Transgrid is delivering the NSW section of VNI West, a 500kV double-circuit overhead transmission line to connect the electricity grids in NSW and Victoria, unlocking more affordable and cleaner renewable energy for millions of consumers.
The network starts near Jerilderie and continues through to near Swan Hill.
VNI West project director Colin Mayer said insights from local communities and landowners have been instrumental in helping to shape the project to date, and would continue.
“As part of the planning approval process, we have prepared a detailed Environmental Impact Statement to identify and assess the potential environmental, economic and social impacts of the project and outline how they will be addressed,” he said.
“Public exhibition of the Environmental Impact Statement is a major step in the planning process and provides the community, landowners and key stakeholders with the information they need to make an informed submission about the project.
“I encourage all interested parties to review the potential impacts and proposed measures to address them and have their say in a submission to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.”
The EIS includes 18 supporting specialist studies identifying potential impacts in areas such as Aboriginal heritage, biodiversity, visual amenity and bushfire safety as well as outlining proposed measures to avoid or mitigate them.
To support the public exhibition phase, Transgrid will host a series of community information sessions across the project region during August.
The Jerilderie drop-in session is scheduled for next Thursday, August 14 at the Jerilderie Library Monash Room from `10am to 2pm.
The Coleambally drop-in session will be held Monday, August 18 at the Coly Community Hall from 1pm to 5pm.
To view the EIS and make a submission, go to www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects and search SSI-72887208, or use the QR code in the ad on page 5 of this edition. Submissions are open until August 29.
