The Project
Eurimbula Project Trust Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of United Green Pty Ltd, are proposing to develop a 696 megawatt photovoltaic solar array, substation, and Battery Energy Storage System, located approximately 7.5 kilometres (km) northeast of the Bororen township. The Project was referred under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) for assessment of potential impacts to Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES).
The Project site, spanning six cadastral parcels, has been strategically chosen due to its proximity to existing power infrastructure and grid access, along with suitable topography for solar development. In addition to encapsulating the development area, it is anticipated the balance of the site is to be secured as a biodiveristy offset for MNES signifianctly impacted by the Project.
Our Approach
e2m was engaged to undertake a desktop assessment and ecological surveys to confirm the presence or assess the likely presence of MNES and associated habitat extents within the Project site. Following a comprehensive desktop assessment to identify potential MNES, targeted, seasonal surveys were undertaken across the Project site. Our assessments identified several MNES, including one threatened Ecological Community and threatened species such as greater glider (central and southern), yellow-bellied glider, Cycas megacarpa, koala and squatter pigeon (southern). Identification of MNES values within the site informed the siting of infrastructure within the site.
Ecological surveys also comprised the assessment of habitat quality for MNES within the development area and potential offset areas within the site to support the development of an Offset Area Management Plan for the Project.
Outcomes
The client received a comprehensive MNES report for the site, summarising desktop, targeted surveys and mapping.
Habitat quality assessments supported the development of a offset strategy, whereby the balance of the Project site acquitted potential impacts to MNES, as well identified opportunities for improved landscape connectivity for threatened species within and surrounding the site.
