N.P. Power proposes to construct and operate a 240 MW wind farm on the eastern shore of Lake Echo, which, if built, will be the largest wind farm in the state.

The proposal has been subject to an environmental impact assessment by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), with one of the key issues being the protection of the endangered Wedge-Tailed Eagle.

Acting Chair of the EPA Board Ian Abernethy said that the Board has referred the proposal to the Central Highlands Council, and has agreed on a series of conditions which must be included in any permit issued by the Council.

“In making its decision, the Board acknowledged that the considerations of potential impacts upon the population of an iconic threatened species, the Wedge-Tailed Eagle, must be considered alongside the very real social and economic benefits of the proposal,” Mr Abernethy said.