Keith Altmann, Woodend
Robin Stewart has asked ‘how will we benefit’ (Opinions, March 26) from the proposed Energy Park in the pine plantation south of Woodend.
The project has been initiated by the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group and now has to proceed through the planning permit process before development.
The Energy Park includes wind/solar/battery energy sources. It has potential to supply lower electricity costs and health impacts than any new coal-fired power. This is essential as we replace aging coal power stations.
The location is close to existing transmission lines and does not impinge on native vegetation.
Given the good wind resource it should satisfy government objectives of lowering electricity prices.
Most importantly it is another step in addressing the existential threat to humanity of climate change.
As a professional engineer, involved in sustainability initiatives in Engineers Australia, I support the planning application process which incorporates a broad range of relevant matters.
It avoids premature judgement until all required application information is available. The planning information allows individuals to make more informed rather than speculative decisions.
Only then can Robin’s question “How will we benefit” be addressed properly.
