We are thrilled to invite you to our upcoming event, 'Renewable Energy in the Illawarra: Considerations for Impact Assessments and Approvals', proudly sponsored by Stantec and Biosis. Building on the vision for a sustainable future fuelled by renewables explored in our inaugural event in 2023, this second instalment promises a deeper exploration into the impact assessment and approvals processes that underlie renewable energy developments in NSW.

Citing examples of successful renewable energy projects both domestically and internationally, the event will draw on valuable lessons for the Illawarra and other regions around the country that are striving to be a hub for renewable energy generation.

We have a fantastic lineup of speakers with diverse expertise in the renewables space:

Jamie McMahon | Technical Director - Environment, AECOM

Jamie will present on his experience working in the UK on some of the world’s largest offshore wind projects. This will include a brief outline of the planning approval process and how it compares to NSW and Australia, with an emphasis on lessons that may be learned at both the regulatory and practical levels. In his capacity as NSW Division committee member, Jamie will also present on the EIANZ submission on the NSW Draft Renewable Energy Guidelines that wer recently consulted on by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.

Dr. Jonathan Botha | Team Leader - Zoology (Victoria), Biosis

Jonathan leads the Victorian Zoology Team at Biosis and has over 10 years of experience in marine ecology, primarily focused on tracking seals and seabirds in south-eastern Australia and abroad. He will present on the Biosis collision risk model and its validation in the onshore environment, with further notes on its value to offshore wind energy projects.

Natasha Larkin | PhD Candidate, University of Wollongong

Natasha is a PhD candidate from the University of Wollongong who is researching the evolution of an offshore wind sector in Australia, with a specific focus on the Illawarra region. She will present her findings highlighting the economic opportunities and constraints at the regional scale, and provide fascinating insights into the specific local setting.

Who Should Attend?

This event would be of interest to anyone interested in the renewable energy transition in Australia, as well as the regulatory process and considerations necessary to make it happen. From industry stakeholders and policymakers to students and academic researchers, all are welcome!

Join us in person (at the Balgownie Hotel) or online (on Zoom) for this hybrid event to expand your knowledge of the regulatory processes that are driving a future for renewables in the NSW context and beyond.

Thank you to our event sponsors

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