The existing 132kV transmission line between Powerlink's Ingham and Tully substations is more than 50 years old, and requires replacement to ensure the continued reliability of high voltage electricity supply to Far North Queensland.
The replacement line will also cater for future growth in electricity demand for the communities of Ingham, Cardwell, Tully and surrounding areas.
The final alignment for the proposed line confirms 70% will be built on the same alignment as the existing line. The remaining 30% is expected to deviate from the existing alignment due to changes in land use, development near the existing line, and possible upgrades to nearby infrastructure.
During environmental investigations undertaken for this project, some species and potential habitat for species listed under the Commonwealth’s Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 (EPBC) were identified.Consequently, Powerlink referred the project to the Commonwealth Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities for assessment under the EPBC Act. Following assessment, the project was deemed to be a ‘controlled action’ which means that the project requires the Commonwealth Government’s consent to proceed. In accordance with the procedure detailed under the EPBC Act, Powerlink undertook a comprehensive consultation process in the project area.
On 14th September 2011 Powerlink received approval for the project from the Commonwealth. Documentation which was required for this approval includes the Mahogany Glider Management Plan and Vegetation Management Plan, which detail how Powerlink will manage any potential environmental impacts related to these matters of National Environmental Significance. On 16th February 2012, Powerlink received approval from the Commonwealth for its Mahogany Glider Offsets Strategy, which was the final approval required for the project to proceed under the EPBC.Powerlink appointed specialist environmental consultant RPS (formerly Natural Solutions) in 2008 to undertake an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the project.
As part of the EIA, RPS prepared a Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in July 2010, following input from the community and other stakeholders.
Copies of the Mahogany Glider Management Plan, Vegetation Management Plan and Mahogany Glider Offsets Strategy can be downloaded from the Environmental documents page. A copy of the Final EIS is also available for downloading from the Environmental documents page or alternatively, a CD copy of the report can be requested by phoning Powerlink on Freecall 1800 635 369 (during business hours).
The designation and resumption processes for the project commenced in mid 2010.
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