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🇦🇺 Australia /Energy & Infrastructure

Farmers Fight Battery Storage Proposals on Agricultural Land

From ABC Australia · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Farmers in west Gippsland, Australia, are opposing proposals for battery energy storage systems (BESS) on agricultural land.
  • Companies like Samsung C&T, ZEBRE, and ib vogt are seeking fast-tracked approval for large-scale BESS projects to fill an energy gap left by coal-fired power stations.
  • Local councils and residents express concerns about the loss of productive farmland, environmental impact, and risks associated with industrial facilities on rural land.

Farmers in Victoria's west Gippsland region are raising strong objections to proposals for large-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) planned for agricultural land. James Faithful, who has farmed cattle in Darnum for 11 years, described the proposals as a "horrible proposition" that would remove productive land from use.

This is a horrible proposition

— James FaithfulA local farmer expressed his strong negative reaction upon learning about the proposed battery energy storage system nearby.

Several energy companies are seeking approval for significant BESS projects. Samsung C&T Renewable Energy Australia (SREA) has applied for fast-tracked approval for a 200-megawatt system at Shady Creek. Nearby, ZEBRE plans a 210-megawatt system at Yarragon North, and German company ib vogt is proposing a 360-megawatt system on an 18-hectare site in Trafalgar East. These projects aim to provide grid stability as Victoria's coal-fired power stations shut down.

It's not just about the land that's taken up. It's about the risks that are caused by these facilities, whether it be light, noise, whether it destroys people's visual amenity, the impact on the environment.

— James FaithfulThe farmer elaborated on his concerns, extending beyond land use to include potential risks like light, noise, and environmental impact.

Concerns extend beyond the loss of farmland. Farmers and local councils highlight potential risks, including light and noise pollution, visual impact, and broader environmental consequences. Baw Baw Shire Council, which already hosts a small BESS, is strongly opposing the new proposals. Mayor Kate Wilson stated the council recognizes the need for renewable energy but urges the government to find alternative sites that do not impact farmland, agricultural land, community safety, and environmental protections.

While Baw Baw Shire Council strongly endorses the need for renewable energy and recognises the critical role battery energy storage systems will play in stabilising the grid, we remain concerned about the current approach to their siting and approval.

— Mayor Kate WilsonThe mayor of Baw Baw Shire Council stated the council's position, acknowledging the need for renewables but expressing concern over siting decisions.

While these battery systems will not generate electricity, they will store and discharge energy into the national grid during peak demand periods, utilizing existing high-voltage transmission lines. The companies are attempting to fill a critical void in the energy market following the closure of the Latrobe Valley coal-fired power stations.

We ask that future policy settings and project approvals give due consideration to agricultural land impacts, community safety, and environmental protections, ensuring that host communities share meaningfully in the benefits of Victoria's clean energy future.

— Mayor Kate WilsonThe mayor called for future policies and approvals to consider agricultural impacts, safety, and environmental protections, ensuring communities benefit from the clean energy transition.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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