no more than 5% of the nominal intensity is emitted at or below 5° below the horizontal  no light is emitted at or below 10° below the horizontal. Turbine design and colour 3.2 The selection of turbine design and colour should consider the following principles: Board Planning • Uniformity in the colour, design, rotational speed, height and rotor diameter Construction • The use of simple muted colours and non-reflective materials to reduce distant visibility and avoid drawing the eye Operation • Blades, nacelle and tower to appear as the same colour • Avoidance of unnecessary lighting, signage, logos etc. Associated infrastructure 3.3 The following principles should be applied to reduce the visual impact of associated infrastructure: Board Planning • Consideration should be given to controlling the type and colour of building materials used especially with the use of Construction light, highly reflective cladding and brick and tile materials which contrast dramatically with the landscape character Operation • Boundary landscaping to assist in screening ancillary structures would significantly reduce the potential visual impact • Avoidance of unnecessary lighting, signage on fences, logos etc • Any proposed buildings to be sympathetic to existing architectural elements in the landscape • Minimise cut and fill and loss of existing vegetation throughout the construction process • Limit above ground infrastructure apart from the turbine itself and the transformer at the base of the turbine. Landscaping and screen planting

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase 3.4 Screen planting is an option which can assist in mitigating views of turbines from residential properties. General guidelines Board Planning to adhere to when planning for landscaping and visual screening include: Construction • Planting layout should avoid screening views of the broader landscape Operation • Planting should remain in keeping with existing landscape character • Species selection is to be native and typical of the area • Where appropriate reinstate any lost vegetation • Allow natural vegetation to regrow over any areas of disturbance. 4. Noise and vibration impacts Construction noise and vibration 4.1 A Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) will be prepared for the project, containing work protocols, noise Contractor Construction mitigation measures, contingency measures and a complaints response process. 4.2 Construction works would occur seven days a week (7am to 6pm) to minimise potential noise impacts while enabling the Contractor Construction efficient use of specialist contractors visiting the island. No work would be carried out on Public Holidays or at night. 4.3 Where practical, the noisiest works should be undertaken during the recommended standard hours. Contractor Construction 4.4 Potentially noise affected neighbours should be contacted at the earliest possible time before the works, providing Board Pre-construction information on the nature of the construction stages and the duration of noisier activities, noise controls and complaints Construction processes. 4.5 All plant should be operated in a quiet and efficient manner. Unused plant should be turned off. Contractor Construction 4.6 Equipment and plant would be maintained according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Any equipment that becomes Contractor Construction noisy should be repaired or replaced. 4.7 A documented complaints process would be implemented, including an escalation procedure so that if a complainant is not Board Construction satisfied there is a clear path to follow. Complaints should be handled in a prompt and responsive manner. 4.8 A complaints register should be maintained and a copy kept on site. Staff who receive telephone complaints should be kept Board Construction informed about current and upcoming works and the relevant contacts for these works. 4.9 Where there are complaints about noise from an identified work activity, the activity should be reviewed to identify any Board Construction feasible additional actions which can be taken to minimise noise output or impacts. 4.10 Noise minimisation will also be undertaken with regard to AS 2436-2010 Guide to Noise and Vibration Control on Contractor Construction Construction, Demolition and Maintenance Sites which contains practical recommendations to assist in mitigating construction noise emissions.

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase 4.11 The ANZECC (1990) guidelines for control of blasting impact at residences would be followed if blasting is required and there Contractor Construction is the potential for neighbouring residences to be affected by ground vibration and overpressure. 4.12 All sensitive receivers should be informed when blasting is to be undertaken. Less than 0.1kg of blast mass should be used Contractor Construction within 50 metres of the Flesh-footed Shearwater breeding colony or other sensitive receivers (GHD 2014). Turbine operation noise 4.13 As detailed in the noise assessment (Hutchison Weller 2016a), contingency measures should be implemented if the Board Operation operating turbines are found to exceed the predicted noise levels. The measures should be included in the Adaptive Management Plan for the project. Noise management options include: • identify the conditions and times that lead to undue impacts. • turn off one or both turbines that are identified as causing undue impacts during specific conditions (wind directions and strengths), a mitigation process called sector management. • consult with the manufacturer to identify noise control options of the turbines such as: - variable speed; - changes to the pitch regulation regime; - vortex generators and/or - trailing edge serrations • negotiate with affected property owners. 4.14 Upon commissioning, operational noise monitoring should be completed to confirm actual turbine noise emission levels and Board Operation compliance with the assessment criteria. The presence of tonality or low frequency noise in emissions should also be tested to confirm assumptions made in the noise assessment. 5. Cultural heritage 5.1 If any heritage site or object is discovered during the works, works should cease and the Board and the Heritage Division, Contractor Construction Office of Environment and Heritage (02 9873 8500) should be notified in accordance with the Heritage Act so that the item Board can be assessed and protected as required. Works would not recommence until relevant approvals and an appropriate management strategy have been obtained. 5.2 An adaptive approach should be applied to account for any unforeseen visual or acoustic impacts to the aesthetic values of Board Operation heritage items. Mitigation measures identified in this report for the amelioration of visual and noise impacts should also be applied to the protection of heritage values, as required. 6. Social and economic impacts

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase Community impacts 6.1 Regular, timely and independent information should be disseminated to the community via the Community Engagement Board Pre-construction Plan, particularly addressing: Construction • visual, noise and wildlife impacts Operation • the assessment and approval process • opportunities for consultation and participation in the process • the project strategic context, feasibility, need and justification and benefits. Shadow flicker 6.2 The following mitigation measures that could be implemented if shadow flicker is found to be a problem once the wind farm Board Operation is operational: • if shadow flicker is found to be a nuisance at a particular residence at a known location a physical screen can be placed between the location and the wind turbines. Additional trees or other vegetation can be used to accomplish this. • appropriate mitigation measures will be negotiated and implemented, where necessary, including potential limiting hours of operation on selected turbines or pre-programming the control system of individual wind turbines to automatically shut down while these conditions are present • shadow flicker effects on motorists can be monitored following commissioning and any remedial measures to address concerns would be developed in consultation with the Lord Howe Island Board. Economic impacts - tourism 6.3 An explanation of the need for the HREP should be included in tourism communications in the context of the island’s ‘green’ Board Operation and sustainable World Heritage marketing image. 7. Air safety impacts 7.1 The Board should consider feedback from AsA on the Communications Navigation Surveillance Impact Analysis (IDS 2016) in Board Planning and relation to impacts to NDB, DME and ADS-B systems and mitigation of the navigation aid and ADS-B clearance plane assessment penetrations in particular.

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase 7.2 The Board should make contact with all relevant aviation stakeholders prior to the construction of the wind farm, Board Planning and documenting consultations and the outcomes in relation to the proposed wind farm. assessment Pre-construction 7.3 The Board should engage with its legal and insurance advisors in considering its own corporate qualitative risk assessment Board Planning and and duty of care responsibilities with regard to the requirements for aviation obstacle lighting. assessment 7.4 Should the wind farm proceed, the Board should notify CASA of any development or construction in the vicinity of the Board Pre-construction aerodrome (within 15km) that is likely to be a hazard to air navigation. 7.5 Should the wind farm proceed, the turbines will exceed 30m above ground level and intrude upon the OLS; therefore the Board Pre-construction Board shall report to CASA and to the RAAF AIS the relevant details about the wind farm in accordance with CASA AC 139- 08(0) and CAAP 89W-2 (Reporting of Tall Structures). 7.6 Subject to approval of the wind turbines, medium intensity obstacle lighting should be installed on the nacelle in such a Board Pre-construction manner as to provide an unobstructed view for aircraft approaching in any direction. Refer to ICAO (Annex 14) and CASA AC Construction 139-18(0) Obstacle Marking and Lighting of Wind Farms. It is anticipated that CASA will be advised of the proposal and, if accepted, the turbines will be marked and lit in accordance with the ICAO Annex 144. 8. Traffic impacts 8.1 The Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) should include details regarding construction traffic routes and Contractor Construction speed limit, road use time restrictions, protocols for oversize loads, large vehicles and road closures and vehicle communications. 8.2 Induction of staff and contractors should cover the construction traffic matters detailed in the CEMP and explain potential Contractor Construction risks to wildlife, cyclists and pedestrians. 8.3 Traffic controls should be used where long or wide loads require the use of both road lanes, having regard to layby parking Contractor Construction and sight lines. 8.4 Where practicable, road closures should avoid key use periods such as work and school start/finish times. Contractor Construction 8.5 Notification and explanation of any traffic disruptions should be made to road users in advance of the works to minimise Board Pre-construction inconvenience. The notification should include a contact person and phone number for concerns regarding the traffic Construction aspects of the project.

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase 8.6 Pedestrian and private vehicle access to the subject site should be controlled using signage (and barriers if required) during Contractor Construction the construction period. 9. Land use impacts 9.1 The affected leaseholder will be consulted and given advance notification of construction activities, including any activities Board Pre-construction which may affect access or use of the subject site. Construction 9.2 The works would be scheduled to minimise any stock exclusion time at the subject site. Contractor Construction 9.3 Pastures and farm infrastructure (including fencing) would be reinstated to prior or better condition as soon as practicable Contractor Construction following the works. Post-construction 9.4 The proponent would control weeds at the subject site for at least one year following the works. Post-construction 10. Air, water and soil impacts Air quality 10.1 Plant should be operated efficiently and turned off when not in use. Equipment and plant should be fitted with appropriate Contractor Construction emission control and maintained according to manufacturer’s recommendations. 10.2 Vehicle loads of material which may create dust would be covered while using the island road system. Contractor Construction Soil protection and water quality 10.3 The Construction Environmental Management Plan should include the following provisions: Contractor Pre-construction  Sediment traps would be installed wherever there is potential for sediment to collect and enter waterways Construction  Stockpiles generated as a result of construction activities would not be located in or near drainage lines and would be bunded with silt fencing to reduce the potential for runoff from these areas  Erosion and sedimentation controls would be in place prior to the commencement of works at the site. 10.4 The area of vegetation and soil disturbed by the works should be minimised. Contractor Construction 10.5 Soils excavated from trenches should be reinstated by restoring the original soil profile to retain the seed bank and maintain Contractor Construction site productivity.

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase 10.6 The Construction Environmental Management Plan should contain a Spill Control Plan which would specify: Contractor Pre-construction  Names and roles of persons that are responsible for implementing the plan if a spill of a dangerous or hazardous Construction chemical/waste should occur  Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all chemical inventories are to be located on site and readily available  Where chemicals are used, their application and disposal would comply with manufacturers recommendations  Any spill that occurs, regardless of size or type of spill, would be reported to the Construction Manager  The event and clean up processes would be recorded. Information that would be recorded includes time and date of spill, type of chemical or waste spilt, approximate volume spilt, general area in which the spill occurred, corrective actions applied, and disposal of spilt material  Spill protocols in the plan would indicate when the EPA would be notified. 10.7 Machinery should be operated and maintained in a manner that minimises risk of hydrocarbon spill. Contractor Construction 10.8 Maintenance or re-fuelling of machinery should be carried out on hard-stand areas (i.e. existing or proposed road surface or Contractor Construction hard-stand areas beneath turbines, not on areas that either contain native vegetation, or would be revegetated). 10.9 Any dangerous goods or hazardous materials stored on-site should be stored in a secure and adequately sized bunded area. Contractor Construction 10.10 Concrete wash should be deposited in a suitable location off-site in an excavated area, below the level of the topsoil. Contractor Construction 10.11 Access routes and parking/laydown areas would be confined to already disturbed areas, where possible. Contractor Construction 10.12 The Construction Environmental Management Plan should contain a Site Restoration Plan which would cover: Contractor Pre-construction  Site preparation Construction  Stabilisation  Re-establishment of pasture cover  Monitoring and maintenance. 10.13 Soil stabilisation and re-establishment of pasture cover should occur progressively and without delay during the Contractor Construction construction period. 10.14 The re-establishment of native vegetation would be guided by the Lord Howe Island Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan 2002- Contractor Construction 2007 (LHIB 2002). Board 11. Waste

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No. Environmental safeguards Responsibility Phase 11.1 Specific arrangements for managing waste should be incorporated into the Construction Environmental Management Plan. Contractor Pre-construction Construction 11.2 Waste would be reused or recycled whenever possible. Separate recyclable materials receptacles would be provided (eg. or Contractor Construction glass, plastics and aluminium). 11.3 Packaging materials and general construction wastes would be disposed of at the LHI Waste Management Facility. Contractor Construction 11.4 Waste being transported from the site would be covered where there is a risk of debris or dust escaping from vehicle loads. Contractor Construction 11.5 Any waste which is collected and stored at the site would be managed to prevent pollution of the environment due to wind Contractor Construction or rainfall runoff. 11.6 Any hazardous wastes would be managed in accordance with the Construction Environmental Management Plan and Contractor Construction relevant regulatory requirements.

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9 ECOLOGICALLY SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Ecologically sustainable development (ESD) involves the effective integration of social, economic and environmental considerations in decision-making processes. In NSW, the concept has been incorporated into legislation including the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and Regulation and the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991. Schedule 3 of the Lord Howe Island LEP requires an Environmental Report to justify the development in terms of the principles of ecologically sustainable development. ESD principles and their relationship to the proposal are identified below. (a) The precautionary principle—namely, that if there are threats of serious or irreversible environmental damage, lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing measures to prevent environmental degradation. In the application of the precautionary principle, public and private decisions should be guided by: (i) careful evaluation to avoid, wherever practicable, serious or irreversible damage to the environment, and (ii) an assessment of the risk-weighted consequences of various options. The impact and significance of the construction of the wind turbines at the subject site are reasonably predictable and carry low levels of uncertainty and risk. Some uncertainty exists regarding the population scale response of seabirds and, to a lesser extent, forest birds, to the operation of the proposed turbines. The personal responses of visitors and residents to noise and visual impacts are subjective and may be diverse. A precautionary approach has been adopted incorporating detailed assessment of risks and potential impacts, impact modelling, monitoring and adaptive management to ensure that any unexpected or unacceptable impacts are met with effective and timely responses. A range of adaptive measures have been identified to respond to unforeseen wildlife, noise and visual impacts in particular, to be implemented through an Adaptive Management Plan (refer section 8.2). The turbine development would have an operational life of around 20 years and would be highly reversible.

(b) inter-generational equity—namely, that the present generation should ensure that the health, diversity and productivity of the environment are maintained or enhanced for the benefit of future generations. The proposal would not diminish long term ecological or agricultural productivity, biological resources or future land use options at the subject site. At the end of the operating life of the wind farm, the infrastructure can be readily removed to completely restore former land uses and agricultural productivity at the site. Decommissioning would also result in the cessation of any changes to amenity caused by noise or visual impacts. The proposal is also considered unlikely to reduce the ecological health and biological diversity of the site and study area (refer below). The project would provide a significant environmental benefit by producing sustainable energy, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels which threatens the well- being of current and future generations through climate change.

(c) conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity— namely, that conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity should be a fundamental consideration. Environmental safeguards contained in this report are intended to avoid any impacts which would damage the long term viability of populations of all native species at and around the subject site, particularly threatened and migratory species. The specialist bird studies and Assessments of Significance have

6625 Final 141 LORD HOWE ISLAND HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT STAGE 2: WIND TURBINES concluded that the project would not be likely to significantly affect local populations of listed threatened and migratory fauna species. Monitoring and adaptive measures and acceptable impact thresholds would be implemented through an Adaptive Management Plan to respond to unexpected or unacceptable impacts.

(d) improved valuation, pricing and incentive mechanisms— namely, that environmental factors should be included in the valuation of assets and services, such as: (i) polluter pays—that is, those who generate pollution and waste should bear the cost of containment, avoidance or abatement, and (ii) the users of goods and services should pay prices based on the full life cycle of costs of providing goods and services, including the use of natural resources and assets and the ultimate disposal of any waste, and (iii) environmental goals, having been established, should be pursued in the most cost effective way, by establishing incentive structures, including market mechanisms, that enable those best placed to maximise benefits or minimise costs to develop their own solutions and responses to environmental problems. The electricity supply on Lord Howe Island is provided by a public authority and subsidised as an essential public good. The project includes considerable public expenditure on environmental assessment and management, including the active protection of threatened and migratory bird species. To date the environmental and social costs of electricity generation on the island have not been incorporated into wholesale or retail pricing. Jacobs (2016c) was engaged to identify the external costs of using diesel fuel for electricity generation on the island; refer section 3.4. The study estimated monetary costs (expressed in cents per litre) for:  CO2, SOx and NOx emissions  the risk of a diesel fuel spill, including spill clean-up costs and the effect of a serious spill on the economy (especially tourism). The study found that the most significant costs relate to greenhouse gas emissions, NOx emissions and the economic impact of a diesel spill arising from the resupply ship running aground on the reef. Based on the analysis, a value of 27.5 cents per litre can be added to the current base price of diesel fuel to reflect these externalities. This information has been used to model the optimal HREP design and evaluate the costs and benefits of the proposal.

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10 CONCLUSIONS

Lord Howe Island has outstanding natural and scenic values and a unique social and cultural setting. The proposed wind turbines would be unlikely to significantly affect biodiversity values, including local bird and bat populations through bladestrike or interference with habitat use, subject to recommended safeguards. Biodiversity impacts would be monitored. Environmental risk and unexpected impacts can be adequately managed using an adaptive approach and a range of identified contingency measures. Some turbine noise may be perceived in settlement areas close to the subject site, although this would largely be masked by the high levels of natural background noise. Turbine noise levels are predicted to be below relevant guidelines at all receiver locations at all times. Turbine noise is considered to be unlikely to significantly affect the amenity or cultural aesthetics of neighbouring areas on the island. When viewed from a distance, the proposed wind turbines would form only a small element in the overall view, which would remain dominated by the natural features which characterise the island. The highest visual impact would be from cleared areas close to the north and east of the turbines, set within a visual context which contains existing human elements. There is little variation in visual impact between the three turbine options. The proposal would not be likely to significantly affect the World Heritage, National Heritage or state and locally significant cultural heritage values of the island. The proposal is consistent with the aims of the Lord Howe Island LEP and the objectives of Zone No. 7 Environment Protection by providing a public utility undertaking with substantial community benefit while ensuring environmental, heritage, social and economic values are protected. The project is highly reversible and would not result in permanent losses or close off any future land use options. The proposal has clear environmental, social and economic benefits and is considered to be ecologically sustainable.

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11 REFERENCES

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Henderson and Horning Pty Ltd (2006) Land Value Impact of Wind Farm Development. Crookwell New South Wales. Prepared for Taurus Energy Pty Ltd, February 2006. Hunt, G. (Minister for the Environment) (2015) Media Release. Appointment of National Wind Farm Commissioner and Independent Scientific Committee on Wind Turbines. 9 October 2015. Viewed 1 May 2016, Hunter, J. (2002) Vegetation and Habitat of Significance within the Settlement Area of Lord Howe Island, NSW. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Coffs Harbour, unpublished report. Hutchison Weller (2015a) Pinetrees Lodge in-room noise measurements. Letter report to Lord Howe Island Board 17 August 2015. Hutchison Weller (2015b) Lord Howe Island Renewable Energy Project. Winter background noise monitoring. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. 15009-RP-NV-1-2. 14 December 2015. Hutchison Weller (2016a) Lord Howe Island Renewable Energy Project. Wind Turbine Generator Noise Impact Statement. Prepared for Lord Howe Island Board. Hutchison Weller (2016b) Coral Bay Wind Turbine Generators. Lord Howe Island Board. Noise Investigation. 15009-RP-NV-3-28. September 2016. ICOMOS (2009) World Heritage Cultural Landscapes. UNESCO-ICOMOS Documentation Centre. February 2009. IDS (2016) C/N/S (Communications Navigation Surveillance) detailed impact analysis of two wind turbines near Lord Howe Island Airport. Technical Report. Rev. 1.0. N°doc.: RT/2016/104. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. Iravani, R., Graovac, M. and Dewan, S. (2004) The Health Effects of Magnetic Fields Generated by Wind Turbine, summary of report, Ontario Canada October 2004 Jacobs (2015a) Hybrid Renewable Energy Project – Geotechnical Investigation Report. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. Jacobs (2015b) Lord Howe Island Hybrid Renewable Energy Project Technical Feasibility Study. Revision 2, December 2015. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. Jacobs (2015c) Lord Howe Island Solar Photovoltaic Project – Environmental Report (incorporating a Statement of Environmental Effects). Revision 2, 23 July 2015. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. Jacobs (2015d) Lord Howe Island Hybrid renewable Energy System Distillate price projection. Ver 1. Prepared for the LHIB. 21 December 2015. Jacobs (2015e) Visitor Survey Outcomes Report. December 2015. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. Jacobs (2016a) Lord Howe Island Hybrid Renewable Energy Project Community Engagement Plan. Final. July 2016. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. Jacobs (2016b) Solar Battery and Control System Tender Information for 4 March Workshop. 2 March 2016. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. Jacobs (2016c) LHI Economic Assessment of Emissions and Spill from Diesel use. Final. April 2016. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. Jacobs (2016d) Lord Howe Island Hybrid Renewable Energy Project Wind Turbine Generator Noise Impact Assessment. Revision 4, 23 April 2015. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. Jerpasen, GB and Larsen, KC (2011 Visual impact of wind farms on cultural heritage: A Norwegian case study. Environmental Impact Assessment Review 31 (2011) 206-215. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/241084448_Visual_impact_of_wind_farms_on_cultural_herita ge_A_Norwegian_case_study Landcom (2004) Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils and Construction, (the ‘Blue Book’) 4th edition

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Landos, J. (2003) Quarantine Strategy for Lord Howe Island. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. May 2003. Quarantine and Inspection Resources Pty Ltd, Griffith ACT 2603. Le Cussan, J. (2006) Eradication of invasive alien plants on Lord Howe Island, NSW using three Asparagus species (Asparagus asparagoides, A. plumosus and A. aethiopicus) as a case study. Plant Protection Quarterly Vol.21(3) 2006 Lord Howe Island Board (LHIB) (2000) Lord Howe Island Group, World Heritage Property and Strategic Plan of Management 2000–2005. Lord Howe Island Board, Lord Howe Island. Lord Howe Island Board (LHIB) (2002) Lord Howe Island Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan 2002-2007. Adopted March 2003. Lord Howe Island Board (LHIB) (2006) Lord Howe Island Weed Management Strategy Lord Howe Island Board (LHIB) (2010) Strategic Plan for the Lord Howe Island Group World Heritage Property. Lord Howe Island Board, Lord Howe Island. Lord Howe Island Board (LHIB) (2012a) Ecological assessment of a proposal to reduce the height of the dune at Blinky Beach Lord Howe Island. September 2012 Lord Howe Island Board (LHIB) (2012b) Planning Assessment Report. DA 2012/03 – Portion 230 & 292, Anderson Road, Lord Howe Island. Lord Howe Island Powerhouse and associated infrastructure. Prepared by Michelle Chapman (Consultant Planner). Lord Howe Island Board (LHIB) (2015) Tender Documents. Lord Howe Island Hybrid Renewable Energy Project – Environmental Assessment for Proposed Wind Turbines. Contract no. 2015/22, November 2015. Lord Howe Island Community Reference Team (LHICRT) (2010) Lord Howe Island Community Strategy 2010 – 2015. ‘Pride in our island, united and confident in our future.’ http://www.lhib.nsw.gov.au/community/community-development, accessed 15 February 2016 Lord Howe Island Museum (LHIM) (undated) Discovery and Early Settlement, , , accessed 15 February 2016 McDougall KL (2005) Appendix 4. The responses of native Australian plant species to Phytophthora cinnamomi. In ‘Management of Phytophthora cinnamomi for biodiversity conservation in Australia: Part 2. National best practice’. (Eds E O’Gara, K Howard, B Wilson, GEStJ Hardy). Department of the Environment and Heritage: Canberra. Moir Landscape Architecture (2016) Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. Proposed Lord Howe Island Wind Farm. Prepared for NGH Environmental. Musescape (2012) The Last Paradise: Community-Based Heritage Study of Lord Howe Island. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) (2015a) NHMRC Statement: Evidence on Wind Farms and Human Health , accessed 15 February 2016 National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) (2015b) Information Paper: Evidence on Wind Farms and Human Health. Canberra: National Health and Medical Research Council; , accessed 15 February 2016 NHMRC 2016 Media Release: NHMRC awards funding into wind farms and human health. 22 March 2016. National Parks and Wildlife Service (NSW) (2001) Lord Howe Placostylus (Placostylus bivaricosus) Recovery Plan. NPWS, Hurstville, NSW. National Wind Coordinating Collaborative (NWCC) (2010) Wind Turbine Interactions with Birds, Bats, and their Habitats: A Summary of Research Results and Priority Questions. Spring 2010. Accessed 3 Feb 2016.

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NGH Environmental (2016) Biodiversity Assessment Lord Howe Island Hybrid Renewable Energy Project. Stage 2: wind turbines. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. NSW Heritage Office (2003) Wind Farms and Heritage. Heritage Council Advice. Prepared by Victoria Coleman for the NSW Heritage Office December 2003. Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) (2011) New South Wales Climate Impact Profile. Technical Report. Potential impacts of climate change on biodiversity. Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) (2014) Wind farms. , accessed 19 February 2016 Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) (2015) Office of Environment and Heritage Adaptive Management Position Statement. http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/research/adaptive-management.htm. 4 May 2015. Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) (2016) Search for heritage items. Statutory Listed Items. , accessed 19 February 2016. O’Neill, L. and Carlile, N. (2015) Report to the Lord Howe Island Board on Avifauna Monitoring for the Lord Howe Island Hybrid Renewable Energy Project. Owens, KA (2008) Farmers, Fishers and Whalemen. The colonisation landscapes of Lord Howe Island, Tasman Sea, Australia. BSocSci, Hons, Australian National University, April 2008. Pearce-Higgins, JW, Leigh Stephen, L, Douse, A and Langston, RHW (2012) Greater impacts of wind farms on bird populations during construction than subsequent operation: results of a multi-site and multi-species analysis. Journal of Applied Ecology. Volume 49, Issue 2, pages 386–394, April 2012. Pickard, J. (1983) Vegetation of Lord Howe Island. Cunninghamia 1, 133-265. Ponder, W F and Chapman, R (1999) Survey of the Land Snail Placostylus bivaricosus on Lord Howe Island. Unpublished report prepared for the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Northern Directorate Threatened Species Unit: Coffs Harbour, NSW. PricewaterhouseCoopers Australia (PwC) (2013a) Financial sustainability review Phase 1. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. 6 September 2013. PricewaterhouseCoopers Australia (PwC) (2013b) Financial sustainability review Phase 2. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board. 1 November 2013. Priddel, D., Carlile, N., Fullagar, P., Hutton, I. & O’Neill, L. (2006) Decline in the distribution and abundance of flesh-footed shearwaters (Puffinus carneipes) on Lord Howe Island, Australia. Biological Conservation 128: 412-424. Reid, T. A. (2010) Modelling the foraging ecology of the flesh-footed shearwater Puffinus carneipes in relation to fisheries and oceanography. PhD Thesis. University of Tasmania Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) (2004) Impact of Wind Farms on the Value of Residential Property and Agricultural Land. 2004 Rodd, AN and Pickard, J (1983) Census of vascular flora of Lord Howe Island. Cunninghamia 1(2) Rodríguez A, Burgan G, Dann P, Jessop R, Negro JJ, Chiaradia A (2014) Fatal Attraction of Short-Tailed Shearwaters to Artificial Lights. PLoS ONE 9(10): e110114. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0110114 RPS (2015) DA 2016-02– Portion 230 and 101 Anderson Road, Lord Howe Island. Summary Assessment Report. Prepared for the Lord Howe Island Board by Mia Fay, Consultant Planner. Salamolard, M., Ghestemme, T. and Couzi, F. (2007) Impacts of urban lighting on Barau’s Petrels, Pterodroma baraui on La Reunion Island and measures for reducing the impacts. Ostrich - Journal of African Ornithology 78: 449–452

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Schleisner L. (2000) Life cycle assessment of a wind farm and related externalities, Renewable Energy, vol. 20, pp. 279-288. Senate Select Committee on Wind Turbines (SSCWT) Final Report (2015). Senate Printing Unit, Parliament House, Canberra. Sims, S, Dent, P and Oskrochi, R (2008) Modelling the impact of wind farms on house prices in the UK. International Journal of Strategic Property Management, 12:4, 251-269. Smallwood, K.S. & Thelander, C. (2008) Bird mortality in the Altamont pass wind resource area, California. Journal of Wildlife Management, 72, 215–223. Smith, T. and Eyre, B. (1996) Nutrient Hydrogeochemistry of Lord Howe Island. Hydrology and Water Resources Symposium 1996: Water and the Environment; Preprints of Papers. http://search.informit.com.au/documentSummary;dn=362317533328864;res=IELENG, accessed 17 February 2016. Sonus (2010) Infrasound Measurements from Wind Farms and Other Sources. Prepared for Pacific Hydro Pty Ltd. November 2010 Sterzinger, G. Beck, F. and Kostiuk, D. (2003) The Effect of Wind Development on Local Property Values. Renewable Energy Policy Project, Washington, D.C., May 2003. The Airport Group (2015) Aviation Impact Statement, Lord Howe Island Airport, Wind Turbine Generators. Prepared for LHIB, August 2015. Thelander, C.G. Smallwood, K.S. and Rugge L. (2003) ‘Bird Risk Behaviors and Fatalities at the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area Period of Performance: March 1998 – December 2000’. BioResource Consultants Ojai, California December 2003. Tourism Research Australia (TRA) (2008) Lord Howe Island Visitor Profile and Satisfaction Report Thompson, D., Bliss, P., and Priest, J. (1987) Lord Howe Island Geology 1:15,000 Geology Sheet, Geological Survey of New South Wales, Sydney UNESCO (2008) Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, January 2008 URS 2004, Crookwell II Wind Farm – Environmental Impact Statement, prepared for the Wind Farm Joint Venture (WFJV). Vergnet Wind Turbines (2015) GEV MP C Technical description http://www.vergnet.com/en/gev-mpc.php, accessed 5 January 2015 Warren, C.R., Lumsden, C., O’Dowd, S. and Birnie, R.V. (2005) Green on Green: Public Perceptions of Wind Power in Scotland and Ireland, Journal of Environmental Planning and Management, vol 48, No. 6, 873- 875. Wilkinson, I.S. and Priddel, D. (2011) Rodent eradication on Lord Howe Island: challenges posed by people, livestock and threatened endemics. In: Veitch, C.R., Clout, M.N. and Towns, D.R. (eds.). Island invasives: eradication and management. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland. Woehler, E and Lee Belbin, L (undated) Wind, wind-farms, birds and bats. Insights and predictions from the Atlas of Living Australia. http://www.ala.org.au/faq/spatial-portal/spatial-portal-case-studies/wind-windfarms-birds-and-bats/. Accessed 3 Feb 2016. Woolcock Institute (2016) Media Release: Study to Reveal Truth Behind Wind Farm Sickness World Health Organisation (WHO) (1999) Guidelines for Community Noise http://www.who.int/docstore/peh/noise/guidelines2.html, accessed 15 February 2016.

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12 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

AsA Airservices Australia ASL Above sea level BA Biodiversity Assessment BOM Australian Bureau of Meteorology Cwth Commonwealth DPI (NSW) Department of Planning and Infrastructure EEC Endangered Ecological Community EIA Environmental impact assessment EPBC Act Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cwth) EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW) ESD Ecologically Sustainable Development FM Act Fisheries Management Act 1994 (NSW) ha hectares ISEPP State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (NSW) km kilometres LEP Local Environment Plan LHI Lord Howe Island LHIB Lord Howe Island Board LHIG Lord Howe Island Group m Metres MNES Matters of National Environmental Significance under the EPBC Act (c.f.) NPW Act National Parks And Wildlife Act 1974 (NSW) NSW New South Wales NV Act Native Vegetation Act 2003 (NSW) OEH (NSW) Office of Environment and Heritage SEPP State Environmental Planning Policy (NSW) SIS Species Impact Statement sp/spp Species/multiple species TSC Act Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (NSW)

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APPENDIX A BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT