For the past two years Noosa Biosphere has worked quietly in the background with representatives of PAGE to influence decision making within the energy provider Powerlink. Noosa media are carrying the story that Powerlink have deferred an outcome for five years and that this is not a definitive settlement of the issue for residents affected.  That is true, however, in such cases a deferment is a win as it buys time for a range of alternate thinking. The official announcement is as follows:

Released from the office of the Minister for Energy and Water Utilities:

"The proposed upgrade of the electricity transmission network supplying the Sunshine Coast and Gympie regions is being deferred until 2019, Acting Energy Minister Phil Reeves said. Mr Reeves said as part of its annual network planning process, Powerlink Queensland has identified temporary change to the power flows into South East Queensland. "This means the need for the proposed Woolooga to Eerwah Vale Transmission Line and Eerwah Vale Substation Project is being deferred by around five years,” he said. "Powerlink is currently consulting with landowners and other key stakeholders directly affected by the proposed Woolooga to Eerwah Vale project to discuss what the deferral means.”

Adoption of the PAGE alternative(s) would have been ideal for everyone and given certainty.  As a mediator I can sympathise with residents when an interim outcome happens.  It means that they have a way to go before knowing one way or another.  But we are dealing with an instrument of government and one which has powers and authority as an essential service provider under legislation.  The decision is not negative to the efforts of PAGE.

So what to do?  The alternative PAGE proposition is still strong and viable.  It remains the best option.  It has good independent expert support.  The Minister’s Office,  the energy regulatory body and Powerlink also know that PAGE put up very good counter arguments based on good research, supporting data from other agencies and highlighted a lack of corporate social responsibility within Powerlink for the environment and people.

Further, the five years allows for even more alternative options to be proven in the areas of less growth, more alternate energy services, climate action outcomes and social consciousness to effect a better decision for everyone down the track.  These have a significant chance to change the original demand modelling and make the PAGE alternative the best choice.

Noosa Biosphere is proud to have been involved in assisting with thinking, negotiating style & approach and directly engaging with Powerlink and government on behalf of the affected residents alongside PAGE. Well done PAGE and we are here to work with you on the next steps.

Regards

Michael Donovan