10/11/05
Changes to the Shire of Denmark’s Town Planning Scheme clears the way for the establishment of wind turbines in Denmark.
In approving the amendment, Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the approval was in accordance with the Government’s commitment to increase the proportion of renewable energy in the South West Interconnected System from one per cent to six per cent by 2010.
“Today’s approval is conditional upon a reduction in the number of turbines originally proposed and the positioning of the turbines to minimise any adverse visual impacts,” the Minister said.
“The location has been chosen, as it offers the best options for wind and access to High Voltage Transmission Lines.
“The decision allows for greater community participation in the local economy through investment in infrastructure and energy facilities.”
In announcing the decision, Ms MacTiernan said the community was evenly divided over the issue, with some arguing the wind farm should be moved inland.
“However, the evidence presented strongly indicated that the ‘energy co-efficient’ on the coastal location was much greater and contributed to the viability of the project,” she said.
“The emergence of opportunities will enhance tourism opportunities similar to those derived from the Albany wind farm and increase technical/education prospects for the community’s youth.
“The technology offers a clean source of renewable power and enhances Denmark’s ‘green’ lifestyle image as a carbon-neutral community.
“This will provide future expansion of employment opportunities around the renewable energy industry.
“Renewable energy is one way of helping protect WA’s unique lifestyle.
“If we, as a society, are going to address emerging greenhouse issues, we need to start making some tough decisions - the wind farm in Albany attracted similar concerns initially but is now generally accepted as a great project.”
Minister's office - 9213 6400
