In summary, the key changes in the new proposed project scope are:
- The urgent Sydenham Terminal Station Rebuild would be completed separately.
- The 220kV portion of the transmission line is proposed to be uprated to 500kV.
- The new terminal station north of Ballarat would no longer be required.
- A new 500kV switchyard and associated equipment near the existing Bulgana Terminal Station would be required.
You can view the new Environment Effects Statement referral for the Western Renewables Link on the Department of Transport website, at: www.planning.vic.gov.au/environmental-assessments/browse-projects.
The Minister will now consider our referral, with a decision anticipated by the end of August 2023.
We will continue engaging with landholders and undertaking field surveys to inform project design and construction planning throughout this period.
Pending a decision from the Minister on the new Environment Effects Statement referral, we will provide an update on when we expect to submit the Western Renewables Link Environment Effects Statement to the Department of Transport and Planning Impact Assessment Unit.
The Sydenham Terminal Station Rebuild, to urgently replace and upgrade the existing Sydenham Terminal Station, would be managed as a separate project and will be built before the Western Renewables Link through a separate planning approval pathway.
About the project
The Western Renewables Link is a proposed electricity transmission line that will carry renewable energy from western Victoria to homes and businesses across the state and into the National Electricity Market.
The project is critical infrastructure required to unlock the renewable energy potential of western Victoria as a key Renewable Energy Zone and will help deliver clean and affordable energy to all Victorians.
Project updates
To register for regular updates about the project, please visit www.westernrenewableslink.com.au. If you have any questions, please call 1300 360 795 or email info@westernrenewableslink.com.au.