Ministerial permit: PA2302185

Description of proposal

Removal of 2 x Trees in Glenwest Lane, Winton for the safe operation of a new transformer installed at the AusNet Services Glenrowan Terminal Station. The transformer was installed as part of the Glenrowan Solar Farm Connection Works. The solar farm proponent previously obtained Planning Permit PA2101420 relating to the construction and installation of the transformer and associated connection works. To enable the safe operation of the transformer and based on updated design specifications, AusNet have identified the requirement for these two additional trees to be removed. Specifically, there is a requirement to install a 30m blast radius around the transformer and associated bund. This is because in the event of a pool fire (where the transformer may spill its oil), the oil (or the ignition for the flames) can be anywhere within the bund, and thus separation distances have been extended from the bund, rather than the transformer. The requirement comes from Australian Standard 2067:2016 Substations and High Voltage Installation. AusNet has investigated engineered controls (i.e. fire walls) to enable the retention of the trees however they were not feasible at the site and, vegetation removal is required to enable the safe operation of the 220kV transformer. Refer to attached Report for further information. deprecating