Two towers: a comparison of the regulatory regimes which affect new electricity transmission lines and wind farms in Queensland

Two towers: a comparison of the regulatory regimes which affect new electricity transmission lines and wind farms in Queensland

[Abstract]: Wind farms represent a clean and sustainable method of generation of electricity, while high voltage overhead power transmission towers and lines represent the old fashioned approach to transmission of energy. Both share a common characteristic which is their visual impact on the environment. This article looks at two recent developments on the Darling Downs in South East Queensland, one a 75 turbine windfarm, the other a 90 km 330 kilovolt transmission line. The article looks at the regulatory framework which governs both developments in the local and Commonwealth jurisdictions. It draws more general conclusions about the ability of those affected by those developments to gain a merits review of their objections as well as the unequal regulatory playing field which favours the traditional method of electricity transmission as compared to the greener method of electricity generation.

Deposited with permission of publisher.
This article was originally published as follows:
Tranter, Mark (2006). Two towers: a comparison of the regulatory regimes which affect new electricity transmission lines and wind farms in Queensland. Environmental and Planning Law Journal, 23 (5), 351-364. ISSN 0813-300X.

Reproduced with permission by the Lawbook Co, part of Thomson Legal & Regulatory Limited http://www.thomson.com.au

Non-commercial viewing, copying, printing and/or distribution or reproduction of this article or any copy or material portion of the article is permitted on condition that any copy or material portion thereof must contain copyright notice referring 'Copyright (c) 2006 Lawbook Co/Thomson Legal & Regulatory Limited.' Any commercial use of this article or any copy or material portion of the article is strictly prohibited. For commercial use, permission can be obtained from Lawbook Co, Thomson Legal & Regulatory Limited, PO Box 3502, Rozelle NSW 2039. www.thomson.com.au