Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has ordered a cost review of the $1.5 billion Western Renewables Link (WRL) transmission project immediately after its environment effects statement (EES) was approved by the state’s planning minister.
Carroll ordered an immediate and independent assessment of the project, and said there would be no compulsory land acquisitions while the review was underway.
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“I respect the public’s money. This project was planned almost 10 years ago and Victorian consumers deserve updated, transparent costings,” the premier said in a statement.
“The assessment of the Planning Minister and the conclusion of the EES process is one of several steps to go, including State and Commonwealth agency approvals, and Parliament.
“As it moves along this considered process, Minister Jaclyn Symes has spoken with VicGrid and can reassure the community that no compulsory acquisitions will occur during this time.
The assessment will be complete by the end of the year, and its findings will be made public.”
The controversial Western Renewables Link is a proposed 190km overhead high-voltage electricity transmission line that will carry renewable energy from Bulgana in western Victoria to Sydenham in Melbourne’s north-west.
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The project has faced significant opposition from landholders and locals regarding the potential impact on property values, compulsory land acquisitions, and associated bushfire risks from high-voltage lines.
