The Watta Wella Renewable Energy Project is currently in the planning and approvals phase.

EES Referral

The environmental Effects Statement (EES) Referral was lodged with the Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) in August 2022 and can be viewed here. 

The EES Referral is a Victorian State based planning requirement when a project could potentially have significant environmental effects. A written Referral is sent to The Minister for Planning requesting a decision on whether an Environmental Effects Statement (EES) is required. A criteria for determining if a project should be referred is set out in the Environmental Effects Act 1978.

The Minister determined that RES will need to prepare an Environmental Report focusing on:

• Biodiversity impacts (birds and bats, native vegetation and waterways)
• Migration on biodiversity impacts
• Collative effects from existing wind farms in the region.

The Environmental Report needs to be accepted by the Minister before a planning permit application can be made.

EPBC Referral

The Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC) Referral was lodged in August 2022 and can be viewed here. 

The EPBC Act Referral is a Commonwealth planning requirement when a project could have an impact on Matters of National Environmental Significance. A written Referral is sent to The Minister for the Environment requesting a decision as to whether a project will require formal assessment and approval under the EPBC Act.

The minister determined that the Watta Wella Renewable Energy Project will require formal assessment and approval under the EPBC Act. The decision is based on the presence and potential impact on listed threatened species and communities or migratory species within the project area. 

The EPBC act approval is required before a planning permit can be made. 

Work is now underway to conduct further studies required to complete the Environmental Report before submitting an application in early 2025. 

Community Engagement activities will continue to be conducted to provide opportunities for those with an interest in the project to present their views and will assist RES in obtaining an understanding of local community values, needs, aspirations and impacts associated with the project. 

How can I be involved?

RES has commenced consultation with relevant local and state government agencies, local landholders, local businesses, service providers, and community group representatives to better understand community views and perspectives.

We value your input, so if you would like to receive further information and/or organise a time to meet with members of the project team, please get in touch via the Contact Us page.