DUNDONNELL WIND FARM SUBSTATIONPLANNING AND LAND USE ASSESSMENT

MAY 2017

PREPARED FOR TILT RENEWABLES AUSTRALIA PTY

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All Rights Reserved. No material may be reproduced w ithout prior permission. You must read the important disclaimer appearing w ithin the body of this report.

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URBIS STAFF RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS REPORT WERE:

Director Stuart McGurn

Senior Consultant Clare Szymczyk

Project Code MA10077

Report Number RP_01

CONTENTS

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 1

1. Background ................................................................................................................................ 3

2. Subject Site and Surrounds ......................................................................................................... 4

2.1. The Subject Site ......................................................................................................................... 4

2.2. The Surrounds ............................................................................................................................ 4

3. The Proposal .............................................................................................................................. 6

4. Planning Policy ........................................................................................................................... 8

4.1. Farming Zone (FZ) ...................................................................................................................... 8

4.2. Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO) ................................................................................. 9

4.3. State Planning Policy Framework (SPPF) ..................................................................................... 9

4.4. Local Planning Policy Framework (LPPF) ....................................................................................10

4.4.1. Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) ..........................................................................................10

4.4.2. Local Planning Policies (LPPs) ...................................................................................................10

4.5. Particular Provisions ..................................................................................................................10

4.6. General Provisions .....................................................................................................................10

4.7. Cultural Heritage .......................................................................................................................11

5. Assessment...............................................................................................................................12

5.1. General Issues ..........................................................................................................................12

5.2. Agricultural Issues ......................................................................................................................12

5.3. Environmental Issues .................................................................................................................13

5.4. Design and Siting Issues ............................................................................................................14

5.5. Traffic Impacts ...........................................................................................................................14

5.6. Noise Impacts ............................................................................................................................15

5.7. Cultural Heritage Impacts ...........................................................................................................15

6. Conclusion ................................................................................................................................16

Disclaimer .............................................................................................................................................17

FIGURES:

Figure 1 – Dundonnell Wind Farm.............................................................................................................1

Figure 2 – Substation Relocation ..............................................................................................................2

Figure 3 – Proposed Area of Works ..........................................................................................................4

Figure 4 – The Immediate Surrounds ........................................................................................................5

Figure 5 – The Wider Surrounds ...............................................................................................................5

Figure 6 – Substation Location .................................................................................................................6

Figure 7 – Stage 1 - Indicative Substation Layout Plan ...............................................................................7

Figure 8 – Stage 2 - Indicative Substation Layout Plan ...............................................................................7

Figure 9 – Indicative Substation Elevation .................................................................................................7

Figure 10 – Zoning Map ...........................................................................................................................8

Figure 11 – Overlay Map (ESO3) ..............................................................................................................9

Figure 12 – Statutory Areas of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Sensitivity ...................................................... 11

Figure 13 – Significant Vegetation (Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs)) prepared by BL&A ................... 13

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INTRODUCTION 1

INTRODUCTION This Report has been prepared on behalf of Tilt Renewables Australia Pty Ltd (formerly Trustpower Australia) in support of a planning application to relocate the approved substation associated with the

recently approved Dundonnell Wind Farm in south-west Victoria.

The proposed substation will be located on land adjoining the east of the Mortlake Gas Power Station (MOPS), less than 500 metres from the existing approval. The substation is required to transform the electricity generated from the Dundonnell Wind Farm (located approximately 23 kilometres north-east of

Mortlake), allowing connection to the electricity grid via MOPS.

The Dundonnell Wind Farm and associated infrastructure is illustrated in Figure 1 below.

Figure 1 – Dundonnell Wind Farm

The Dundonnell Wind Farm was approved by the Minister of Planning on 30 June 2016 under Planning Permit 2015/23858, following a rigorous planning and environmental assessment process. The Dundonnell Wind Farm will be one of Victoria’s largest wind farms, comprising a maximum of 96 turbines. The Wind

Farm will have a generation capacity of approximately 300 Megawatts (MW) and an annual output of approximately 1,000GWh, providing enough energy to power approximately 140,000 homes.

The Wind Farm’s associated infrastructure was approved under separate planning permits issued on 23 October 2016, with the transmission line approved under Planning Permit PL15/075 and the off-site

substation under Permit PL15/074. It is now proposed to alter the location of the off-site substation and therefore, the proposal is intended to replace the substation approved under PL15/074. Only one off-site substation will be constructed.

As illustrated in Figure 2 overleaf, the current permit allows for the substation on Crown Allotment 1, Section

10, Parish of Connewarren. The revised location would result in the substation being located to the south-west of the approved, on Crown Allotment 3, Section 10, Parish of Connewarren. The approved substation is located on land owned by the Australian Blue gum Plantations Pty Ltd, while the proposed substation site is

2 INTRODUCTION

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owned by Tilt Renewables (the permit applicant and Wind Farm proponent). Thus, the proposed relocation is sought to allow the substation to be developed on land owned by the proponent.

The existing (approved) and the proposed location is illustrated in Figure 2 following.

Figure 2 – Substation Relocation

The substation is required transform the electricity generated from the Wind Farm via a 220kV transmission line to the 500kV transmission line for connection to the electricity grid at MOPS (the Heywood-Moorabool network). The substation will connect to the transmission line approved under PL15/075 and is located within the transmission line corridor.

The proposal is subject to the provisions of the Moyne Planning Scheme. In accordance with the Scheme, a

planning permit is required for the use and development of a utility installation pursuant to the Farming Zone. The Minister for Planning is the responsible authority for the proposed utility installation.

This Report addresses the planning merits of the proposal and its consistency with relevant controls and policies of the Moyne Planning Scheme. This report should be read in conjunction with the following

information:

▪ Concept Plans prepared for Tilt Renewable Australia Pty Ltd, dated April 2017;

▪ Noise Assessment prepared by Marshall Day, dated 13 April 2017;

▪ Flora and Fauna Assessment prepared by BL&A, dated February 2017;

▪ Traffic Impact Assessment prepared by Cardno, dated 12 April 2017; and

▪ Cultural Heritage Letter, prepared by Archaeology at Tardis, dated 20 February 2017.

This Report and accompanying material demonstrates that the proposed substation is consistent with relevant planning policy, controls and the existing approval. Importantly, the proposed use and development is similar to the approved off-site substation for the Dundonnell Wind Farm, albeit on an adjoining parcel of

land and with the potential for one additional transformer. The supporting technical assessments demonstrate that no additional impacts are expected above those previously assessed under the approved substation.

The proposal forms an integral element of Dundonnell Wind Farm and will contribute to the success of this

important project.

APPROVED SUBSTATION LOCATION

PROPOSED SUBSTATION LOCATION

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BACKGROUND 3

1. BACKGROUND The proposed substation will form a fundamental element of the Dundonnell Wind Farm project. The Wind Farm gained planning approval from the Minister of Planning in 2016 and comprises three key components,

each subject to separate permits.

These components are:

1. The Wind energy facility (Permit 2015/23858 issued 30 June 2016)

- The wind farm will comprise a maximum of 96 turbines, an on-site substation, up to four wind monitoring masts

2. The transmission line (Permit PL15/075, issued 23 October 2016)

- The transmission line will comprise a 220kV line with a length of approximately 38km connecting the on-site substation to the off-site substation and a 500kV line with a length of approximately 1km

connecting the off-site substation to MOPS.

3. The off-site substation (Permit PL15/074, issued 23 October 2016)

- The offsite substation will comprise one or two transformers, converting the electricity from 220kV to

500kV enabling the connection to MOPS and the electricity grid.

The project was subject to extensive assessment with all three components assessed concurrently by relevant authorities.

Given the scale and potential impacts of the project (specifically the wind energy facility and the transmission line), multiple legislative approvals were required. In addition to the three planning approvals required under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (P&E Act), approval was required under the Environmental Effects

Act 1987 (EE Act), the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (AH Act) and the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act .

The three planning applications were submitted concurrently for assessment with an Environmental Effects

Statement (EES). The project was subject to an Inquiry and Panel Hearing in which approval was recommended for the project. The recommendations are detailed in the EES Inquiry and Planning Permit Applications Panel Report dated 11 January 2016.

The Minister for Planning subsequently issued his Assessment in February 2016, recommending approval for the three planning applications subject to conditions.

The recommendations contained within the Ministers Assessment are reflected in the conditions contained in

the three planning permits issued.

In relation to the off-site substation, Permit PL15/074 contains conditions that must be complied with prior to the commencement of construction, including the submission and approval of detailed development plans.

No plans have yet been submitted for endorsement under this permit.

Given the proposed change in location of the substation, it is no longer intended to act on Permit PL15/074 if a permit is issued for the proposed. The proposed use and development however, remains generally

consistent with that previously assessed and therefore, it is considered all permit conditions remain relevant and should be reflected on any new permit issued.

Further, as there are no significant changes to the proposed substation that would result in further amenity or

environmental impacts from that approved, the proposal is of no consequence to the overall project’s previous assessment.

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2. SUBJECT SITE AND SURROUNDS 2.1. THE SUBJECT SITE The subject site is located to the east of the Mortlake Gas Power Station (MOPS), approximately 11 kilometres west of Mortlake in south-west Victoria. The site is illustrated in Figure 3 below.

Figure 3 – Proposed Area of Works

The site forms part of a large Blue gum plantation, with the proposed area of works (the subject site) located

within the north-west corner of the plantation. Topographically, the land is relatively flat with a slight depression located within the centre of the plantation. This area supports an ephemeral wetland area, with a waterbody to the east of this area.

Vehicular access is gained from Connewarren Lane to the south of the site within the east of the site’s

frontage, with informal access tracks running around the perimeter of the plantation.

The land is formally described as Crown Allotment 3, Section 10, Parish of Connewarren. There are no easements or restrictive covenants detailed on Title.

2.2. THE SURROUNDS The Immediate Surrounds

The surrounding area comprises generally agricultural land with the exception of MOPS located to the west of the site. The immediate surrounds are summarised following and illustrated in Figure 4 overleaf.

The land to the immediate north comprises part of the Blue gum plantation. This land forms the site of the

existing substation approval under PL15/074. Intersecting the site is an existing transmission line connecting into MOPS to the south-west. The land further north comprises plantation land that has been recently harvested.

The land to the south and east of the site comprise large agricultural landholdings.

The land to the west of the site is occupied by MOPS. This is the largest gas -fired power station in Victoria,

comprising a site of approximately 110 hectares.

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SUBJECT SITE AND SURROUNDS 5

Figure 4 – The Immediate Surrounds

The Broader Surrounds

The broader area is characterised by agricultural uses, with the land generally cleared for grazing and cropping activities. There are a number of residential properties generally supporting farming uses within the

area, with the closest dwelling located approximately 1.2 kilometres south-east from the proposed area of works.

The closest townships are Hexham, located approximately 7.5 kilometres to the north and Ellerslie located approximately 9.5 kilometres to the south. Mortlake is the largest nearby town, located approximately 11

kilometres east of the subject site. The location of the subject site in relation to Mortlake is shown in Figure 5.

Figure 5 – The Wider Surrounds

SUBJECT SITE

6 THE PROPOSAL URBIS

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3. THE PROPOSAL Approval is sought for the use and development of a utility installation (substation) to be used in association with the Dundonnell Wind Farm.

The substation will be located on land adjoining the east of MOPS. The substation compound will have a

length of approximately 280 metres and a maximum width of approximately 180 metres, occupying an area of approximately 4.7 hectares. The site will be cleared of vegetation to enable the construction of the substation. The siting of the substation is illustrated in Figure 6 below.

Figure 6 – Substation Location

Access will be provided via the existing crossover from Connewarren Lane. Minor works are proposed to the crossover to improve the surface. The existing access around the periphery of the site will provide vehicular

access to the substation, with minor widening works required to this track.

The substation will comprise the following key elements:

▪ Internal access tracks allowing for construction and maintenance works

▪ A total of three transformers with a height of approximately 4 metres (two transformers under Stage 1 and three under Stage 2)

▪ Lattice towers with an overall height of approximately 30 metres

▪ Overhead power lines

▪ Operations and Management Office and associated car parking

▪ Detention Pond

▪ Perimeter fencing

▪ Perimeter landscaping

The substation is proposed to be constructed in two stages. The first stage will comprise two transformers, as illustrated in Figures 7 and 9 overleaf. The second stage will incorporate a third transformer within the existing footprint, as illustrated in Figure 8 and 9 overleaf.

For the operation of the Dundonnell Wind Farm, two transformers are required. The third transformer proposed in Stage 2 will provide the opportunity for additional infrastructure to connect to the substation and the potential for further generation if required in future.

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THE PROPOSAL 7

Figure 7 – Stage 1 - Indicative Substation Layout Plan

Figure 8 – Stage 2 - Indicative Substation Layout Plan

Figure 9 – Indicative Substation Elevation

Further design specifics will be confirmed during the detailed design stage of the project with input from the electricity provider.

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4. PLANNING POLICY A planning permit is required for the use and development of the proposed substation (defined as a utility installation) under the provisions of the Moyne Planning Scheme (the Scheme). The key planning policies

and provisions relevant to the proposal are outlined following.

4.1. FARMING ZONE (FZ) The subject site is located within the Farming Zone pursuant to Clause 35.07 of the Scheme. The zoning of the land is shown in Figure 10 below.

The purpose of the Zone is:

▪ ‘To implement the State Planning Policy Framework and the Local Planning Policy Framework, including the Municipal Strategic Statement and local planning policies.

▪ To provide for the use of land for agriculture.

▪ To encourage the retention of productive agricultural land.

▪ To ensure that non-agricultural uses, including dwellings, do not adversely affect the use of land for

agriculture.

▪ To encourage the retention of employment and population to support rural communities.

▪ To encourage use and development of land based on comprehensive and sustainable land management

practices and infrastructure provision. ’

Figure 10 – Zoning Map

In accordance with Clause 35.07-1, the use of land for Utility Installation is a ‘Section 2’ use and therefore, requires a planning permit.

Under Clause 35.07-4, a permit is required for buildings and works associated with a ‘Section 2’ use.

The Schedule to the Farming Zone provides additional controls on development and subdivision.

Clause 35.07-4 details decision guidelines that must be considered before deciding on an application. The

key issues relevant to the application relate to capability of the land to accommodate the proposed use and its compatibility with surrounding uses, the impact on productive agricultural land and the potential for environmental impacts, visual impacts and amenity impacts as a result of the proposal.

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PLANNING POLICY 9

4.2. ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE OVERLAY (ESO) The site is located entirely within the Environmental Significance Overlay Schedule 3 (ESO3), as illustrated

in Figure 11. This Overlay relates to the Mortlake Power Station Environs. This Overlay acknowledges the potential for noise impacts on surrounding land as a result of MOPS and seeks to ensure that future development of MOPS is not constrained by the establishment of conflicting land uses and developments

nearby.

Figure 11 – Overlay Map (ESO3)

A permit is not required under this Overlay as the proposal is not associated with accommodation.

4.3. STATE PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK (SPPF) The following State policies are of particular relevance to this application:

▪ Clause 11 – Settlement

▪ Clause 13 – Environmental Risks

▪ Clause 14 – Natural Resource Management

▪ Clause 15 – Built Environment and Heritage

▪ Clause 19 – Infrastructure

In summary, these policies broadly seek to:

▪ Promote sustainable growth and development in regional Victoria, while protecting viable and productive agricultural land.

▪ Protect and conserve Victoria’s biodiversity and significant landscapes.

▪ Ensure development is not prejudiced and community amenity is not reduced by noise emissions.

▪ Protect and conserve places of historic and Aboriginal cultural heritage significance.

▪ Facilitate renewable energy development in appropriate locations.

▪ Develop infrastructure to meet community demand for energy services.

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4.4. LOCAL PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK (LPPF) In accordance with the general objectives of the SPPF, Council’s LPPF strives to balance the provision of

services and infrastructure and encourage development in appropriate areas while protecting the natural environment, as well as the significant agricultural areas important to the municipalities economy.

The LPPF contains Council’s key strategic directions for land use planning and development within the Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) and local policies to achieve key directions. The key clauses relevant

to the assessment of the proposal are summarised following.

4.4.1. Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS)

▪ Clause 21.03 ‘Factors Influencing Future Planning and Development’ acknowledges that the municipality relies heavily on agricultural activity as its economic base and that agricultural activity

needs to be preserved.

▪ Clause 21.04 ‘Municipal Vision’ details Council’s land use and development goals, with a key goal being to achieve a balance between development and the protection of the natural environment.

▪ Clause 21.06 ‘ Environment’ notes that the majority of the land within the municipality has been converted to agriculture and with this, natural environmental values and scenic values have declined. This Clause encourages sustainable development and seeks to protect biodiversity, as well as visual

impacts on identified areas of significant landscape character.

▪ Clause 21.07 ‘Economic Development’ seeks to support local employment opportunities. The Clause acknowledges there is an increasing pressure for wind farms in the coastal hinterland and seeks clearer

direction for the development of the coast.

▪ Clause 21.08 ‘Infrastructure and Particular Uses’ acknowledges, amongst other things, the importance of the road network and seeks to protect the amenity of arterial roads. Further, the availability of

electricity to rural areas and options for upgrading electricity supplies is being considered by Council.

4.4.2. Local Planning Policies (LPPs)

▪ Clause 22.03 ‘Economic Development’ applies to all industrial and rural zones. Clause 22.03-4 relates

specifically to agricultural production and seeks to promote sustainable agricultural industries and protect highly productive agricultural land from inappropriate uses and development.

4.5. PARTICULAR PROVISIONS The following particular provision is relevant to the proposed substation:

▪ Clause 52.17 ‘Native Vegetation’ seeks to ensure the clearing of native vegetation results in no net loss

in the contribution made by native vegetation to Victoria’s biodiversity. Pursuant to Clause 51.17-2, a permit is required to remove, destroy or lop native vegetation unless, amongst other exemptions, Clause 52.17-7 states that a permit is not required.

Clause 52.17-7 states that a permit is not required for the removal of planted vegetation that has been planted or grown as a result of direct seeding for crop raising. All vegetation to be removed falls within this exemption.

4.6. GENERAL PROVISIONS The following general provisions are relevant to the proposed substation:

▪ Clause 61.01 ‘Administration and enforcement of the scheme’ specified the responsible authority for the

enforcement of the Scheme. In accordance with Clause 61.01-1, the Minister for Planning is the responsible authority for the use and development of a utility installation used to transit or distribute electricity generated by a Wind Energy Facility.

▪ Clause 66 ‘Referral and Notice Provisions’ details referral and notice requirements for specific use and development. Pursuant to Clause 66.02-2, an application to construct a building or construct or carry out works on land within 60 metres of a major electricity transmission line (220kV or more) or an easement

must be referred to the relevant electricity transmission authority.

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PLANNING POLICY 11

4.7. CULTURAL HERITAGE The nearby areas identified for Aboriginal cultural heritage sensitivity are illustrated in green in Figure 12

below. The subject site is not located within an area of statutory sensitivity.

Although not in an area of statutory sensitivity, a CHMP has been approved for the transmission line and off-site substation and is relevant to the proposal (refer to Section 5.7 of this Report for further detail).

Figure 12 – Statutory Areas of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Sensitivity

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5. ASSESSMENT The proposed substation is consistent with the off-site substation approved under Permit PL15/074, except that it is to be located on a different parcel of land immediately to the south-west and will comprise

construction in two stages, with the incorporation of a third transformer in Stage 2. Importantly, if approval is granted for the proposed substation, Permit PL15/074 will not be acted on. Only one off-site substation will be constructed in association with the Dundonnell Wind Farm and thus, the following assessment assumes

the site of the approved substation will remain undeveloped in the foreseeable future.

The following assessment demonstrates compliance with relevant planning policy. Importantly, based on the findings of supporting technical assessments, this discussion demonstrates that the proposal will result in no additional impacts above those previously assessed with the approved substation.

The Farming Zone forms the requirement for planning approval under the Moyne Planning Scheme. As

such, the relevant decision guidelines contained within the Zone form the basis of the following assessment, with additional matters, including noise, traffic and cultural heritage impacts discussed.

5.1. GENERAL ISSUES The proposed substation will be located less than 500 metres from the substation approved under Permit PL15/074. Both properties share similar traits. They are located within the Blue gum plantation and are

subject to the same planning controls, being located within the Farming Zone and within ESO3. There have been no relevant changes to planning policy since the issue of Permit PL15/074. Thus, the approval of the substation on the adjoining parcel of land suggests that such a use and development is appropriate in

context and accords with relevant planning policy.

In general, the proposal complies with the broad objectives of State planning policy which seek to encourage infrastructure to meet demand for services such as energy in appropriate locations. Further, policy (specifically, Clause 11, 15 and 19) encourages renewable energy facilities in appropriate locations. The

local planning policy framework expands on these general objectives and encourages sustainable development while noting the importance of agriculture to the local economy, as well as the protection of the Shire’s significant landscapes.

The substation is associated with a renewable energy facility, being fundamental to the operation of one of

the State’s largest approved wind farms. To this respect, the proposal accords with the sustainable energy objectives of policy. Further, the proposal will not impact the character of any sensitive landscapes, being located well inland from the coast and will not encroach on productive farming land.

In accordance with policy objectives, the proposed siting of the development is in an entirely appropriate

location. The site is of a scale that can comfortably accommodate the proposed use and development, allowing for appropriate buffers for landscaping. We are instructed that the proposed loss of agricultural land will not impact the viability of the overall plantation (as discussed in Section 5.2) and the proposed use is

compatible with adjoining land uses.

Being located adjacent to MOPS, the proposal will consolidate and make use of existing infrastruc ture, enabling connection into the power station via a short 500kV transmission line. The proposal will complement adjoining infrastructure and will not conflict with nearby uses or development. Of note, it will be

well separated from any sensitive land uses, with the closest dwelling located approximately 1.2 kilometres to the south-east. The proposed relocation will increase the distance from the closest dwelling to the south-east by approximately 250 metres (from approximately 950 metres as approved).

In summary, the proposed substation will support a renewable energy facility of State significance. The

proposal complies with the general objectives of State and local policy, forming sustainable development which is appropriately sited.

5.2. AGRICULTURAL ISSUES Being located within the Farming Zone, the key purpose of the land is for agriculture. The subject site is currently used for timber production, forming part of a larger Blue gum plantation. While this falls within an agricultural use, the proposal will only impact a small portion of the land and, the footprint is such that the

loss of agricultural land, when compared to the wider area, will be inconsequential.

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ASSESSMENT 13

Given the nature of the use, the impact will be limited to the proposed area of works and the proposal will not be of detriment to the operation or future expansion of surrounding agricultural uses. When the use of the substation ceases, the substation will be decommissioned and revegetation of the land will be undertaken. It

is expected that this requirement will be reflected as a condition of permit, as it has in Condition 20 of Permit PL15/074.

The proposed substation will impact the same approximate extent of the Blue gum plantation that the approved substation would impact. Thus, the proposal would result in no additional impacts to agricultural

land than that previously assessed and considered acceptable.

5.3. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES A comprehensive flora and fauna assessment has been undertaken of the subject site and surrounding area

by Brett Lane and Associates (BL&A). The Flora and Fauna Assessment details the site conditions and relevant environmental legislation and concludes that the proposed substation will have no undue environmental impacts, nor requires any further environmental approvals.

The siting of the proposed substation has been carefully located to avoid areas of particular environmental

significance. The proposal will be located in the north-west corner of the site, providing a significant buffer from the ephemeral wetland area to the centre of the plantation, which contains remnant vegetation. Further, the site is relatively flat, thereby requiring only minimal earthworks.

The proposal will require the removal of Blue gums for the substation and access track, however as these

are planted and grown as a result of direct seeding, a permit is not required under Clause 52.17 of the Scheme for their removal and no offsets are required. The proposal will not impact any remnant vegetation, endangered species or threatened ecological communities.

The location of significant vegetation is illustrated in Figure 13.

Figure 13 – Significant Vegetation (Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs)) prepared by BL&A

As detailed in the Flora and Fauna Assessment, the proposed substation will have no additional

environmental impacts above those previously assessed in the approved location.

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An Environmental Management Plan(s) will be prepared for the Dundonnell Wind Farm and associated infrastructure. As the substation forms an integral part of this project, the development will be undertaken in accordance with this Plan, thereby ensuring environmental impacts are carefully managed. This is expected

to form a condition of permit, reflective of Condition 16 of Permit PL15/074.

5.4. DESIGN AND SITING ISSUES The substation will comprise electrical infrastructure with the largest components being three lattice towers

with heights of approximately 30 metres. Other significant elements comprise steel towers with heights of approximately 22 metres, with the remainder of infrastructure approximately 15 metres in height or less , as illustrated in Figure 9. In Stage 2, 3 metre high concrete walls will be required to be erected to the east of

each transformer to mitigate noise impacts to the closest residence. Power lines and wires connect the infrastructure with the 220kV transmission line connection in the east and the 500kV transmission line connection to the west.

The proposed infrastructure is similar to the approved substation (illustrated in the Indicative Plan prepared

by ERM dated 10 April 2015 forming part of Permit PL15/074). For the operation of the Dundonnell Wind Farm, a total of two transformers are considered fundamental. A third transformer is now proposed to be incorporated into the substation at a later date (referred to as Stage 2) to provide the opportunity for

additional infrastructure to connect to the substation and the potential for further generation if required in future. The incorporation of the third transformer will have minimal additional visual impacts being located alongside the other transformers.

The proposed substation will be located directly to the east of MOPS. The site is not located within a visually

sensitive landscape and the proposal will not impact and significant views or vistas. The infrastructure associated with the substation will be visually similar to the adjoining power station, albeit much smaller in scale. The proposed development will be consolidated within one area measuring approximately 4.7

hectares to minimise impacts on surrounding land.

Being located within a Blue gum plantation, the development will be well screened and existing vegetation planted along property boundaries will filter views of the substation from Connewarren Lane.

Although visual impacts are expected to be negligible, landscaping is proposed along the perimeter of the site forming a buffer of approximately 15 metres. An on-site landscaping plan will be prepared to ensure

appropriate screening of the substation and associated buildings. It is expected that a condition will be placed on permit to this effect, as was required under Condition 14 of Permit PL15/074.

The proposal will be sited to allow efficient access to the substation via the existing access track from Connewarren Lane to the south (as discussed in Section 5.5 below). Although minor works will be required

to the existing access, the proposal will minimise the need for additional vegetation removal and further access points.

5.5. TRAFFIC IMPACTS A Traffic Impact Assessment has been prepared by Cardno to address the traffic impact of the proposed substation.

The substation will have no further impacts to traffic generation above the approved substation. The greatest

traffic impacts will be during the construction of the proposed substation. This however, will be confined to a short time period (four to six weeks) and impact to the road network after this time is expected to be negligible.

Vehicular access is proposed to the substation via the existing access point from Connewarren Lane within

the east of the site’s frontage. The access track will have a width of approximately 20 metres and will follow the existing site’s access along the western periphery of the site to the substation. Works will be required to this access to provide appropriate access for Over Dimensional (OD) vehicles in order to transport the

transformers to site. Specifically, the crossover will be sealed to minimise debris being transferred to Connewarren Lane and the track will be widened as required and the gravel/soil surface improved. The proposed widening will be minor and while it will require the removal of some trees within the Blue gum

plantation, it will not require the removal of any vegetation within the road reserve.

A comprehensive traffic management plan will be prepared prior to the commencement of works in consultation with Moyne Shire Council and VicRoads. This Plan will identify all vehicular routes and works proposed and will detail traffic management measures to be implemented to ensure the proposal, specifically

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ASSESSMENT 15

during the construction phase, has no undue impacts on the existing road network. It is expected that a condition of approval would require a traffic management plan, as was required under Condition 10 of Permit PL15/074.

5.6. NOISE IMPACTS A Noise Assessment has been undertaken by Marshall Day to ensure noise levels from the proposed substation will comply with relevant noise criterion. The Noise Assessment indicates that the noise levels

from the substation, including the cumulative noise levels taking into consideration MOPS, are expected to comply with relevant noise criterion.

Specifically, in accordance with Conditions 6c and 7 of Permit PL15/074, noise levels from the approved substation must not exceed noise levels under the EPA’s Publication 411 “Noise from Industry in Regional

Victoria” (NIRV) and the substation is required to comply with NIRV. This requirement would be expected to be reflected on any approval issued for the proposed substation.

Stage 1 of the substation will only comprise two transformers and will comply with relevant noise criterion without mitigation measures. There is however, a minor increase in noise levels (1dB) with the introduction of

a third transformer as part of the Stage 2 works. As such, to mitigate noise impacts to the closest residential property, solid walls are proposed to the east of each transformer at Stage 2. The transformers will comprise an area of approximately 4 cubic metres with the major noise source being the fan, with a height of

approximately 2 metres. Thus, the acoustic walls with a height of 3 metres are considered sufficient to appropriately mitigate the noise from the transformers.

In addition to the above, ESO3 acknowledges the potential for noise impacts on surrounding land as a result of MOPS and seeks to ensure that future development of the power station is not constrained by surrounding

land uses and developments. The proposed substation is not a sensitive land use and thus, noise generated from MOPS will not impact the proposal. Importantly, the substation will have no impact on the ongoing operation of MOPS in accordance with the objectives of ESO3.

5.7. CULTURAL HERITAGE IMPACTS The proposed substation is not located within a statutory area of Aboriginal cultural heritage and therefore, a

mandatory CHMP is not required. The site however, forms part of the area included within the approved CHMP (CHMP12394) which was undertaken for the Dundonnell Wind Farm transmission line and substation.

An assessment of the substation in the proposed location has been undertaken by Tardis and presented in their letter dated 20 February 2017. The proposed substation is consistent with the approved CHMP and

therefore, the proposed works will be undertaken in accordance with this Plan. Although no significant Aboriginal cultural heritage is expected in the area of works, the CHMP will ensure that any unexpected impacts will be appropriately managed in accordance with the Contingency Plan.

16 CONCLUSION URBIS

RP_01_REV1

6. CONCLUSION The proposed substation is intended to replace the currently approved off-site substation for the Dundonnell Wind Farm and ultimately, supersede Permit PL15/074.

The proposed substation remains similar to the approved in terms of use and development but the siting is

approximately 500 metres to the south-west and an additional transformer is proposed in a second stage. The relocation of the substation will enable the development to be located on a lot now owned by the proponent (Tilt Renewables). Further, the potential for a third transformer as part of Stage 2 works wil l

increase the substation’s capability and enable the connection of additional infrastructure to the substation in future.

Supporting technical assessments demonstrate that the proposed alterations will have no additional impacts above those previously assessed and considered appropriate. The specifics of the design will be confirmed

during the detailed design stage of the project, yet will remain generally in accordance with the submitted concept plans.

The above assessment demonstrates compliance with relevant planning policy. Further, the existing substation approval on the adjoining lot reaffirms the appropriateness of such a use and development in this

context.

The existing permit contains conditions that must be complied with prior to construction, during operation and once the use ceases. We would expect these conditions to be reflected on permit for the proposed.

The proposed substation forms a fundamental component of the Dundonnell Wind Farm and will contribute to the success of this significant project.

URBIS

RP_01_REV1

DISCLAIMER 17

DISCLAIMER This report is dated 3 May 2017 and incorporates information and events up to that date only and excludes any information arising, or event occurring, after that date which may affect the validity of Urbis Pty Ltd’s

(Urbis) opinion in this report. Urbis prepared this report on the instructions, and for the benefit only, of Tilt Renewables Australia Pty Ltd (Instructing Party) for the purpose of Planning and Land Use Assessment (Purpose) and not for any other purpose or use. To the extent permitted by applicable law, Urbis expressly

disclaims all liability, whether direct or indirect, to the Instructing Party which relies or purports to rely on this report for any purpose other than the Purpose, and to any other person which relies or purports to rely on this report for any purpose whatsoever (including the Purpose).

In preparing this report, Urbis was required to make judgements which may be affected by unforeseen future

events, the likelihood and effects of which are not capable of precise assessment.

All surveys, forecasts, projections and recommendations contained in or assoc iated with this report are made in good faith and on the basis of information supplied to Urbis at the date of this report , and upon which Urbis relied. Achievement of the projections and budgets set out in this report will depend, among other things, on

the actions of others over which Urbis has no control.

In preparing this report, Urbis may rely on or refer to documents in a language other than English, which Urbis may arrange to be translated. Urbis is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of such translations and disclaims any liability for any statement or opinion made in this report being inaccurate or incomplete

arising from such translations.

Whilst Urbis has made all reasonable inquiries it believes necessary in preparing this report, it is not responsible for determining the completeness or accuracy of information provided to it. Urbis (including its officers and personnel) is not liable for any errors or omissions, including in information provided by the

Instructing Party or another person or upon which Urbis relies, provided that such errors or omissions are not made by Urbis recklessly or in bad faith.

This report has been prepared with due care and diligence by Urbis and the statements and opinions given by Urbis in this report are given in good faith and in the reasonable belief that they are correct and not misleading ,

subject to the limitations above.