Turbines at wind farms across Victoria are being scrutinised as the state’s energy safety regulator conducts and inspection blitz in the wake of a serious turbine blaze near Stawell in May.
The fire at the Bulgana Green Power Hub on May 28 closely followed the collapse of a nacelle in Berrybank in February and a further turbine fire at the Pacific Blue wind farm in Portland on June 28, 2024.
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“These inspections are focused on assessing the condition of turbines to understand and reduce the risk of future incidents as well as correcting any urgent onsite safety issues,” Energy Safe CEO Leanne Hughson said.
Energy Safe enforcement officers are inspecting 160 turbines across 43 sites to assess the operation and maintenance of towers, nacelles, and safety-critical control systems.
Depending on the severity and risk of the faults identified, officers can issue warnings, directions, or infringement notices.
Officers are also educating operators on their safety obligations and Energy Safe expectations, particularly relating to regular maintenance and cleaning of turbine components to reduce the risk of a serious fire incident.
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With more than 1,600 operational wind turbines in Victoria, the operation will also help Energy Safe to identify and target broader issues with compliance and risk mitigation.
In Victoria, wind farm owners and operators have legal obligations relating to safety controls and fire risk mitigation and any breaches could result in maximum penalties of more than $355,000 for an individual and $1,778,000 for a corporation under the Electricity Safety Act 1998.
