Marinus Link has achieved a key Tasmanian milestone to add to its Victorian and Federal approvals from earlier this year.
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has handed down Environmental Assessment Reports (EAR) for the two Tasmanian components of the Marinus Link – the Heybridge shore crossing and Heybridge converter station.
This marks the final step under the Environmental Management and Pollution Control (EMPC) Act 1994 and enables Marinus Link to progress to detailed planning and construction, with a goal of commencing construction on the 1500MW interconnector next year.
The shore crossing will see horizontal directional drilling and cable from the Heybridge converter station extend out across Bass Strait to connect with Victoria. A large converter station complex including two converter stations and a switching station will be built at a cleared site near Minna Road, Heybridge.
“This is another positive step in our environment and planning process, following our primary Commonwealth and Victorian approvals earlier in the year,” Marinus Link chief executive officer Stephanie McGregor said.
“We’re mobilising our team to commence construction next year – these approvals are some of the final steps in that process.”
This is the culmination of an EPA assessment process that began in early 2022, something which Tasmanian Minister for the Environment Madeleine Ogilvie lauded.
“Today’s decision is a testament to the rigorous assessment process undertaken by the EPA, ensuring environmental safeguards meet the highest standards,” she said.
Tasmanian Minister for Energy and Renewables Nick Duigan glowed about the upside of Marinus Link.
“Marinus will deliver lower power prices, create more than 2000 jobs in Tasmania, generate huge economic stimulus, and deliver intergenerational energy infrastructure,” he said.
“It is estimated an additional $470 million will be added to the state’s bottom line each year on average, ensuring we can invest more in hospitals, schools, roads and keep power prices low.”
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