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ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Waubra Wind Farm BUSHFIRE MITIGATION PLAN (BMP) 2018/2019 Rev 8.2 Date Issued: July 2018

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  • ACCIONA Energy Australia GlobalWaubra Wind Farm

    BUSHFIRE MITIGATION PLAN (BMP)2018/2019

    Rev 8.2

    Date Issued: July 2018

  • JULY 2018 BUSHFIRE MITIGATION PLAN – WAUBRA WIND FARM REV 8.2

    ACCIONA ENERGY AUSTRALIA GLOBAL PTY LTD PAGE 2

    Contents1.0 Overview ...................................................................................................6

    1.1 Preamble ................................................................................................................61.2 Why Prepare this Plan?........................................................................................6

    2.0 Contact Information .................................................................................72.1 Specified Operator ................................................................................................72.2 Person Responsible for the Preparation of the Plan.........................................72.3 Person Responsible for Carrying Out the Plan .................................................72.4 Control Room Emergency Contact .....................................................................8

    2.4.1 Secondary Points of Contact ............................................................................................... 8

    3.0 Bushfire Mitigation Policy .......................................................................93.1 Bushfire Mitigation Policy Statement .................................................................93.2 Objectives of the Bushfire Mitigation Plan.........................................................9

    4.0 Description of Waubra Wind Farm........................................................ 104.1 General Description............................................................................................104.2 Fire Hazard Rating ..............................................................................................104.3 Infrastructure.......................................................................................................10

    4.3.1 Wind Turbines ................................................................................................................... 104.3.2 Underground Power Cables .............................................................................................. 114.3.3 Collector Substations & Collector Switching Station .......................................................... 114.3.4 Overhead Power Lines ......................................................................................................12

    5.0 Bushfire Prevention Strategies and Programmes ............................... 135.1 Risk Management ...............................................................................................135.2 General Site Bushfire Risk.................................................................................135.3 Wind Turbines .....................................................................................................155.4 Underground Power Cables...............................................................................155.5 Collector Substation...........................................................................................155.6 Overhead Power Lines .......................................................................................165.7 Fire Fighting Equipment.....................................................................................16

    6.0 Monitoring Program ...............................................................................176.1 Introduction .........................................................................................................176.2 Operational Environmental Inspection.............................................................176.3 Overhead Line Inspection Plan .........................................................................176.4 Line Inspections..................................................................................................17

    6.4.1 Poles.................................................................................................................................176.4.2 Pole Hardware .................................................................................................................. 186.4.3 Insulators .......................................................................................................................... 186.4.4 Line Hardware................................................................................................................... 186.4.5 Lines .................................................................................................................................18

    6.5 Easement Inspections ........................................................................................186.6 Thermographic Inspections...............................................................................19

    7.0 Training and Competence .....................................................................207.1 Inspectors ............................................................................................................207.2 Internal Auditors .................................................................................................207.3 External Auditors ................................................................................................20

    8.0 Operational Contingency Arrangements..............................................218.1 In the Event of a Bushfire...................................................................................21

  • JULY 2018 BUSHFIRE MITIGATION PLAN – WAUBRA WIND FARM REV 8.2

    ACCIONA ENERGY AUSTRALIA GLOBAL PTY LTD PAGE 3

    8.2 On Days with a Fire Danger Rating of Code Red.............................................218.3 On Days Declared as a Day of Total Fire Ban ..................................................218.4 During the Fire Danger Period...........................................................................21

    9.0 Fire Investigations..................................................................................229.1 Assistance with Fire Investigation Policy Statement......................................229.2 Fire Investigations ..............................................................................................22

    9.2.1 Near Misses ...................................................................................................................... 229.2.2 Actual Bushfire Ignition Incidents....................................................................................... 22

    10.0 Enhancing Public Awareness of Power Lines and Bushfire Risks....2311.0 Management of this Plan .......................................................................24

    11.1 Document Control & Access .............................................................................2411.2 Monitoring & Auditing of the Plan.....................................................................2411.3 Monitoring & Auditing of Inspections...............................................................2611.4 Identifying Deficiencies & Revising the Plan ...................................................26

    11.4.1 Identifying Deficiencies......................................................................................................2611.4.2 Document Review & Timing .............................................................................................. 26

    11.5 Dispute Resolution .............................................................................................27

    Glossary & Abbreviations ..............................................................................28References.......................................................................................................29

    Appendices......................................................................................................30Appendix A – Overview Map of the Waubra Wind Farm..............................................30Appendix B – Requirements for Preparing this Plan ...................................................31

    B1 The Legal Requirement to Prepare this Plan ................................................................................ 31B2 The Form of the Plan.................................................................................................................... 31

    Appendix C – CFA Ratings Explained ...........................................................................33Appendix D - 66 kV Line Inspections.............................................................................35

  • JULY 2018 BUSHFIRE MITIGATION PLAN – WAUBRA WIND FARM REV 8.2

    ACCIONA ENERGY AUSTRALIA GLOBAL PTY LTD PAGE 4

    Document History and Status

    Revision Date issued Reviewed by Approved by Dateapproved Revision type

    Rev 0.1 12-12-2008 Peter Duddy Jason Watson 12-12-2008 Draft for comment

    Rev 1.0 21-02-2009 Peter Duddy Jason Watson 21-02-2009 First release

    Rev 2.0 29-06-2010 Sam Fyfield Jason Watson 29-06-2010 Second release

    Rev 3.0 01-06-2011 Glenn Wright Alba Ruiz Leon 01-06-2011 Third release

    Rev 4.0 21-09-2011 Glenn Wright/ SamFyfield

    Alba Ruiz Leon 21-09-2011 Fourth release.Updates due tofeedback from ESV

    Rev 5.0 02-10-12 Melanie Robertson Eric Caesar 02-10-2012 Fifth Release

    Rev 6.0 20-10-13 Melanie Robertson Eric Caesar 20 -10-2013

    Draft for comment

    Rev 6.1 22-10-13 Melanie Robertson Eric Caesar 22 -10-2013

    Sixth Release

    Rev 7.0 24-6-14 Melanie Robertson Eric Caesar Seventh Release

    Rev 7.1 15-5-15 Melanie Robertson Eric Caesar 15-5-15 Minor Updates afterESV AuditRemoval of Referencesto Melbourne ControlRoom and AEO.Replaced with ControlRoom and AEAG

    Rev 8.0 09/09/2016 Cameron Stowe Eric Caesar 09/09/2016 Updates from versionfour (004) of the“Electricity Safety(Bushfire mitigation)Regulations 2013Version 004, 01 May2016.Minor updates from2015 audit.Update contact details.

    Rev 8.1 15/05/2017 Cameron Stowe Eric Caesar 15/05/2017 2017-2018Submission

    1. ABN updated

    Rev 8.2 01/07/2018 Cameron Stowe Eric Caesar 01/07/2018 2018-2019 submissionUpdates: Nil

    Distribution of Copies

    Revision CopyFormat Quantity Issued to

    Rev 8.2 Electronic(PDF) 1 Energy Safe Victoria (ESV)

    Rev 8.2 Electronic(PDF) 1 Waubra Wind Farm Compliance Database

    Rev 8.2 Paper 1 Waubra Wind Farm Maintenance Facility

    Rev 8.2 Paper 1 Acciona Energy Australia Global Head Office –Melbourne

    Printed: 5 September 2018

    Last saved: 5 September 2018 12:26 PM

  • JULY 2018 BUSHFIRE MITIGATION PLAN – WAUBRA WIND FARM REV 8.2

    ACCIONA ENERGY AUSTRALIA GLOBAL PTY LTD PAGE 5

    File name: Waubra Bushfire Mitigation Plan Rev 8.2 2018-2019.docx

    Author: Cameron Stowe

  • JULY 2018 BUSHFIRE MITIGATION PLAN – WAUBRA WIND FARM REV 8.2

    ACCIONA ENERGY AUSTRALIA GLOBAL PTY LTD PAGE 6

    1.0 Overview

    1.1 PreambleACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd (ACCIONA Energy) operates the Waubra WindFarm. This wind farm is located approximately 35 km northwest of Ballarat, near the townof Waubra, on open agricultural land that is used predominately for grazing and cropping.

    The wind farm comprises 128 turbines with a combined power generation capacity of192 MW. The electrical power generated by the wind turbines is reticulated throughunderground, 12 kV power cables (approximately 95 km) to five collector substationslocated at various strategic points around the wind farm. From the collector substationsoverhead, 66 kV power lines (approximately 19 km) are used to bring the electrical powerto a single collector switching station where the wind farm’s electrical power is aggregatedand finally delivered to AusNet Services adjacent terminal station for connection into their220 kV transmission line.

    An overview plan of the wind farm infrastructure, including the extent of overhead electriclines, is illustrated in Appendix A.

    1.2 Why Prepare this Plan?Victoria is one of the most fire-prone areas in the world1. As with any electrical installationthe operation of the Waubra Wind Farm has the potential to ignite fires. Any ignition offire within the wind farm has the potential to increase the risk of bushfire. Consequentlymitigation measures need to be developed and put into effect to reduce this risk as far asis reasonably practicable.

    ACCIONA Energy has developed this Bushfire Mitigation Plan (BMP) as a part of its overallOperational Environmental Management Plan (OEMP) for the wind farm in line with theprincipals set out in the Wind Farm Operations Manual2. It has been prepared inaccordance with the Electricity Safety Act 1998 (the Act) and the subordinate ElectricitySafety (Bushfire Mitigation) Regulations 2013 version 004, 01 May 2016 (the Regulations)and is complemented by ACCIONA Energy’s Electric Line Clearance Management Plan(ELCMP).

    The overall objective of this BMP is to minimise the risk of bushfires as a result of theoperation of the Waubra Wind Farm. It includes (but is not limited to) the procedures,standards, codes and guidelines that ACCIONA Energy employs to mitigate bushfire risk.

    While the Regulations focus on “at risk electric lines” ACCIONA Energy recognises thatthere is also risk of fire ignition from other electrical assets associated with the WaubraWind Farm including the equipment within the wind turbines and the collector substations.This BMP therefore exceeds the scope required by the Act and Regulations and addressesthe mitigation of fire ignition risk for all wind farm electrical assets.

    1 Country Fire Authority Victoria website http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au . Accessed 17 October 20132 Refer to OM003 Wind Farm Operations Manual. Acciona Energy 2011.

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    2.0 Contact Information

    2.1 Specified Operator

    Name ACCIONA Energy Australia Global PtyLtd(ABN 54 600 910 647)

    Address Level 12, Freshwater Place2 Southbank BoulevardSOUTHBANK Victoria 3006

    Phone 03 9027 1000

    Website www.acciona.com.au

    2.2 Person Responsible for the Preparation of the Plan

    Name Cameron Stowe

    Position Site Manager – Waubra Wind Farm

    Address Waubra Wind Farm Maintenance Facility275 Harrisons RoadWAUBRA Victoria 3352

    Phone 03 534313 4420

    Mobile 0439 341270

    Email [email protected]

    2.3 Person Responsible for Carrying Out the Plan

    Name Eric Caesar

    Position General Manager - Operations

    Address Level 12, Freshwater Place2 Southbank BoulevardSOUTHBANK Victoria 3006

    Phone 03 9027 1000

    e-mail [email protected]

  • JULY 2018 BUSHFIRE MITIGATION PLAN – WAUBRA WIND FARM REV 8.2

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    2.4 Control Room Emergency Contact

    Name Control Room

    Position On Duty Control Room Operator

    Phone 1300 515 345

    Hours 24/7

    2.4.1 Secondary Points of Contact

    Fall back emergency contact points are as follows...

    Name Cameron Stowe

    Position Site ManagerWaubra Wind Farm

    Address Waubra Wind Farm Maintenance Facility275 Harrisons RoadWAUBRA Victoria 3352

    Phone 03 534313 4420

    Mobile 043 934 1270

    Email [email protected]

  • JULY 2018 BUSHFIRE MITIGATION PLAN – WAUBRA WIND FARM REV 8.2

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    3.0 Bushfire Mitigation Policy

    3.1 Bushfire Mitigation Policy StatementACCIONA Energy adopts a best practice approach to health, safety and the environmentfor all its business activities. ACCIONA Energy is committed to protecting its employeesand affected stakeholders (including contractors, visitors and the public) by minimisingand, where possible, eliminating health, safety and environmental risks.3

    Fire ignition and any resultant fire (structure fire or bushfire) is a significant threat to life,property and the environment. ACCIONA Energy is committed to the mitigation and,where possible, elimination of fire ignition risks arising from our operations.

    ACCIONA Energy is committed to the effective implementation of this BMP and itsassociated ELCMP so as to eliminate fire ignition risk as far as is reasonably practicable.

    The implementation of this BMP and its associated ELCMP will be achieved through avariety of procedures, inspections and regular reviews. It is the responsibility of theGeneral Manager - Operations to ensure that the objectives of this plan are achieved in atimely and efficacious manner.

    3.2 Objectives of the Bushfire Mitigation PlanThe primary objective of ACCIONA Energy’s BMP is to eliminate fire ignition risks in all ouroperations through the;

    Elimination of ignition sources, and

    Maintenance of the necessary separation between potential ignitionsources and any flammable material.

    Specifically the BMP provides a management framework for the Waubra Wind Farm for;

    Reducing the risk of fires and power interruptions,

    Protecting the health and safety of the local community,

    Ensuring safe clearances are achieved and maintained, and

    Minimising the environmental impacts of our mitigation activities.

    The minimum vegetation line clearances will be meet, as per the Code ofPractise for Electric Line Clearances.

    Acciona Energy is committed to safe, secure and sound operation of itsassets.

    3 Refer to “Acciona Energy Health, Safety and Environment Policy”. 29 May 2012.

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    4.0 Description of Waubra Wind Farm

    4.1 General DescriptionThe Waubra Wind Farm is located in western Victoria, near Waubra approximately 35 kmnorthwest of Ballarat. The area comprises cultivated farm land, predominantly used forgrazing and cropping (mostly cereal grains and potatoes). There is little to no forest withinthe Waubra Wind Farm itself apart from isolated trees and windbreaks but there are largeforested areas in the region at large.

    4.2 Fire Hazard RatingIn accordance with Section 80 of the Act the Country Fire Authority (CFA) is responsiblefor making determinations of Fire Hazard Rating4. The CFA has determined that the FireHazard Rating of the region is “High”5. Consequently the Waubra Wind Farm is in a“hazardous bushfire risk area” and all overhead power lines are deemed to be “at-riskelectric lines”.

    4.3 InfrastructureThe wind farm comprises 128 turbines with a combined power generation capacity of192 MW. The electrical power generated by the wind turbines is reticulated troughunderground, 12 kV power cables (approximately 95 km) to five collector substationslocated at various strategic points around the wind farm. From the collector substationsoverhead, 66 kV power lines (approximately 19 km) are used to bring the electrical powerto a single collector switching station where the wind farm’s electrical power is aggregatedand finally delivered to AusNet Services adjacent terminal station for connection into their220 kV transmission line.

    ACCIONA Energy is cognisant that it is not just our overhead power lines that introduce afire ignition hazard. This BMP also considers the hazards introduced by our undergroundpower cables, collector substations & collector switching station and the wind turbinesthemselves.

    An overview plan of the wind farm infrastructure, including the extent of overhead electriclines, is illustrated in Appendix A.

    4.3.1 Wind Turbines

    The wind turbines convert the energy in the wind into electrical power. They comprise arotor and nacelle mounted on tall, tapered steel towers (either 72 m or 80 m tall).

    The electrical generator itself is located within the nacelle at the top of the tower andoperates at 12 kV. Other control and utility circuits also operate within the nacelle but atlower voltages. A large mechanical gearbox and hydraulic circuits with their associatedhydraulic fluids and lubricating greases and oils are also located within the nacelle.

    A transformer is used to step-down the 12 kV to the lower voltages used in the controland utility circuits. This transformer and the wind turbine’s high voltage switchgear arelocated within the tower (at or near ground level). The transformers are air cooled andthe high voltage switchgear is fused and insulated with SF6 gas.

    The steel towers are approximately 5 m in diameter at ground level, thick walled(> 20 mm) and solidly bonded to a comprehensive earth-grid that is buried in the groundaround the wind turbine and its foundation.

    4 Refer to Appendix B for an explanation of Fire Hazard Ratings.5 Fire Hazard Ratings for the Electricity Safety Act 1998 - Edition 2013. Country Fire Authority (DVD)

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    The likelihood of fire ignition from the wind turbine is minimal. In the unlikely event of afire within the wind turbine tower the fire should be contained within the tower itself. Afire in the nacelle is also unlikely but, should it occur, a nacelle fire may not be containedwithin the nacelle and would then become a fire ignition source to the area surroundingthe wind turbine.

    4.3.2 Underground Power Cables

    The underground power cables collect the electrical power from small groups of windturbines (typically 5 to 7 wind turbines in each group). These underground power cablesoperate at 12 kV – the same voltage as the wind turbines. Each group of wind turbineshas its own electrical circuit/cable which is switched by dedicated gas insulated circuitbreakers housed within the switching room of the collector substation.

    The underground power cables are buried in trenches at a depth of approximately 0.8 m.Protective plates and warning tapes are laid at various depths to protect the cable andwarn diggers of the presence of the cable. The cables themselves are heavily insulated,armoured and shielded.

    There is a total of approximately 95 km of underground power cables within the WaubraWind Farm.

    The likelihood of fire ignition from the underground power cables is close to zero: only amechanical break into a live conductor (e.g. when digging) could act as a fire ignitionsource.

    4.3.3 Collector Substations & Collector Switching Station

    The collector substations collect together the underground cables from groups of windturbines to a single point so that it can be stepped up to a higher voltage (66 kV) and thenconnected to the collector switching station via overhead power lines. There are fivecollector substations spread across the wind farm. The groups of wind turbines that feedinto each collector substation form a “section” of the wind farm (i.e. there are 5 sections).

    The collector switching station brings all the overhead lines from all five sections of thewind farm together at a single point. This allows the entire wind farm to be connected toTransmission Network via AusNet Services Terminal Station from a single point and actsas the “master switch” of the whole wind farm. There is only one collector switchingstation on the wind farm. It is co-located with Collector Substation 3 and is immediatelyadjacent to SP AusNet’s Terminal Station.

    The collector substations consist of a control building and a transformer yard. The 12 kVcircuit breakers for each underground cable are housed within the control building. Thetransformer, circuit breakers and other protection equipment are all located within thetransformer yard. The control equipment for all the equipment within the collectorsubstation is located within the control building.

    The Collector Switching Station consists only of a switching yard which is adjacent to thetransformer yard of Collector Substation 3. The circuit breakers, isolators and otherprotection equipment are all located within the switching yard. The control equipment forall the Collector Switching Station equipment is co-located in the control building ofCollector Substation 3.

    The transformers are oil cooled and fully bunded to stop the spreading of oil or fire.Ignition of fire from the transformers is possible but unlikely to spread. The high voltageswitchgear within the transformer yard is fully enclosed and insulated with SF6 gas.Control and equipment is fully enclosed and the likelihood of fire ignition is minimal.

  • JULY 2018 BUSHFIRE MITIGATION PLAN – WAUBRA WIND FARM REV 8.2

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    4.3.4 Overhead Power Lines

    Acciona Energy operates a total of approximately 19 km of overhead power lines as a partof the Waubra Wind Farm. All the overhead power lines operate at 66 kV either as singlecircuit or double circuit.

    All overhead power lines are mounted on CCA6-treated, timber poles. The poles areapproximately 14 m high for single circuit lines and 18 m high for double circuit lines. Theconductors are mounted on insulators which are in turn mounted on galvanized steel cross-arms that are attached to the top of the poles. A fibre optic cable is mounted on a catenaryapproximately 4 m below the conductors and an earth wire is mounted a further 0.6 mbelow this. The clearance to ground level underneath the earth wire is variable butgenerally 6 - 7½ m.

    The overhead power lines all use bare Iodine7 as a conductor.

    ACCIONA Energy does not operate any pole mounted switchgear or transformers as a partof the Waubra Wind Farm.

    All Waubra Wind Farm overhead lines are managed by the ELCMP.

    It should be noted that this BMP addresses only the 66 kV overhead power lines that areowned by and under the control of ACCIONA Energy. ACCIONA Energy is not responsiblefor the 220 kV transmission line and terminal station (part of AusNet Services transmissionnetwork) nor is it responsible for the numerous overhead power lines that provide suppliesto the various retail customers in the local area (part of Powercor Australia’s distributionnetwork). The overhead lines that are part of the transmission and distribution networksare the subject of separate Bushfire Mitigation Plans controlled and implemented byothers.

    6 CCA = Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA) is a wood preservative routinely used to protect it against damagefrom bacteria, fungus and insects.7 Iodine = 7 strands of 4.75mm AAAC 1120 (All Aluminium Alloy Conductor manufactured to AS1531).

  • JULY 2018 BUSHFIRE MITIGATION PLAN – WAUBRA WIND FARM REV 8.2

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    5.0 Bushfire Prevention Strategies and Programmes

    5.1 Risk ManagementThis BMP and its associated ELCMP, provides specific strategies and programmes for theprevention of bushfires caused by the operation of the Waubra Wind Farm. This sectionlists the preventative strategies and programmes that ACCIONA Energy will adopt tomitigate the risk of bushfire. The works required for each strategy are outlined.

    The strategies and programmes are guided by an overarching health, Safety andEnvironment risk management approach known as “Play It SAFE” –

    Spot the hazard, Assess the Risk, F ix the Problem, and Evaluate the Results

    Methods for the identification, assessment and control of potential bushfire hazardsinclude:

    Site specific Risk Register,

    Task and plant based risk assessments,

    Hazard reporting tool,

    Emergency control organisation and liaison with Country Fire Authority,

    Environmental Management Plan – monitoring activities

    Bushfire risks are managed as per the hierarchy of controls. Where elimination of bushfirerisk is not possible, a number of engineering and compliance activities have beenimplemented and supported by an Internal Inspection program.

    Specific bushfire prevention controls are outlined in the following sections.

    5.2 General Site Bushfire RiskACCIONA Energy has identified that our “at-risk electric lines” pose a fire ignition hazardresulting from:

    Person(s) and/or equipment encroaching into the “No-Go Zone”, Vegetation growing into the clearance zone, and Failure of a conductor, pole and/or pole attachment hardware (e.g. pole fires

    caused by insulator failure, live conductors falling to earth etc.).

    As explained in sections 1.2 and 4.3 above, other assets of the Waubra Wind Farm presenta fire ignition hazard. This includes:

    Person(s) and/or equipment encroaching into the “No-Go Zone” of theCollector Substations,

    Vegetation growth within Collector Substations (potentially encroaching onclearance zones),

    Catastrophic failure of the equipment within the Collector Substations (e.g.transformer explosion, circuit breaker explosion etc.),

    Wind turbine fire, and Open air operational activities (e.g. vehicle exhausts welding, grinding and

    other hot works etc).

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    Mitigation strategies adopted to fix the problem include;

    Designing Collector Substations, the Collector Switching Station and thewind turbine sites according to Australian Standards so as to have intrinsicfire mitigation strategies built into them.

    Collector Substations, the Collector Switching Station and the wind turbinesites kept clear of unnecessary flammable substances such as packaging,rubbish and other work materials as a requirement of work permits.

    Collector Substations, the Collector Switching Station inspected every 4months and wind turbine sites inspected every 6 months by a competentAcciona employee.

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    5.3 Wind TurbinesThe surrounds of all turbines will be kept clear of flammable substances.

    A two metre surround for all turbine towers are covered with crushed rockto reduce the growth of vegetation and provide safe step and touchpotentials. The reduced growth of vegetation is achieved by annual grassand weed spraying.

    The wind turbines are located on land that is predominantly used for grazingand cropping. The grass for grazing is kept short by the livestock and thecropping tends to be potatoes and cereal grains.

    Each wind turbine is to be inspected every year before the first of Novemberto ensure the crushed rock/gravel area is clear of vegetation and otherflammable items (e.g. packaging, rubbish, oil containers, etc).

    o If items posing a fire risk are noted during such an inspection thenarrangements must be made for their removal as soon as isreasonably practicable is reasonably practicable (in this case beforethe first of December of that calendar year).

    At the completion of any work undertaken in a turbine or tower, personnelare to visually inspect the crushed rock/gravel area and remove anyflammable non-plant items (e.g. packaging, rubbish, oil containers, etc).

    o If items posing a fire risk are identified during such an inspection,then arrangements must be made for its removal as soon as isreasonably practicable (in this case before the first of December ofthat calendar year or immediately on declaration of a day of TotalFire Ban).

    5.4 Underground Power CablesAccess to the area around all underground power cables will be restricted and any worksin the vicinity of any cable will be controlled through a permit system.

    All underground cables are accurately surveyed and routes marked withdelineator posts.

    Any work involving excavations is controlled by work permit system andprocedures are in place to further control any work within 6.4 m of anyunderground cable route.

    5.5 Collector SubstationThe transformer yards of all Collector Substations will be kept clear of flammablesubstances, except during maintenance periods being undertaken by work order permit.An example of this exception is during transformer maintenance for oil replacement or topup.

    The yards of all Collector Substations are covered with crushed rock and/orbitumen to reduce the growth of vegetation.

    A reduced fuel area, 4 m wide, is maintained around the exterior ofperimeter fence of the Collector Substations. This is achieved by annualgrass and weed spraying.

    Collector Substation screening vegetation has been planted with sufficientclearance from overhead line routes and perimeter fences (i.e. not underoverhead power lines or able to encroach into the reduced fuel area).

    Conductors are spaced so that they cannot clash. Each Collector Substation is inspected 3 times per year to ensure the

    transformer yard is clear of vegetation and other flammable non-plant items(e.g. packaging, rubbish, etc).

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    o If items posing a fire risk are noted during these inspections thenarrangements are made for their removal as soon as is reasonablypracticable.

    At the completion of any work undertaken within a Collector Substation,personnel are required to visually inspect the yard and remove anyflammable non-plant items (e.g. packaging, rubbish, oil containers, etc).

    o If items posing a fire risk are identified during these inspections thenarrangements are made for its removal as soon as is reasonablypracticable (in this case before the first of December of that calendaryear or immediately on declaration of the Fire Danger Period).

    5.6 Overhead Power LinesThe 66kV overhead lines will be kept clear of flammable substances.

    This is achieved through implementation of the ELCMP and regular inspections (refer tothe section Error! Reference source not found. on page 16).

    Any work within 6.4 m of any overhead power line is controlled by work permit systemand special procedures are put place to further control any ignition risk.

    5.7 Fire Fighting EquipmentFirefighting equipment adequate to enable small fires to be extinguished is provided in allvehicles and collector substations.

    All ACCIONA Energy service vehicles will carry:o One 2.5 kg, ABE powder-type, stored pressure fire extinguisher

    (externally mounted – for fires in vehicles and wind turbine base),o One 1 kg, ABE powder-type, stored pressure fire extinguisher

    (as part of the tools/equipment taken into the nacelle wheneverpersonnel are in the wind turbines – for fires in wind turbine),

    o One 9 L, water type, stored pressure fire extinguisher(externally mounted – for grass fires), and

    o One steel rake and shovel(externally mounted – for grass fires).

    All collector substations will hold (as a minimum):o One 5 kg ABE powder-type, stored pressure fire extinguisher

    Firefighting is only to be attempted by personnel after they have reported the fire andthen only if it is safe to do so.

    Personnel shall have completed the following training, which shall be refreshed every 2years.

    Global Wind Organisation (GWO) ‘Fire Awareness’ training whichcomprises of the following competencies.

    o Legislation;o Risks & hazards;o Fire combustion and fire spread;o Fire extinguishing;o Fire prevention;o Firefighting equipment in a wind turbine;o Fire extinguisher usageo Scenario-based practice exercise.

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    6.0 Monitoring Program

    6.1 IntroductionThe following Inspections are conducted as per the Pre-Summer Bushfire PreventionMonitoring Program. Inspections and compliance activities are monitored via an onlinemaintenance schedule program.

    6.2 Operational Environmental InspectionEnvironmental Inspections that support the Waubra Operational EnvironmentalManagement Plan are conducted and recorded twice a year. These are specific promptsfor observations supporting Wildfire Prevention and management.

    6.3 Overhead Line Inspection PlanThe 66 kV overhead power lines are periodically inspected as per operational procedure‘5.2.3 66 kV Inspections’ as set out in the Wind Farm Operations Manual OM0038.

    The periodic inspections will be defined as:

    Line Inspection Easement Inspection Thermographic Inspection

    All these inspections will be completed annually according to the following timeframe:

    Inspection Inspect During... Report During...

    Line Inspection August – September October

    Pre Summer Easement Inspection August – September October

    Thermographic Inspection August – September October

    6.4 Line InspectionsLine inspections are completed pole by pole and inspect following components:

    Poles Pole Hardware Insulators Line Hardware Line

    The inspector is required to

    Identify any defects; Rate the condition of the key components; and Compare identified defects with the known defects and reassess the priority

    of the known defects.

    6.4.1 Poles

    Inspection of the pole itself in comprises a visual inspection of the:

    8 A copy of the current version of this procedure is included at Appendix D.

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    alignment and position of the pole; pole for signs of decay; area surrounding the pole for

    o degradation of the support base for the pole;o impact on the decay of the pole.

    Core samples of wooden poles will be undertaken as and when required.

    6.4.2 Pole Hardware

    Pole hardware is defined as the additional structure or components required to supportthe insulators, line hardware and line. Inspection of the pole hardware comprises a visualinspection of the:

    alignment and position of the pole hardware; pole hardware for signs of decay.

    6.4.3 Insulators

    Insulators are defined as the insulating hardware supporting the line and line hardwarefrom the pole and pole hardware. Inspection of the insulators comprises a visualinspection of the:

    alignment and position of the insulators; insulators for:

    o damage;o foreign objects and contamination.

    Any foreign objects or damaged or missing insulators will immediately be reported as adefect Work Order.

    6.4.4 Line Hardware

    Line hardware is defined as the hardware connected to the line and at the operatingvoltage of the line. Inspection of the line hardware comprises a visual inspection of the:

    alignment and position of the line hardware; line hardware for:

    o damage;o for foreign objects and contamination.

    Any foreign objects or damaged or missing line hardware will immediately be reported asa defect Work Order.

    6.4.5 Lines

    Line is defined as the primary conductor. Inspection of the line comprises a visualinspection of the:

    alignment and position of the line; line for:

    o damage;o foreign objects and contamination.

    Any foreign objects, damaged or missing line will immediately be reported as a defectWork Order.

    6.5 Easement InspectionsInspection of the overhead power line easements will be completed by Easement Section.Each Easement Section is defined to the nearest pole and to the width of the easement.

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    The inspector inspects the vegetation and assigns a Condition Rating for each EasementSection. Where the clearance cannot be confidently determined using visual and non-contact techniques, a hot stick measurement will be taken. The worst rating for theEasement Section will be taken as the Condition Rating for the section as a whole.

    Where the Condition Rating of the Easement Section is 50% or below, a Work Order for acorrective action will be created and work prioritised accordingly (poorest rating hashighest corrective action rating).

    The easement inspection and any vegetation removal must be completed by persons withthe relevant qualifications.

    Field assessors;

    Cutter working from EWP;

    Ground crew;

    Specialised plant operator and

    Tree climber

    Refer to the Electrical Line Clearance Management Plan (ELCMP) for more detail.

    6.6 Thermographic InspectionsA thermographic inspection of the overhead power lines and line hardware will beundertaken to identify abnormal temperatures utilising a thermographic camera (still orvideo). These inspections will be conducted with the line under at least 25% annual peakloading.

    The thermographic inspector must have a minimum of 5 years’ experience inthermographic inspections and report writing.

    Upon detection of an abnormal temperature, the following information is collected:

    Identifier, location and description of the equipment and its components; The current through the equipment at the time of survey; The relative temperature rise in degrees centigrade of the abnormally

    heated equipment/component above that of associated normally operatingequipment;

    Relative temperature rise in degrees centigrade of the abnormally heatedequipment/component over the same equipment/component of the otherphases of the same circuit;

    Electronic file of thermographic image of the equipment/component; Electronic file of photographic image of the equipment/component; Details of other observed unusual conditions of the equipment; Estimated emissivity factor for the abnormally heated

    equipment/component, and

    All abnormal temperatures will be subject to a Peak Temperature Rise Calculation toprovide a more accurate risk assessment. Corrective work orders will be created andprioritised according this risk assessment (greatest risk has highest priority).

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    7.0 Training and CompetenceAcciona Energy has an overarching Personal Induction and Training Procedure whichdefines processes for identifying training needs & competencies and record keeping.Acciona uses a web based tool to record and monitor its training requirements.

    7.1 InspectorsThe implementation of the BMP and associated ELCMP relies on part on the competenceof inspectors. This section describes the processes and procedure Acciona Energy uses toensure the competence of inspectors and auditors.

    Inspectors are either an ACCIONA Energy employee or subcontractor who:

    Is trained in line inspection; Has satisfactorily completed a ‘Cert II in ESI – Asset Inspection – UET20612’

    within the last three years; Has satisfactorily completed a ‘Cert II in ESI – Powerline Vegetation Control

    – UET20312’ , and Is authorised by ACCIONA Energy to inspection lines.

    The inspector/s will be required to produce evidence of the above (e.g. present trainingcertificates etc.) prior to commencing the work.

    7.2 Internal AuditorsAn internal audit system is used to monitor the continuing competence of inspectors.Approximately 5% of the inspection will be randomly selected for internal audit. Theinternal auditor will be qualified as above. The internal auditor is not to have been involvedin the initial inspection and will conduct the internal audit inspection according to thenormal inspection procedure.

    If a major discrepancy is found in the audited inspections then the entire inspection shallbe repeated. Additionally, the initial inspector would be required to undertake a refreshercourse before undertaking any further inspections for ACCIONA Energy.

    7.3 External AuditorsIn addition to the inspections described above, a separate inspection will be completed atleast every 5 years by an independent, industry qualified pole inspector (external auditor)who:

    Is trained in line inspection, Has satisfactorily completed an Assets Inspection training course approved

    by Energy Safe Victoria (when available), and Is authorised by ACCIONA Energy to inspect lines.

    If a major discrepancy is found by the external auditor inspections then:

    the initial inspector and internal auditor may be required to undertake arefresher course before undertaking any further inspections for ACCIONAEnergy; and

    any other inspections undertaken by the initial inspector and internal auditorshall be repeated unless they been reviewed by the external auditor.

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    8.0 Operational Contingency ArrangementsThis section sets out the way in which the wind farm will be operated or maintenanceactivities undertaken in various contingencies.

    8.1 In the Event of a BushfireIn the event of a bushfire in the area, ACCIONA Energy will, where appropriate, bring allstaff back from the wind farm site to the Maintenance Facility and potentially send themhome (i.e. evacuate the site)9. The procedure is covered in the Emergency Response Planfor the Waubra Wind Farm. This document is part of ACCIONA Energy Safety (orIntegrated) Management System.

    The site will be operated remotely, via the Control Room. Instructions to the Waubra WindFarm by emergency services, including the evacuation of site, shutdown and de-energisation of plant will be automatically redirected to the Control Room.

    Electric safety devices, such as line, transformer and turbine protection relays, will ensurethat the plant is shut down in the event of smoke or flames interfering with the wind farm.

    8.2 On Days with a Fire Danger Rating of Code RedIn the event of a Fire Danger Rating of Code Red being declared for the area, ACCIONAEnergy will instruct staff to remain at the Waubra Wind Farm Maintenance Facility.

    The site will be operated, via the Waubra SCADA system. Instructions to the Waubra WindFarm by emergency services, including the evacuation of site, shutdown and de-energisation of plant will be undertaken at site if safe to do so.

    Electric safety devices, such as line, transformer and turbine protection relays, will ensurethat the plant is shut down in the event of smoke or flames interfering with the wind farm.

    8.3 On Days Declared as a Day of Total Fire BanThe operation of the Waubra Wind Farm will continue as normal during days of Total FireBan (Country Fire Authority Act, 195810). However maintenance activities will be alteredsuch that:

    Vehicle travel will be confined to public and wind farm roadways, and Hot work is not permitted (except where required in emergency

    circumstances such as catastrophic plant failure).

    Mitigation procedures described in this BMP ensure that all facilities can be operated andmaintained without significantly increasing the risk of starting a bushfire.

    8.4 During the Fire Danger PeriodThe operation of the Waubra Wind Farm will continue as normal during declared FireDanger Periods. However maintenance activities will be altered such that:

    Vehicle travel will be confined to public and wind farm roadways whereverpracticable, and

    Hot work shall be restricted (via Hot Work Permits) and appropriateprecautions adopted to minimise the risk of fire.

    9 It needs to be recognised that there will be some circumstances in which it would be safer for staff to remainwhere they are on the site rather than travelling back to the Maintenance Facility or be sent home because ofthe risks involved in travelling through areas under direct fire attack.10 Country Fire Authority Act 1958. Refer also to http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/can/

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    Mitigation procedures described in this BMP ensure that all facilities can be operated andmaintained without significantly increasing the risk of starting a bushfire.

    9.0 Fire Investigations

    9.1 Assistance with Fire Investigation Policy StatementACCIONA Energy will provide all practical assistance to fire control authorities investigatingbushfires in the vicinity of the Waubra Wind Farm. This will include:

    Allocating authorised staff to accompany Fire Investigators investigating anypotential/suspected ignition sources within the wind farm;

    Providing technical details relating to the fire initiating potential of variousitems of plant;

    Providing access to bushfire related policies and procedures; and Accepting recommendations from CFA for improvement as required.

    9.2 Fire Investigations

    9.2.1 Near Misses

    Following an event that could have led to a bushfire (near miss), ACCIONA Energy willundertake the following process within 20 business days (except for the replacement orupgrade to equipment requiring long lead time procurement) to ensure the organizationimplements the appropriate measures to mitigate an event occurring.

    Identify the cause/source of the potential ignition; Investigate and document:

    o The circumstances leading up to the potential ignition;o Reasonably practicable changes that can be made that will mitigate

    similar events recurring to: To the design of the item of plant involved in the potential

    ignition (e.g. intrinsic design changes, clearancerequirements, vegetation control requirements etc); and/or

    To the operations and maintenance procedures that led to thepotential ignition; and

    Implement the appropriate combination of plant/procedural changes thatwill mitigate similar events recurring.

    9.2.2 Actual Bushfire Ignition Incidents

    Following a bushfire event in the area of Waubra Wind Farm, ACCIONA Energy willcooperate with the CFA and other fire control authorities to investigate the cause of thefire. Where it is determined that the operations of the Waubra Wind Farm contributed tothe ignition of the bushfire or hindered firefighting efforts, ACCIONA Energy will undertakethe following process within 20 business days (except for the replacement or upgrade toequipment requiring long lead time procurement) to ensure the organization implementsthe appropriate measures to mitigate an event occurring:

    Identify the cause/source of the ignition; Investigate and document:

    o The circumstances leading up to the ignition;o Reasonably practicable changes that can be made that will mitigate

    similar events recurring to:

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    To the design of the item of plant involved in the potentialignition (e.g. intrinsic design changes, clearancerequirements, vegetation control requirements etc); and/or

    To the operations and maintenance procedures that led to thepotential ignition; and

    Implement the appropriate combination of plant/procedural changes thatwill mitigate similar events recurring.

    Identify and document where firefighting efforts were hindered by theoperation of the Waubra Wind Farm; and

    Based on an analysis of that hindrance, implement changes too operations and maintenance plans, and/oro plant design to reduce the impact on the firefighting effort in future

    fires.

    10.0 Enhancing Public Awareness of Power Lines andBushfire Risks

    ACCIONA Energy will promote safety and environmental issues relating to the operationof its overhead power lines to increase community understanding. This will be achievedby liaising directly with landowners (or public authorities) on whose land our overheadpower lines are located. ACCIONA Energy will keep all relevant government authorities(e.g. Regulators, Councils, and Emergency Services etc) that may be affected by thepresence and operation of our overhead power lines.

    Additional consultation will be undertaken where the ELCMP may impact any landowner orpublic authority. This is set out in more detail in the Community Consultation section ofthe ELCMP.

    Enhancing public awareness of this BMP will be achieved through actions including but notlimited to;

    Publication of this BMP and the ELCMP on our public website Providing landowners or public authorities with our overhead power lines or

    substations on their land with:o Information & publications from, or in keeping with, Energy Safe

    Victoria’s campaigns on: Managing trees near powerlines, and Look up and live or dead and buried

    o Relevant information regarding the Code Of Practice on electrical safety for work on or near high

    voltage electrical apparatus (“Blue Book”) ACCIONA Energy’s procedures and permits for working in the

    vicinity of high voltage apparatus Providing Emergency Services with

    o Opportunities for their personnel to Familiarise themselves with the Waubra Wind Farm and its

    Emergency Response Plan Participate in Exercises of the Emergency Response Plan

    o Information regarding the procedures that allow for the de-energisation and isolation our electrical apparatus in emergencysituations.

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    11.0 Management of this PlanThis section describes the processes and procedures to be used by ACCIONA Energy tomanage this plan.

    11.1 Document Control & AccessThe custodian of this BMP shall be ACCIONA Energy General Manager - Operations.

    The document is to be readily available, and to be produced upon request of

    the external auditor, all site based staff, ACCIONA Energy management, key external stakeholders, and the general public.

    The BMP is stored electronically and hard copies are available at the Waubra Wind FarmMaintenance Facility and Acciona Energy Corporate Office located at,

    Level 12 Freshwater Place

    2 Southbank Blvd

    Southbank, Vic 3006

    Regular office hours: 08:30 – 17:30 Mon-Fri

    This BMP is also available on the Company’s website.

    http://media.acciona.com.au/media/5706951/waubra-bushfire-mitigation-plan-rev-82-2018-2019.pdf

    11.2 Monitoring & Auditing of the PlanThe primary mechanism for monitoring this plans performance will be to record a numberof relevant parameters (Key Performance Indicators) including:

    CFA fire statistics reports (ACCIONA Energy has set a benchmark of causingnot more than 2% of ignitions by CFA statistics),

    Number of near miss incidents, and Internal and external audit results.

    These will be recorded in an appropriate data store by ACCIONA Energy’s General Manager– Operations (e.g. ACCIONA Energy’s Computerised Maintenance Management System,and/or Integrated Management System). A summary will be provided to the HSEQManager annually so that improvements to the plan, design and operations andmaintenance procedures can be made if necessary.

    Additionally, the following reports will provide a measure of the performance of the BMP.

    Summary statistics describing the achievement of the ELCMP inspection andmonitoring program,

    Summary table of the BMP inspection and monitoring program, and Summary of vegetation clearing and pruning programs including completed

    works, planned (short-term) works and forecast (long-term) works andestimated completion dates.

    The comparison of these reports, with previously compiled reports, will provide amechanism to ensure that rectification works are completed.

    Additionally, standard asset management processes will provide inputs into the BMP. Inparticular records will be used to ensure that trends and failures that form potentialsources of ignition are tracked and controlled.

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    11.3 Monitoring & Auditing of InspectionsThe audit process for inspections is set out in section 7.0 above.

    Any part of this plan or its associated systems, procedures and reports may be inspectedat any time by independent third party inspectors as a part of Acciona Energy’s HSEQ auditprocess.

    11.4 Identifying Deficiencies & Revising the Plan

    11.4.1 Identifying Deficiencies

    Deficiencies in this BMP may be identified by a variety of means such as:

    Annual review of this BMP by the Site Manager, Annual review by Energy Safe Victoria, External Audit, Fire Investigations, Comments and suggestions from:

    o members of the public, oro an officer of a public authority.

    11.4.2 Document Review & Timing

    This BMP shall be prepared by ACCIONA Energy and submitted to ESV prior to 1 July ineach year as required by Section 83A of the Act.

    The BMP may be revised more frequently in response to:

    significant changes to factors such as;

    o legislation,

    o policy,

    o industry practice,

    o standards and

    o responsibilities;

    Deficiencies identified in the plan’s implementation;

    Deficiencies identified in the inspection process;

    Deficiencies revealed by incident investigations.

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    11.5 Dispute ResolutionWritten or verbal submissions on this plan or the implementation of this plan can be madeat any time during the life of the project. Written submissions and any other commentsshould be addressed to:

    Name Ross Tochez Anderson

    Position HSEQ Coordinator

    Address Level 12, Freshwater Place2 Southbank BoulevardSOUTHBANK Victoria 3006

    Phone 03 9027 1000

    e-mail [email protected]

    In the event that the person listed above is not contactable, a written submission can belodged to the ACCIONA Energy’s Melbourne Office (using the address given above).

    ACCIONA Energy shall contact the submitter and attempt to settle the dispute in a mannerthat is satisfactory to both ACCIONA Energy and the member of public and complies withthe Act, Regulations and Code.

    In the unlikely situation where the dispute cannot be resolved by this person, ACCIONAEnergy will provide details of the dispute Energy Safe Victoria to independently provideguidance on a suitable resolution.

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    Glossary & AbbreviationsThe following abbreviations are used throughout this document.

    ACCIONA Energy: Acciona Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd (ABN 54 600 910 647)

    Act .................. Electricity Safety Act 1998(version 063, 10-Jul-2013)

    AER ................. Australian Energy Regulator

    BMP................. Bushfire Mitigation Plan

    Bushfire ........... a generic term for an unplanned fire which includes grass fires,forest fires and scrub fires. Used interchangeably with “wildfire”.

    CFA ................. Country Fire Authority

    Code................ Code of Practice for Electric Line ClearanceElectricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations 2015(version 001, 28-June-2015)11

    ELCMP ............. Electric Line Clearance Management Plan

    ESV ................. Energy Safe Victoria

    ESC ................. Essential Services Commission Victoria

    HSEQ............... Health Safety Environment Quality

    OEMP............... Operational Environmental Management Plan

    Regulations ...... Electricity Safety (Bushfire Mitigation) Regulations 2013(version 004, 01-May-2016)

    11 As defined on the Energy Safe Victoria website http://www.esv.vic.gov.au/Legislation-Regulations/Legislation-administered-by-ESV (accessed 02 Aug 2016).

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    References

    ACCIONA Energy, Operations Environmental Management Plan v1.4 2012.

    ACCIONA Energy, Wind Farm Operations Manual, 2011.5ACCIONA Energy, Electric LineClearance Management Plan 2016-17.

    Electricity Safety Act 1998 (version 071, 29-July-2013).

    Electricity Safety (Bushfire Mitigation) Regulations 2013 (version 004, 01-May-2016).

    Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations 2015 (version 001, 28-June-2016).

    Fire Hazard Ratings for the Electricity Safety Act 1998 – 2013 Edition. Country FireAuthority (DVD).

    http://www.esv.vic.gov.au/Legislation-Regulations

    http://www.esv.vic.gov.au/Electricity-Professionals

    http://www.aer.gov.au/

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    Appendix A – Overview Map of the Waubra Wind Farm

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    Appendix B – Requirements for Preparing this Plan

    B1 The Legal Requirement to Prepare this Plan

    Under section 3 and 83A of the Act, ACCIONA Energy is deemed to be a “SpecifiedOperator” because it operates “an at-risk electric line” as a part of the Waubra Wind Farm.The underpinning logic of this definition is set out below.

    “Specified Operator” is defined in section 83A of the Act as;

    the operator of an at-risk electric line but does not include a majorelectricity company.

    “Major Electricity Company” is defined in section 3 of the Act as;

    (a) a distribution company; or(b) a transmission company

    ACCIONA Energy is neither a distribution nor a transmission company12.

    An “At-Risk Electric Line” is defined in section 83A of the Act as;

    an electric line (other than a private electric line) that is -(a) above the surface of land; and(b) in a hazardous bushfire risk area.

    ACCIONA Energy operates both underground power cables and overhead powerlines within the Waubra wind farm but it is only the overhead powerlines that canbe considered as “At-Risk Electric Line”.

    A “Hazardous Bushfire Risk Area” is defined in section 3 of The Act as;

    an area -(a) to which a fire authority has assigned a fire hazard rating of "high"under section 80, whether or not the area is an urban area; or(b) that is not an urban area (other than an area a fire control authorityhas assigned a fire hazard rating of "low" under section 80);

    The Waubra Wind Farm is in the Country Area of Victoria and so the “Fire ControlAuthority” is the CFA. The CFA have applied a fire hazard rating of “high” to thearea in which the Waubra Wind Farm is located13. Consequently the Waubra WindFarm is a “hazardous bushfire risk area”.

    Section 83BA(1) of the Act requires Specified Operators such as ACCIONA Energy to;

    prepare and submit to Energy Safe Victoria, for acceptance underSubdivision 3, a plan for the operator's proposals for the mitigation ofbushfire in relation to the operator's at-risk electric lines.

    B2 The Form of the Plan

    Section 83BA(2) of the Act requires a Bushfire Mitigation Plan to;

    be in or to the effect of a form approved by Energy Safe Victoria; andmust include the prescribed particulars.

    The “Prescribed particulars for bushfire mitigation plans” is set out in section 6 of theRegulations for “Specified Operators” and in section 7 of the regulations for “Major

    12 Australian Energy Regulator website http://www.aer.gov.au/13 Fire Hazard Ratings for the Electricity Safety Act 1998 – 2013 Edition. Country Fire Authority (DVD).

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    Electricity Companies”. As a “Specified Operators” this BMP has been prepared using theparticulars required in section 6 of the Regulations.

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    Appendix C – CFA Ratings ExplainedThe CFA provides a variety of ratings according to different contexts. It is important thatreaders do not confuse these ratings and assessments. This Appendix provides a briefexplanation of some of the ratings provided by CFA.

    Under Section 80 of the Act the Country Fire Authority (CFA) is responsible for determiningthe Fire Hazard Rating of the private land in Country Areas of Victoria.

    The assignment of low and high Fire Hazard Ratings (FHRs) aims to safeguard life andproperty by preventing overhead electric line-related ignitions, on land-uses where suchignitions have the potential to cause damage to life, property and/or the environment.The potential for significant bushfire spread (encompassing grassfire through to forest fire)and resultant damage is assessed on different land-uses through the application of worst-case scenario weather conditions.

    In contrast, Bushfire Prone Areas (BPAs) and Bushfire Management Overlays (WMOs)define areas with significant potential for the ignition of houses due to sustained andsignificant ember attack as well as radiant heat and/or direct flame contact from goingbushfires. These areas generally include trees and shrubs and vegetation that can supportcrown fires. Whereas BPAs and WMOs generally consider areas of standing vegetation,Fire Hazard Ratings are assigned on the premise of continuous surface vegetation and/orfuel such as open grasslands.

    The Fire Danger Rating (FDR) tells us how dangerous a fire would be if one started. Ithelps us know when conditions are dangerous enough to enact our bushfire survival plan.Fire Danger Ratings are forecast by Bureau of Meteorology for up to four days in advanceand are based on weather and environmental conditions (e.g. fuel loadings and moisturecontent). The Fire Danger Rating is our prompt to take action to stay safe14.

    14 Country Fire Authority (http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/).

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    The table below15 explain what each Fire Danger Rating means.

    What does it mean?

    These are the worst conditions for a bush or grass fire.Homes are not designed or constructed to withstand fires in these conditionsThe safest place to be is away from high risk bushfire areas

    Expect extremely hot, dry and windy conditions.If a fire starts and takes hold, it will be uncontrollable, unpredictable and fastmoving. Spot fires will start, move quickly and come from many directions.Homes that are situated and constructed or modified to withstand a bushfire,that are well prepared and actively defended, may provide safety.You must be physically and mentally prepared to defend in these conditions.

    Expect hot, dry and possibly windy conditions.If a fire starts and takes hold, it may be uncontrollable.Well prepared homes that are actively defended can provide safety.You must be physically and mentally prepared to defend in these conditions.

    If a fire starts, it can most likely be controlled in these conditions and homes canprovide safety.Be aware of how fires can start and minimise the risk.Controlled burning off may occur in these conditions if it is safe - check to see ifpermits apply.

    15 See more at: http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/about-fire-danger-ratings

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    Appendix D – 66 kV Line Inspections

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