Next step for Marinus Link

Environmental approvals for Marinus Link, the proposed electricity and telecommunications interconnector between Tasmania and Victoria, are now on public exhibition.

The goal of Marinus Link is to enable electricity to flow between the two states in both directions, delivering low-cost renewable energy for customers in the National Electricity Market (NEM). Under the scheme, excess energy generated on the mainland will be stored in Tasmania’s hydro storage and made available for use when NEM demand outstrips supply.

Tasmania’s renewable energy and storage resources will also be available for use throughout the NEM as a result of the project.

The combined documentation for the draft Commonwealth Environmental Impact Statement and the Victorian Environment Effects Statement (EIS/EES) and draft Planning Scheme Amendment (PSA) is on public exhibition until 12 July 2024.

“Following years of engagement and surveys and studies undertaken by technical experts, both on land and out to sea, it is pleasing to reach this milestone and provide this information about our project to the community,” said Marinus Link Pty Ltd (MLPL) CEO Caroline Wykamp.

“Marinus Link is essential to our renewable energy future, and we are planning to build and operate it in a way that minimises environmental impact. We are confident that our environmental assessment documents support this claim and welcome members of the public to access the documents during the exhibition period.”

During public exhibition, MLPL is hosting a series of drop-in sessions in Gippsland, Victoria, and the Burnie area in North West Tasmania to answer questions and provide information on the documents, the approvals process and how to make a submission.

“We are hosting drop-in sessions along our proposed route tailored for our communities and landholders impacted by the project,” Wykamp said.

“These sessions will include subject matter experts and easy-to-digest fact sheets to assist people with their questions and concerns.”

The combined EIS/EES addresses Commonwealth and Victorian matters, identifies potential impacts and proposes how the project plans to avoid, minimise or manage them.

Requirements under Tasmanian environment and planning legislation will be assessed in two further EISs that are proposed to go on public exhibition later in 2024.

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