General News
29 November, 2024
Mixed thoughts on energy generation project
An angry Member of Parliament has taken to social media after an announcement last week about a renewable energy park being built in Horsham.
An angry Member of Parliament has taken to social media after an announcement last week about a renewable energy park being built in Horsham.
Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy, attended the announcement in Horsham last week by Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for the State Electricity Commission Lily D'Ambrosio, and concluded after the event that no-one knows much, and no answers were being provided.
In what will be the first 100 per cent government owned energy generator in Victoria, since the state's energy system was privatised, the SEC Renewable Energy Park will be capable of generating around 242,000 megawatts of renewable energy a year.
It will be a $370 million investment that will see close to 250 jobs created in the town.
"Neighbouring landholders have been locked out of the announcement - some saying haven’t been told of the approval, even those that live within 2km," Ms Kealy posted.
"A CFA volunteer is here - the local brigade hasn’t been consulted and he says he will refuse to turn out to a fire.
"Even concerns are being raised about the number of hot exhausts in the stubble paddock today!
"Questions about whether the batteries are bunded to protect runoff into the Wimmera River cannot be answered."
In her video, Ms Kealy said the facility would just push up the cost of energy for all Victorians because every time there are new lines built, it drives up bills for electricity.
"We want to know why we have to trade off prime agricultural land and get nothing in return,” she said.
While Ms Kealy has condemned the decision, Horsham Rural City Council have welcomed the news of the establishment being constructed locally.
HRCC Mayor Ian Ross said the project positioned Horsham as a key player in Victoria’s clean energy landscape.
“We welcome the state government’s decision to build this landmark renewable energy park in our city," he said.
"It’s a significant step towards a sustainable future for Horsham and Victoria.
“Previously, HRCC worked with private developer OX2 on planning approvals when the project was known as the Horsham Solar Farm.":
Cr Ross said the original scope was granted planning approval in 2018, with no objections from our local community.
“The project has now increased in capability and will now generate around 242,000 megawatt hours (MWh) of renewable energy a year," he said.
"That’s enough to power a city three times the size of Horsham.
"Importantly, there is no significant increase in the site’s footprint."
Cr Ross said with the project’s expansion and transfer of ownership to the Victorian Government, HRCC has been working on the necessary final approval plans and strategies to ensure our local community shares in the project’s benefits.
What are your thoughts on the announcement? Share them with us by emailing zoey@wmnews.com.au