Proposed large-scale coal mine developments in the Galilee Basin are expected to result in a substantial increase in electricity demand over the next four to five years.
To meet this emerging growth, Powerlink plans to extend its existing network into the region via two stages.
Stage 1: Powerlink is proposing to acquire a suitable site for a 'hub' substation 50km north of Alpha (to be known as Surbiton Hill Substation). An easement is also required for a proposed 275kV transmission line that will run between the Surbiton Hill Substation and Powerlink's existing Lilyvale Substation near Emerald.
Stage 2: Powerlink is proposing to acquire easements for two new 132kV transmission lines; one between the proposed Surbiton Hill Substation and Kevin's Corner Mine, and one between the proposed Surbiton Hill Substation and the Alpha Mine.
No decision will be made regarding the final alignment of the proposed transmission lines or the suitability of the substation sites until a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and related consultation has been completed.
Specialist environmental consultant GHD Pty Ltd (GHD) has been appointed to undertake the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the project, and to prepare separate Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) reports for Stage 1 and Stage 2. The Final EIS for Stage 1 was completed in September 2011, following input from landowners, community members and stakeholders. Stage 1 of the project will be submitted for planning approval (Ministerial designation) under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 using the Community Infrastructure Designation (CID) process.
The Draft EIS for Stage 2 was recently available for public comment, from 2 December 2011 until 16 January 2012. The report identifies any potential environmental, social and economic impacts of the proposed infrastructure and recommended management and mitigation methods. Written submissions on the Draft EIS have now been received and the submission period has closed. All submissions will now be reviewed, considered and addressed in the Final EIS, and submitters will be advised of the outcome of their submissions.
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