Dundonnell Wind Farm Information Booklet April 2014 Introduction
Trustpower is committed to active On 26 March 2014 Trustpower held a Community Information Day at the Dundonnell Community Hall, community and stakeholder Dundonnell. The information day provided interested engagement to help shape the members of the community and key stakeholders with final feasibility and design of the an opportunity to drop in and speak face to face with a member of the project team and ask any questions or proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm. raise any queries on the project. This engagement process is outside of and will precede To inform attendees on the outcomes of the preliminary investigations a series of posters were developed the official public exhibition and displayed. This booklet provides a copy of all the process to be undertaken by the posters presented at the information day.
Environmental Effects Statement All the issues and queries raised during the (EES) exhibition and by the Moyne information day will be addressed in our investigations Shire Council, once the planning and responded to during the finalisation of our technical studies and the final proposed layout. Once the studies application is lodged. have been finalised, we will notify the community and stakeholders and all information will be displayed in a public exhibition.
The project team can be contacted on 1800 122 823 or [email protected] and further information is available on www.dundonnellwindfarm.com.au DONN N E U L
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Site location Located at Dundonnell, near the stony rise country, about 23 kilometres north-east of Mortlake Within the Moyne Shire Site is about 4200 hectares Good wind energy potential Close to the existing Mortlake Gas Power Substation (MOPS)
Supporting infrastructure Temporary construction compounds One main construction compound and laydown area (roughly 200m x 200m) Potential for further smaller satellite compounds (roughly 150m x 150m) One permanent substation and operations compound (roughly 150m x 200m) Onsite temporary concrete batching plant (about 100m x 100m) Onsite quarry facilities (potential for two extraction pits on site) Up to four permanent meteorological masts (up to 100m high) 38km overhead transmission on poles to MOPS (planning up Turbine layout to 220kV) Underground 33kV reticulation cables between turbines Up to 104 turbines on wind farm site Blade tip height up to 165m Major site access track from Woorndoo – Streatham Rd; Installed capacity of about 312 MWs vehicle access tracks generally between 6m and 10m wide Turbine hardstand areas for each turbine: Improvements to public roads Hardstand platform & foundation (about 50m x 30m) Potential for temporary laydown areas (about 20m x 20m) DONN N E U L
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Local and regional benefits Job creation: Approximately 200 direct jobs during the two to three year construction period; Approximately seven to ten ongoing permanent jobs during the 25 year operation; Also creates regional and national jobs and contributes to gross state and national product. Creates new streams of income for farmers and other local businesses. Provides a drought-proofing and post-retirement income stream for farmers. Improves biodiversity through less intensive farming activities. Improves erosion control. Improves access roads on wind farm site. Creates additional fire breaks and improves access for fire fighting. Reduces greenhouse gas emissions through clean, renewable energy production. Brings new economic development to the local community.
All of Trustpower’s projects have resulted in substantial local employment and we will continue to recommend maximising local employment in our construction contracts. The majority of local employment is during construction, but the operations phase also provides opportunities for local employment / businesses. Typical goods and services likely to be sourced locally include accommodation, engineering, freight services, construction materials and equipment, local labour, technical contractors, earth works services, fencing and landscaping. Trustpower is also committed to providing financial support for local community services through a community benefit program.
Clean energy The proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm will: Contribute towards the Commonwealth Government’s 20% renewable energy target by 2020. Produce about 1000 GWh of clean energy each year (enough to power roughly 150,000 homes). Save roughly 770,000 tonnes of annual carbon emissions. DONN N E U L
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Brief background on Trustpower1 Trustpower Australia Holdings Pty Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of Trustpower Limited, a publicly owned company operating in Australia and New Zealand. We own and operate primarily renewable energy assets, including 36 hydro stations, four wind farms in New Zealand and two wind farms in South Australia, including the Snowtown Wind Farm Stage 2 currently under construction. Snowtown Wind Farm Stage 1 (48 turbines) has been operating since 2008 with Stage 2 consisting of a further 90 turbines. We develop wind farms with the ultimate goal of owning and operating them for the life of the projects. Trustpower began investigating wind farm sites in Australia in 2001. Initial efforts focused on the South Australia region, due to its strong wind resource and proximity to transmission and load centres. Trustpower is also investigating wind generation opportunities in four other Australian states. Trustpower will be the owner and operator of the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm. The Snowtown story The Snowtown Wind Farm project received planning approval in January 2004 for the construction and operation of up to 130 turbines placed on land within the Hummocks and Barunga Ranges, northwest of Lochiel in the Wakefield Regional Council area, 140 kilometres north of Adelaide in South Australia. The site stretches across nearly 30 km of ridgeline, covering almost 12,000 ha of land. Despite this, less than 1% of the total area is impacted by the project. In April 2007, Trustpower commenced construction of Stage I of the Wind Farm, comprising 47 Suzlon S88 2.1 MW wind turbines. The first phase will have an installed capacity of 98.7 MW, producing enough power for nearly 70,000 average South Australian households. The wind farm produced its first power at Christmas 2008 - three months ahead of schedule - and was fully operational one week early in November 2008. Each of the 47 Stage I turbines has a rotor diameter of 88 metres and sits on an 80 metre cylindrical steel tower. The Suzlon S88 is a variable slip turbine with an electrical pitch system that can individually feather each blade, operating with a rotational speed between 15 and 17.6 rpm. The Snowtown site has an excellent wind resource and is in close proximity to the transmission network. Stage I has achieved an annual average capacity factor of approximately 42%, ranking it among the best performing sites in Australia. The Trustpower Snowtown Wind Farm was formally opened in November 2008. The Snowtown site highlights the benefits of a well-sited wind farm project in Australia, resulting in minimal effects upon the amenity and/or character of the locality. During preparation of the Environmental Statement, Trustpower thoroughly reviewed the impact of the wind farm with respect to such issues as existing land use, ecology, cultural heritage, visual impact, noise, air quality, electromagnetic signals, road, traffic and socio-economic issues. The project was approved by the Wakefield Regional Council in January 2004 and no appeals were lodged with respect to the decision. The project will make a significant contribution to national renewable energy targets, while offsetting nearly 345,000 tonnes of CO2 per annum (Stage I). Trustpower provides a community contribution for the life of the project, known as the Trustpower Lend a Hand Foundation at Snowtown. Trustpower is committed to annual funding of community programs.
1. http://www.trustpower.co.nz/getting-to-know-us DONN N E U L
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and consultation
Finalisation of EES Scoping Requirements – Third edition of newsletter September 2013. distributed – December 2013.
Continued detailed investigations, studies Requests by State and Commonwealth Departments and surveys, including regular meetings for an Environmental Effects Statement (EES) and with a Technical Reference Group, which Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation 9 10 reviews assessments undertaken. (EPBC) Act assessment – January 2013. 8 11 Second edition of newsletter Community Consultation Day distributed – December 2012. consu 7 ing lta - March 2014. go tio 12 n n Concurrent lodgement of EES and Referral to Department of o Environment (DoE- Commonwealth; EPBC assessment with DTPLI formerly DSEWPaC) and under the bi-lateral agreement, Department of Transport, 6 Planning Applications with Planning and Local Infrastructure 13 Moyne Shire Council and other (DTPLI – State; formerly DPCD) related approvals (e.g. Cultural - September 2012. Heritage Management Plan and
quarry work plan) – planned for Q2-2014. First Dundonnell Wind 5 Farm public meeting - Current 14 October 2011. Consideration of EES
by DTPLI/DoE and
process consideration of EES and
Establishment of website, Planning Application by
dedicated free call 1800 phase Moyne Shire Council.
4
number and information
newsletter distribution - 15
Public exhibition of the
September 2011.
EES and Planning
Permit Application.
Commence planning and 3 environmental studies 16 Receipt of written submissions. and surveys; including preparation of a consultation strategy. 17 Preliminary consultations with 2 Appointment of an inquiry to consider landholders, Moyne Shire Council submissions and evaluate the and other relevant authorities. environmental effects of the project. 18 1 Assessment by the Preliminary investigations Minister of Planning of EES. by project team. 19 Determination of Planning Permit Application and other approvals.
For more information Please visit the project website www.dundonnellwindfarm.com.au or contact the project team on 1800 122 823 or email dundonnell@ trustpower.com.au Postal address | 52 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 DONN N E U L
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Aviation impacts Wind turbines don’t impact on passenger jet aircraft and have very little impact on light and sport aircraft. All aircraft operations are covered by strict regulations, including minimum flight altitudes and visibility requirements. Trustpower commissioned Aviation Projects to assess any potential impact the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm may have on aviation activity in the region.
The aviation study incorporated the following assessments and statements: Qualitative risk assessment of the requirement for obstacle lighting; Aviation Impact Statement; and Aeronautical Impact Assessment.
Organisations consulted included: Airservices Australia (AsA); Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA); Department of Defence (DoD); and Representatives of aerodrome operators, airport managers and air service operators at Ararat, Ballarat, Cobden and Warrnambool aerodromes, as well as Western Aerial. The proposed development does not impose any significant risk to normal flying operations provided aircraft are operated in compliance with applicable regulatory and operational control requirements and with the application of good airmanship.
The Aeronautical Qualitative Risk Assessment A Qualitative Risk Assessment was conducted to assess the level of risk the Impact Assessment proposed wind farm may present to aviation operations in the area and whether any The Aeronautical Impact Assessment examined the possible impacts of the mitigation, such as aviation obstacle lighting, would be required. proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm on: The Qualitative Risk Assessment found that the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm The operational airspace of nearby airports (obstacle limitation and PANS-OPS will not require obstacle lighting to maintain an acceptable level of aviation safety. surfaces); Aircraft operating heights; Defined air traffic routes; Radar interference; Low level aerial operations Other surveillance systems; Authorised low level flying operations are carefully planned and take into account Communications systems; hazards such as trees, power lines, buildings, wind turbines, terrain, weather and Navigation aids; turbulence as part of the pre-flight process. Aerial application of agricultural fertilisers and pesticides; In the event of a local bush fire, Trustpower will shut down the proposed wind farm to minimise impact on firefighting activities. In addition, the internal access roads Electric and magnetic fields; and constructed for the project improve ground access for firefighting. Bushfires. The Aeronautical Impact Assessment found the proposed wind farm will not significantly impact upon the elements considered. Meteorological monitoring masts Meteorological monitoring masts are installed to measure wind speed, direction and performance before and after construction of the wind farm. Up to four permanent met masts are envisaged on the site. The masts will have aviation markings. The location and height of the meteorological monitoring masts at the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm site will be notified to the aviation industry through the RAAF Aeronautical Information Service. DONN N E U L
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Construction The development will follow the measures and guidelines included within an approved comprehensive Environmental Management Plan (EMP). The EMP will ensure that the environmental impacts associated with the construction phase of the wind farm are managed in accordance with statutory obligations and approval conditions. The EMP will cover the environmental aspects of the construction operations and highlight the impacts that need to be minimised during the project. It will provide construction personnel with a clear, concise and practical management plan. Sub-plans will show how control measures will be implemented and inspected during the project. Typical areas to be managed through this process include: Sediment, erosion and water quality control; Hazardous material; Wildfire response; Blasting management (if required); Vegetation; Biosecurity; Air quality and dust; Cultural heritage; Waste management; Traffic and access; Flora and fauna. DONN N E U L
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Flora and fauna surveys Comprehensive flora and fauna assessments for the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm and surrounding areas have been undertaken between 2009 and 2014 by Brett Lane & Associates. The project has been declared a controlled action under the EPBC Act and requirements will be addressed as part of the bilateral agreement together with the EES. Key elements of the ecological assessment work included: Flora and vegetation assessment; Fauna overview assessment; Targeted fauna surveys for Growling Targeted surveys for threatened flora Grass Frog, Striped Legless Lizard and species; Fat-Tailed Dunnart; Migratory bird surveys; Bat surveys; and Brolga surveys. Based on the results of these surveys, the location of the turbines and associated infrastructure has been chosen to avoid most of the native vegetation and fauna habitat on site. Where complete avoidance is not likely, further mitigations will be developed so any impacts are deemed acceptable when considered against the overall benefits of the project. Brolga assessment Flora assessment A comprehensive Brolga assessment was undertaken over five years between The vegetation and flora assessment involved vegetation characterisation and 2009 and 2014 and surveys are still ongoing. The surveys included desktop mapping to identify ecological constraints from existing data and field assessments assessments, wetland quality assessments, on-ground and aerial breeding of indigenous vegetation in the proposed wind farm site and along the primary site surveys as well as flocking surveys at the wind farm site and within a 10 kilometre access track, which connects the project to the public road network. Existing data radius around the wind farm site, together with the transmission line corridor. included EPBC Protected Matters and the online Native Vegetation Information This Brolga assessment was done in accordance with the three-step approach Management System (NVIM). prescribed in the Brolga guidelines. Targeted threatened flora surveys have been undertaken in 2013 during the A review of available databases indicated traditional flocking and breeding sites flowering times of threatened species that had potential to occur in areas of were located within a 10 kilometre radius of the proposed wind farm site. There native vegetation, potentially affected by turbines, access tracks and associated were also historical one-off flocking events. Flocks in these areas, specifically infrastructure. northwest and southeast of the wind farm site, have been observed in detail. Areas Two critically endangered (EPBC Act) ecological communities occur in the where flocking Brolgas were foraging, regular flight paths used by flocks and arable wind farm site: land with previous Brolga sightings were buffered. Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands (Freshwater) of the Temperate Lowland Plains; A collision risk model considered the residual risk to Brolgas and estimated that less than one bird per year could be affected by the proposed wind farm Natural Temperate Grassland of the Victorian Volcanic Plain. and powerline. Measures to protect or improve breeding sites are planned to One threatened (FFG Act) ecological community was identified: be implemented. Western (Basalt) Plains Grassland Community (WPGC). Habitat for seven EPBC Act and/or FFG Act listed flora species was present within the proposed wind farm site: Adamson’s Blown-grass, Basalt Rustyhood, Clumping Bat assessment Golden Moth, Dense Greenhood, Leprechaun Greenhood, Purple Blown-grass and Four bat survey programs were conducted between 2009 and 2013 surveying 29 Spiny Rice-flower. sites across the proposed wind farm site. Twelve species of bats were recorded: No EPBC or FFG Act listed flora species were found during targeted flora surveys 10 common, secure and widespread species and two threatened bat species in areas of native vegetation potentially to be impacted by the wind farm and (Southern Bent-wing Bat and Yellow-bellied Sheathtail Bat). The vast majority of bat associated site access track. activity was attributable to the common species. The EPBC Act listed Southern Bent-wing Bat and the FFG Act listed Yellow- bellied Sheathtail Bat were recorded in very low numbers and the construction Fauna assessment and operation of a proposed wind farm at Dundonnell is highly unlikely to have a significant impact on the population of these species. The Yellow-bellied Sheathtail The fauna assessment was undertaken in two phases. First, an overview field Bat is a rare vagrant to Victoria during late summer and autumn with its main survey was undertaken in 2009. This assessed the likelihood of listed threatened population occurring in tropical and sub-tropical northern parts of Australia. The fauna species being present on the site to direct targeted surveys. Second, two threatened species recorded at the wind farm site were found to fly close to the targeted surveys were undertaken between 2010 and 2013 of species for which ground and have not been recorded above 20–30 metres. potentially suitable habitat was likely to be affected by the proposed development. The surveys were to ascertain to what extent, if any, the proposed wind farm would impact these species including Striped Legless Lizard, Fat-tailed Dunnart, Growling Grass Frog, migratory birds, Brolga, other birds and bats. The majority of the proposed wind farm site comprises agricultural land, which is Migratory bird surveys of low quality for fauna due to its extensive modification and the removal of most Four seasonal migratory bird surveys were undertaken between 2011 and 2013. habitat elements. Most of the turbines will be located on elevated ground, away Over the four surveys, nine listed migratory species have been recorded within from low lying wetlands and creek lines. the radius of investigation, including the proposed wind farm site: Common Greenshank, Common Sandpiper, Double-banded Plover, Eastern Great Egret, Glossy Ibis, Latham’s Snipe, Red-necked Stint, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper and Other fauna Wood Sandpiper. Three bird species listed under the EPBC Act No Growling Grass Frog and Striped Legless Lizards have been recorded during the Migratory Species list were recorded at the wind targeted surveys. Suitable habitat for the Golden Sun Moth occurs in one paddock farm site: Latham’s Snipe, Common Greenshank at the proposed wind farm site. Potentially suitable habitat was detected for the and White-bellied Sea-Eagle (flying over the site). Corangamite Water Skink and Growling Grass Frog. These habitats are not to be Habitats where most migratory bird species are impacted by the wind farm construction and operation. found to occur are situated away from areas No EPBC Act listed fauna species were recorded, other than the Southern Bent-wing where turbines and associated infrastructure Bat and migratory birds. Five FFG Act listed fauna species were detected within the are proposed to be located, generally on large proposed wind farm site during surveys: Baillon’s Crake, Brolga, White-bellied Sea- open saline wetlands several kilometres to the Eagle (flying over the site), Yellow-bellied Sheathtail Bat and Southern Bent-wing Bat. northeast of the proposed wind farm. Therefore, One fauna species from the DEPI Threatened Species Advisory List was recorded they will not to be impacted by the proposed wind at the proposed wind farm site in very low numbers (one individual during each of farm construction and operation and it is unlikely the two tile grid surveys), the Fat-tailed Dunnart. that individuals of these species will be disturbed. DONN N E U L
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Low risk of fire The risk of fire at wind farms is very low for the following reasons: Flammable elements are located high above the ground; There is little vegetation around the base of a turbine tower; Lightning protection devices are installed on every wind turbine, also reducing ground strikes; Automatic systems shut turbines down if temperatures indicate a fire risk; and Installation of wind farm access tracks provide ability to efficiently combat fires. No special hazards Wind farms are not considered to pose any special hazards when it comes to fighting fires from the air. The locations of the wind turbines are to be provided to the CFA and are then to be viewed as another structure in the aerial environment (like powerlines, radio masts and other objects). In the event of a local wild fire at the proposed wind farm, Trustpower will shut down the wind farm to minimise impact on firefighting activities and safeguard the equipment. Aerial water bombing is used as needed depending on the type of fire, how fast it is spreading etc. Pilots operating water bombing aircraft for the CFA are trained and aware of structures in the aerial environment and would be alerted to the wind farm prior to their deployment to the area.
Assisting fire fighters The roads constructed as part of the wind farm infrastructure can assist firefighters by: Providing access to often previously inaccessible areas; Serving as a control line; Creating natural fire breaks; and Providing staging areas for firefighting in their cleared areas. A recent example occurred in Snowtown, South Australia in 2013. The CFS was able to use new and old wind farm access tracks to control a number of recent lightning-induced bushfires. The local wind farm made it easier and safer to defend farms from the new lines of access. Previously the fire would have had to have been fought from council and public roads. Having people in elevated positions with good visibility of the countryside provided a vantage point to support the early detection and reporting of the fire. DONN N E U L
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Geoheritage assessment Environmental GeoSurveys P/L was engaged by Trustpower to describe the geological and landform features of the proposed wind farm and transmission line site and assess their geoscience heritage. Geoscience sites are highly varied and range from small or localised outcrops of representative, unusual or rare types of rocks, minerals and fossils, to larger areas that show the relationship between geology and landforms and evidence of past geological processes. Geoscience sites are significant for teaching and research and may be suitable for public display and interpretation. The Geological Society of Australia has established - and continually updates - an inventory of such sites in each state. Although Victoria does not have legislation that protects geoscience features equivalent to that protecting cultural and flora and fauna sites, Trustpower recognised a scientific and community obligation to make a detailed inventory of such features on their proposed wind farm site.
Methodology The geoscience consultant initially made a thorough desktop study of published and unpublished information and liaised closely with members of the geoscience community with special knowledge of the area. Prior to field work, study of high resolution vertical aerial photographs, space images and other remotely sensed geoscience data - including magnetic and radiometric images - was undertaken. Ground inspection of the entire area was made with four-wheel drive access and field walking for ground-truthing of sites identified from the remote images. Further inspection and detailed oblique photography was also obtained on two occasions from chartered light aircraft.
Statement of findings The proposed wind farm encloses an area of geologically young volcanic activity, with clearly-defined lava flows and extensive areas of volcanic rock outcrop. It is part of an extensive complex in Western Victoria that displays some outstanding examples of recent volcanic activity. A number of sites of varied size were mapped as including significant geoscience features, such as unusual elevated and linear ridges and several points with strong and sustained groundwater outflow. A Managing the impacts comprehensive report with detailed descriptions, maps and photographs was prepared for Trustpower. Revisions and updates were made to take account of The geoscience consultant has recommended methods to avoid and/or minimise variations in the boundaries of the proposed site. impacts on geoscience features. These ranged from areas where no construction activity should take place to those where siting of turbines, tracks and infrastructure could be adjusted to maintain the integrity of a geoscience feature. Recommendations were also made in relation to vehicle movement and disposal of spoil and excess material to avoid impact on geoscience features. Field inspection was made with Truspower staff to refine siting in some critical areas. Trustpower responded to recommendations by the geoscience consultant with numerous variations in layout and detailed location of turbines and associated infrastructure. It is the opinion of the geoscience consultant that the essential geoscience character of the area will be maintained and impact on the geoscience features of highest significance will be avoided. DONN N E U L
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There is overwhelming scientific evidence and findings that South Australian Environment Protection Authority indicate wind farms do not The South Australian Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has also recently released the results of its noise study on Energy Australia’s Waterloo Wind Farm, cause health issues. looking at claims of non-compliance and health impacts. The study found that the wind farm was operating within its guidelines and that noise nuisance claims were not attributable to the wind farm (as they coincided with periods when the wind farm was not operating). The study concluded “there is no evidence linking the National Health and Medical Research Council noise from the wind farm to adverse impacts on residents” and that the EPA criteria The top Australian authority on health issues, the National Health and Medical for wind farm noise are adequate to ensure wind farms will not cause health issues. Research Council (NHMRC), conducted two reviews into wind farms and potential Trustpower will ensure that the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm will health issues in 2010 and 2013. The 2010 NHMRC report concluded: comply with all legal requirements regulating wind farm noise. “This review of the available evidence, including journal articles, surveys, literature reviews and government reports, supports the statement that: There are no direct pathological effects from wind farms and that any potential impact on humans can be minimised by following existing planning guidelines.” University of Auckland Infrasound Study A study from the University of Auckland published by the American Psychological The 2013 NHMRC report concluded (p14): “There is no consistent Association in March 2013 considered the idea that health complaints from wind evidence that noise from wind turbines – whether estimated in models farms could be caused by an increase in discussion and awareness of health risk, or using distance as a proxy – is associated with self-reported human rather than actual infrasound. The study tested whether exposure to the anti-wind health effects. Isolated associations may be due to confounding, farm health effects campaign could create a ‘symptom expectation’ and then actual bias or chance. There is consistent evidence that noise from wind symptoms in healthy volunteers. turbines – whether estimated in models or using distance as a The study exposed 60 participants to 10 minutes of infrasound and 10 minutes of proxy – is associated with annoyance and reasonable consistency sham infrasound. Prior to exposure, half of the volunteers were given information that indicated wind farms could cause negative health effects and the other half that it is associated with sleep disturbance and poorer sleep quality were given information on the scientific position that wind farm infrasound does not and quality of life. However, it is unclear whether the observed affect human health. 1 associations are due to wind turbine noise or plausible confounders” . Before and during the sound exposure, both groups reported their health symptoms. Results showed that the group that had viewed information on negative health effects and therefore expected to feel ill did experience symptoms of illness, while the other group did not. AMA Position Statement: Wind Farms The study concluded that: and Health 2014 “Healthy volunteers, when given information about the expected “The available Australian and international evidence does not support the view physiological effect of infrasound, reported symptoms that aligned that the infrasound or low frequency sound generated by wind farms, as they are with that information, during exposure to both infrasound and currently regulated in Australia, causes adverse health effects on populations sham infrasound.” residing in their vicinity. The infrasound and low frequency sound generated by modern wind farms in Australia is well below the level where known health effects occur and there is no accepted physiological mechanism where sub-audible infrasound could cause health effects.” University of Sydney Study on Wind Farm Noise Complaints A study from a University of Sydney Professor of Public Health, Simon Chapman, Victorian Department of Health examined all complaints made about wind farm noise or concerns at Australia’s 49 wind farms. The Victorian Department of Health released two booklets on wind farms, sound The study found that despite there being 32,677 people who live within five and health in May 2013, one focusing on technical information about the nature of kilometres of a wind farm, just 120 people – or one in 272 – have ever made a sound and the other containing community information. formal complaint, appeared in a news report or sent a complaining submission The community information booklet concluded that: “The evidence indicates that to government. sound can only affect health at sound levels that are loud enough to be easily The study also found that some complainants took many years to voice their first audible. This means that if you cannot hear a sound, there is no known way that it complaint, when wind farm opponents regularly warn that the ill effects can be can affect health. This is true regardless of the frequency of the sound.” almost instant. A recent final approval by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) This work supported the findings from the University of Auckland study that anxiety for Infigen Energy’s Cherry Tree Wind Farm has reinforced this, after an initial and fear about wind turbines spread by anti-wind farm groups can cause people decision was put on hold pending the outcome of several studies, including health who hear the information to develop symptoms. Discussion within communities impact. The decision explicitly restated advice from the NSW and Victorian Health about the alleged health effects of wind farms may trigger the very symptoms Departments that there is no evidence that inaudible sounds can have direct about which residents are concerned. If this is the case, media coverage of the physiological effects. wind farm debate must be balanced, so that undue emphasis is not placed on purported health risk. NSW Health Department In 2012, the NSW Health Department provided written Other international reviews advice to the NSW Government that stated existing A study published by the Bavarian Environment studies on wind farms and health issues had been Agency in Germany in March 2012, also found examined and no known causal link could be established. that wind turbines do not generate infrasound at a NSW Health officials stated that fears that wind turbines level that would damage human health. This backs make people sick are “not scientifically valid’’ and that the up a long history of previous studies with similar arguments mounted by anti-wind farm campaigners are conclusions, such as that commissioned by the unconvincing. The officials wrote that there was no evidence Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority in for “wind turbine syndrome’’, a collection of ailments including New Zealand in 2004. This found that the levels of sleeplessness, headaches and high blood pressure that some infrasound from wind turbines are inaudible, even people believe are caused by the noise of spinning blades. at close distances to the turbines. Low-frequency or infrasound from current wind turbine types would not cause any concern for people living 1. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/_files_nhmrc/publications/attachments/eh54_systematic_review_of_the_human_health_effects_of_wind_farms_december_2013 close to wind farms, the study concluded. DONN N E U L
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Heritage assessment Archaeology At Tardis Pty Ltd has been engaged by Trustpower to conduct Aboriginal and historic heritage assessments over the proposed wind farm and transmission line sites to ensure Truspower meets its obligations under key Aboriginal and European heritage protection legislation, including the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (VIC) and the Heritage Act 1995 (VIC).
Managing the impacts Wind farm developments provide a unique and rare opportunity to discover and document the rich Aboriginal and historic heritage values in the Western District of Victoria.
Archaeology At Tardis Pty Ltd, in consultation with the relevant Aboriginal groups Methodology (EMAC, KMAC & Martang Pty Ltd) and the Office of Aboriginal Affairs Victoria is Heritage consultants, along with representatives from relevant Aboriginal groups preparing for approved Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Management Plans (CHMPs) including the Kuuyang Maar Aboriginal Corporation (KMAC), Eastern Maar for the proposed development. Sensitive areas will all be avoided from harm by the Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC) and Martang Pty Ltd, have conducted ground development. surface survey and subsurface excavations to determine the extent, nature and significance of Aboriginal cultural heritage values so they can be managed Once approved, these CHMPs will manage known Aboriginal cultural heritage appropriately. values as well as providing contingencies for any Aboriginal cultural heritage that may be unexpectedly discovered during the construction of the proposed wind farm. Historic heritage identified during the assessment will be fully documented and reported to Heritage Victoria. The reports will provide clear advice on the Statement of findings management of and minimisation of harm to known historic heritage. Three previously recorded places and one new Aboriginal cultural heritage place are located within the proposed wind farm development area. Areas of potential sensitivity for Aboriginal cultural heritage were identified within 100 metres of freshwater springs and the boundary of the Mount Fyans lava flow and the Ennerdale plain.
The wind farm is rich in European heritage. There is evidence of the large early estates – which developed from the early squatting runs – as well as subsequent remains of selection, closer and soldier settlement development of the land. The most highly visible historic heritage remains are the dry stone walls running along the road reserves around Dundonnell. DONN N E U L
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Noise assessment The proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm is subject to the requirements of the Victorian Government’s Policy and planning guidelines for development of wind energy facilities in Victoria dated July 2012 (the Victorian Guidelines) which require compliance with New Zealand Standard 6808:2010 Acoustics – Wind farm noise (NZS 6808:2010). A noise assessment has been undertaken by Marshall Day Acoustics Pty Ltd (MDA) in accordance with the NZS 6808:2010 and the Environmental Effects Statement (ESS) scoping requirements. The assessment confirms that the final layout complies with NZS 6808:2010. The steps in the assessment comprised: Identification of all noise sensitive locations to be included as part of the assessment; Background noise monitoring at six dwelling locations in the surrounding community; Establishment of the project noise criteria in accordance with NZS 6808:2010 based on the background noise levels. The base noise level is adjusted according to the dwelling status (whether there is an agreement with the landowner); Prediction of the noise levels using the International Standard ISO 9613-2:1996 noise propagation model. The noise from the wind farm was predicted to all residences located within approximately five kilometres from the wind farm; and Comparison of the predicted noise levels at each residence against the relevant noise criteria to demonstrate compliance with NZS 6808:2010. A noise contour showing predicted noise levels from the wind farm has been prepared. The contour shows the predicted noise levels at any location, the turbine locations, the dwellings within five kilometres in the surrounding community and the locations used for background noise monitoring. Noise from the substation associated with the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm has been assessed in accordance with the EPA Publication 1411 Noise from industry in regional Victoria (NIRV). Predicted noise levels from the proposed substation have been shown to comply with the applicable NIRV noise limit. The Operational Noise Management Plan An Operational Noise Management Plan will be prepared for the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm. The Operational Noise Management Plan will detail the specific compliance checking actions for the wind farm in accordance with the Victorian Guidelines. The Plan will also provide the complaint response actions for the ongoing operation of the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm.
The Construction Noise and Vibration Management Plan The construction of a wind farm comprises activities such as road construction, civil works, excavation and hardstand construction, electrical infrastructure works and turbine erection. These activities are similar to other construction projects in that they generally generate short term and transient noise. In the case of a wind farm, the construction generally occurs at significant separation distances, which will result in appreciable attenuation of the noise and vibration generated by the activity. The management of construction noise requires appropriate programming, community consultation and the use of the best available and practical work practices and mitigation measures balanced against the requirement to expedite completion of the project. A Construction Noise and Vibration Management Plan (CNVMP) will be prepared for the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm which will provide guidance to comply with the requirements of the EPA Publication 1254 Noise Control Guidelines. DONN N E U L
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No link with reduced property values Many robust studies by independent organisations around the world have failed to find any link between wind turbines and declining property values. A report on community acceptance of rural wind farms by the CSIRO’s Science into Society found that rural landowners with wind farms on their properties stood to gain from such benefits1. For properties without wind turbines but in the line of sight of turbines, statistical evidence supports that property values do not perform worse than properties in comparable regions without wind turbines. In many cases, property values have actually gone up faster than values in the comparable regions. A study conducted by the NSW Department of Lands looked at properties located near eight wind farms and found no evidence that wind turbines caused property values to drop. The report found that wind farms “do not appear to have negatively affected property values in most cases”. The report also found that “no reductions in sale price were evident for rural properties or residential properties located in nearby townships with views of the wind farm”2.
Trustpower research In response to concerns raised during public consultation for the Palmer Wind Farm, Trustpower commissioned Maloney Field Services to undertake targeted comparable research in South Australia. The research looked at property sales transactions at three wind farms in South Australia, selected due to their relative similarity to the proposed Palmer Wind Farm, rural life-style allotments and proximity to Adelaide. The assessment looked at sales of comparable properties with views of the wind farms within 10km radius of the wind farms from five years before and five years after the construction. Out of the 23 transactions recorded: Four properties (17%) with views of the wind farm showed below Local Government Area median average; Nineteen properties (83%) showed either no impact or an increase above the median average. This study was a high level review and ignored other external contributing factors. However, it does support the findings in the other more comprehensive studies quoted. There may be isolated instances of property value impacts on rural living properties with close proximity to wind farms, but the evidence shows these are rare and any impacts decrease over time and with distance from the wind farms. International studies Internationally, a decade-long study across nine different states in the US by the Lawrence Berkeley National Research Laboratory found no negative relationship between wind turbines and property values. The study found “neither the view of the wind facilities nor the distance of the home A recent comprehensive study commissioned by the U.S. Department of Energy to those facilities is found to have any consistent, measurable and statistically looked at more than 50,000 home sales across 27 counties (including about 1200 significant effect on home sales prices”3. homes within one mile of a turbine) and accounted for other contributing factors The University of New Hampshire’s research on the Impact of the Lempster Wind like confounding home-value and spatial dependence in the data. Power Project on Local Residential Property Values from January 2012 found no The study found no statistical evidence that home values near turbines were evidence that the project had an impact on property values in the region. The study affected in the post-construction or post-announcement/pre-construction 5 also said “this is consistent with the near unanimous findings of other studies – periods . based their analysis on arms-length property sales transactions – that have found no conclusive evidence of widespread, statistically significant changes in property values resulting from wind power projects”4.
1. CSIRO report http://www.csiro.au/Organisation-Structure/Flagships/Energy-Transformed-Flagship/Exploring-community-acceptance-of-rural-wind-farms-in-Australia.aspx, reported in Wind Energy the Facts, Clean Energy Council, March 2013. 2. NSW Department of Lands report http://www.lpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0018/117621/t0L51WT8.pdf reported in Wind Energy the Facts, Clean Energy Council, March 2013. 3. Lawrence Berkeley study, United States http://eetd.lbl.gov/ea/ems/reports/lbnl-2829e.pdf, reported in Wind Energy the Facts, Clean Energy Council, March 2013. 4. Impact of the Lempster Wind Power Project on Local Residential Property Values, January 2012 http://antrim-wind.com/files/2012/05/14B_lempster_property_value_impacts_final- copy-copy.pdf reported in Wind Energy the Facts, Clean Energy Council, March 2013. 5. A Spatial Hedonic Analysis of the Effects of Wind Energy Facilities on Surrounding Property Values in the United States, August 2013). DONN N E U L
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A D F Quarry site
Quarrying is the temporary use of a finite resource and includes extraction or excavation, storage or stockpiling, possibly some form of processing on site and transportation of materials from the extraction site.
At the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm site it is envisaged that hard rock (basalt) extraction will be from one or two small pits within the work authority area and the basalt will be processed on site. Materials will be used for the access tracks and hardstand areas. Quarry operations are anticipated to be required for less than three years during construction of the wind tower sites and access tracks.
The quarry site is very isolated and the proposed design has a minimum 20m buffer zone to the boundaries and natural screening, which will mitigate direct line of sight and transient noise.
Benefits There are numerous benefits associated with an on-site quarry, one of the most significant being that quarry traffic will largely occur within the wind farm boundary and therefore minimise traffic on council and other public roads.
Major benefits include: Significantly reduced truck movements on local roads, as transportation of materials will be largely within the wind farm site boundary. Flow on commercial and employment opportunities: about eight additional employment positions could be created, including management, supervisory and semi-skilled. The excavation and processing sites will be returned to a landform which supports rural activities.
Managing the impacts Planning of a hard-rock quarry operation typically considers social and environmental factors. Due to the isolated location of the quarry operation, the risk of impacts associated with noise, dust, blasting and visual amenity effects are quite small:
Quarry product traffic will be largely limited to within the wind farm site boundary. The relatively small size of the extraction and processing footprint and conservative design will avoid significant geotechnical risk, vegetation/habitat and heritage issues. The potential for increased weed and vermin infestation is minimal and managed Operation by standard rural practices, e.g. spraying campaigns. During establishment, vehicular movements will be for personnel, plant and Available topsoil will be retained on-site for rehabilitation purposes. machinery, mobile equipment, prefabricated buildings, concrete and consumables such as fuel, lubricants and explosives. Overburden materials can be readily used for progressive backfill and surfaces top dressed with soil and revegetated. The initial construction phase will incorporate earthmoving operations to establish Any remaining disturbance footprint will be simply re-contoured to blend with the access and a processing and stockpile area. Site entrances and paths for main surrounding topography allowing grazing or other agricultural uses. access roads will be constructed and surfaced utilising on-site materials. While the limited nature of the proposed quarry operation is anticipated to be less than three years, ground and surface water protection are essential. Extraction will be by traditional drill and blast methods, while a mobile crushing and screening plant will be utilised for all processing. Drilling and blasting operations The extraction method and material processing should not directly cause any will be carried out in the quarry pits. chemical contamination of water. Appropriate licensing will be obtained, if groundwater is to be intersected. Mobile processing equipment and machinery will likely incorporate two crushers Construction of open drainage lines, levees and sediment/water storage (primary and secondary), screens and conveyors and other ancillary plant items dams will be completed before commencement of extraction and processing such as a diesel generator. operations will control surface water flows on-site. Drainage from disturbed areas will be directed along the drainage lines to a pit The mobile plant will include excavators, dump trucks and front end loaders. sump or sediment dams for re-direction to the water storage. Hired equipment such as bulldozers will be required on a temporary basis from time to time. If bulk fuels are stored on-site, these will be contained within bund storage facilities. Temporary amenities and workshop buildings can be Vehicle maintenance, servicing and lubricant storage will be conducted within located within the perimeter of the central processing facilities at the office / workshop. Oil spill kits will be maintained on-site for use area. Once extraction has developed sufficiently, by the staff or servicing companies. Sewage from the amenities buildings will be consideration may be given for in-pit crushing. treated in a septic system. All contaminated waste, including oil drums, grease cartridges and general waste The products will be transported largely within the will be removed and legally disposed of via contract waste disposal companies. wind farm site and avoid the local road system. All redundant tyres will be removed. DONN N E U L
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Traffic assessment Traffic and transport issues from the proposed wind farm development will have some impact on the local community.
Trustpower engaged Cardno to undertake a Traffic Impact Assessment, comprising: A description of the existing road network surrounding the project area in terms of capacity, condition, accessibility and travel; An evaluation of the potential traffic routes to the site for over-dimensional (OD) and other construction traffic; Determination of potential impacts of wind farm traffic on existing traffic routes and road conditions; Identification of mitigation measures and any upgrades or roadworks to accommodate wind farm traffic; and Ongoing traffic management works.
Trustpower and its consultants have committed to ongoing consultation with stakeholders and the implementation of a detailed Traffic Management Plan prior to and throughout construction.
Traffic impacts Major traffic impacts of the wind farm project will be during the construction Road upgrades phase, when deliveries of construction material, wind turbine components and Due to the long wheelbase of OD delivery vehicles, an assessment of their swept construction staff will converge on the site. paths has determined some local widening and intersection modifications will It is estimated that during peak construction activity the site will generate up to 300 be required along the Mortlake-Ararat Road and Woorndoo-Streatham Road. vehicle movements per day (inclusive of ingoing and outgoing trips), consisting This widening is not anticipated to impact on identified significant areas of native of about five over-dimensional deliveries, 10 heavy vehicles and in the order of vegetation. 135 standard vehicles. This compares to a current average traffic volume around In context with existing traffic flows on the surrounding road network, the Woordnoo (Woorndoo-Dundonnell, Woorndoo-Streatham and Woorndoo-Hexham anticipated level of traffic generated by the wind farm is within the physical roads) of about 260 vehicles per day, of which about 15 per cent (i.e. 40) are capacity of access routes to the site. Given this, these routes are considered to heavy vehicles. have sufficient capacity to accommodate the projected traffic volumes without The precise number of vehicle movements each day will vary, depending on warranting any widening works beyond that required to accommodate OD vehicles. construction activities and specific project requirements. During the wind farm’s It is acknowledged that a number of culverts along the preferred access route are operational phase, associated traffic will be significantly lower and limited to a few in poor condition with minimal cover to the existing road surface. Subject to further maintenance vehicles per day. investigation, mitigation measures or replacement may be required at the project’s A large proportion of the wind turbine generator and substation components will commencement. Post construction, the condition of all culverts would be reviewed exceed the typical mass and dimensional limits for vehicle transport in Victoria. and works undertaken to reinstate these to pre-development condition or better. Deliveries of these components from their points of origin will be subject to the relevant VicRoads and council permit requirements and will rely on previously approved OD routes for the nearby Salt Creek Wind Farm (under construction) and Mortlake Power Station. Road safety Traffic Management Plan Safety impacts of the proposed wind farm will be a key consideration over the A Traffic Management Plan (TMP) will be implemented as a condition of any project lifetime. planning permit issued for the proposed wind farm and be developed in Increased traffic on the proposed access routes will increase the frequency that consultation with VicRoads, Moyne Shire Council, Trustpower and any other drivers are required to pull over and allow vehicles to pass. However, noting that relevant parties. The TMP will provide a more comprehensive indication of traffic most movements will be directionally biased and limited to short periods at the impacts and generally identify responsibilities for road maintenance and upgrades beginning and end of each work day, it is envisioned the impacts of the additional throughout the construction period. wind farm traffic on driver safety will be minimal. In general this TMP would include: Over-dimensional deliveries will be carefully managed with all appropriate traffic Confirmation of expected traffic volumes generated by the wind farm for all work management measures put in place to ensure safe and controlled component stages; deliveries. Due to the nature of OD delivery vehicles, their speeds on the local road Identification/qualification of all heavy vehicle and OD vehicle haulage routes; network will be lower than the posted speed limit. Protocols to review identified haulage route road conditions prior to the An additional consideration is the impact of wind farm traffic on school bus commencement of works; routes. Services along or near site access routes have been identified and will Mechanisms/agreements to maintain haulage be considered in planning. It is envisioned that a window of inactivity for delivery route roads and road infrastructure during vehicles can be negotiated on either side of the expected school bus arrivals to construction works and to reinstate roads avoid interaction between OD vehicles, heavy vehicles and school bus traffic. to at least pre-construction conditions; Through implementing management and mitigation measures, the traffic and road Qualification of any requirement for specific work safety impacts associated with the wind farm construction will be minimised. stage construction traffic management plans; and Traffic delays will be minimised by, for example, notifying the local community early, restricting heavy / oversize deliveries to off-peak times where practicable (with Qualification and identification of relevant police escort if required) and using warning signs and traffic control. triggers for OD vehicle permits and traffic management requirements. O ND NN U E
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The turbines on the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm site will be connected by underground cables to an on-site substation.
From the on-site substation they will be connected by a 38 km long 220 kV transmission line to the Mortlake Gas Power Substation and there connected into the 500 kV line. It is planned to have the proposed transmission line on poles as represented here.
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Landscape and visual assessment The aim of the landscape and visual assessment is to evaluate the extent of visual change that would be brought about by the introduction of the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm and its associated infrastructure into the landscape. The assessment has been based upon viewpoints that have been selected from the landscape surrounding the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm. The viewpoints seek to provide a representation of the degree of visibility of the wind farm from a number of key populated or representative vantage points. The visual assessment has considered visual impacts to a distance of 20km from the proposed wind turbines and two kilometres from the proposed transmission line, which will connect the project to the electricity network. The overall visual impact for each viewpoint has been assessed along a scale of effects which considers: The number of viewers able to see the development; The distance of the tower from the development; and The landscape character at each viewing location and its sensitivity to visual change. This assessment also considers nearby urban areas and townships, recreation areas, scenic locations and minor roads. Landscape character Landscape character is based upon the underlying geology, vegetation, topography and drainage patterns, as well as the visual and physical modifications, structures and urban development. The landscape character surrounding the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm includes farmland, rural communities and towns and volcanic cones. Landscape sensitivity describes the ability of a landscape to absorb visual change and the values that the local community places on the landscape of the area. The sensitivity of viewers to change depends on: Visual effect Location Viewers travelling along a rural highway or local road with views over landscape The proposed wind turbines would be the most noticeable component of the with man-made modifications will be less sensitive to the presence of new proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm. The landscape and visual assessment has elements in an unmodified or naturally appearing landscape. The removal of assessed many views from locations within the viewshed of the proposed natural vegetation, as well as the visibility of roads, tracks, fences and rural Dundonnell Wind Farm. Viewing locations include highways, major and local roads, infrastructure decreases the sensitivity of a rural landscape. reserves and community places. The rarity of a particular landscape The assessment has found that although the wind turbines would be visible from The community values ‘rare landscapes’ more highly. many locations, The proposed wind turbines would be barely discernible from rural townships; The scenic qualities of a particular landscape Landscapes that are considered scenic because of dramatic topographical Views of the turbines would be limited to local roads that carry few traffic movements; changes, the presence of water or volcanic cones. There were no major scenic areas, public reserves and recreational areas that would be affected by the proposed wind turbines; Description of landscape units and their sensitivity The scale and character of the underlying rural landscape will remain. Landscape unit Sensitivity
Farmland Landscape Unit Low This unit is heavily man-modified, contains other infrastructure, not topographically Shadow flicker dramatic and does not contain large areas Shadow flicker is brought about by the rotation of wind turbine blades between the of water. sun and an observer. A conservative model of shadow flicker has been developed A higher level of sensitivity (not more than using details of the relative positions of the sun throughout the year, the wind turbines medium) may be given to the stony rises, at the site and the viewer. The Draft National Wind Farm Development Guidelines which are visually appealing. recommend a limit on the theoretical shadow flicker duration of 30 hours per year and a limit on the actual shadow flicker duration of 10 hours per year. Rural Communities & Townships Medium Landscape Unit Abundance of built forms and other visual elements lessen the sensitivity of these areas. A detailed shadow flicker study has been undertaken and completed from sensitive neighbouring locations to the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm. From the assessment, Volcanic Cones Landscape Unit High only one host land-holder dwelling is modelled to exceed the 30 hour and 10 hour limit. At a significantly higher elevation to the surroundings, this unit offers significant views to natural and man-made elements. Further detailed assessments, including consideration of other factors such as cloud cover and existing vegetation screening, will be undertaken on the final construction layout post development approval and appropriate mitigation measures incorporated to Blade glint ensure that no non-host dwelling exceeds the recommended 10 hour actual shadow flicker limit. Blade glint is brought about by the reflection of light from a rotating turbine blade. Modern turbines, such as those planned to be installed at the proposed Dundonnell Wind Farm, will be finished with non-reflective coatings to minimise blade glint. Trustpower Australia Holding Pty Ltd 52 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 P | 1800 122 823 E | [email protected] W | www.dundonnellwindfarm.com.au