Alpine Shire Council has resolved to submit a letter of objection to Mint Renewable’s planning proposal for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Dederang.
Mint is proposing to develop a BESS located adjacent to the existing Dederang Terminal Station.
In a statement, the company said, “We are targeting an indicative installed capacity of 400 MWh with an indicative permanent footprint of approximately 4 hectares.
“Where possible, BESS are co-located with or near a network connection point (e.g., next to the Dederang Terminal Station), in order to minimise the need for additional connection infrastructure.”
While the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) is the responsible authority for assessing and determining the outcome of the planning applications, Council has been invited by DTP to submit feedback under Section 52 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
Council says it will now prepare and submit a letter of objection to the Minister for Planning, citing insufficient information, impact on significant landscape, loss of agricultural land, bushfire risk, impact on waterways, impact on community and environment, and economic benefits.
Mayor, Sarah Nicholas said Council carefully considered feedback from the community before making its decision.
“We understand the concerns raised by residents, particularly around the location, fire risk, and the potential impact on the surrounding area,” she said.
“Council is committed to supporting renewable energy and recognises the vital role BESS plays in ensuring reliable energy storage; however in this instance, Council did not feel this particular site was the right fit.
“The potential risks and effects on the local community were key factors in Council’s decision.”
The proposal is currently with the Minister for Planning, who is responsible for making the final decision.
“The next step is for the Minister to review the application and consider submissions from all stakeholders, including Council and the local community.”
The Mayor said Council will be making a submission to the Minister to ensure that the concerns raised by residents – particularly regarding fire risk and emergency management – are clearly represented.
“It’s important that the voices of our community are heard and that safety remains a priority in any future decision-making,” she said.
