Residents in and around the proposed Twin Creek Wind Farm site have expressed frustration over what they perceive as a lack of clear communication and transparency from RES, the project developers.
Tony Piccolo MP has stepped in to support the community, attending last Tuesday night’s community forum at the Vine Inn to hear residents' concerns and provide guidance.
During the meeting, numerous locals claimed they were not notified about the project and felt the information provided is too broad, leaving key issues unaddressed.
With the project currently on Public Notification until the 4th of April, Mr Piccolo encouraged residents to make written submissions to ensure their voices are heard.
"Don’t try to out-science them," Mr. Piccolo advised, acknowledging that differing experts may present conflicting views.
“Instead, it’s vital for residents to encourage the decision-makers, in this instance the State Commission Assessment Panel (SCAP), to seek independent, peer-reviewed advice to ensure every claim in the proposal is rigorously tested and validated.”
The Twin Creek Wind Farm and Energy Storage Project is located between the towns of Kapunda, Eudunda and Truro, spanning the Light Regional, Goyder Regional and Mid Murray Councils.
The project proposes up to 42 wind turbines, each with a blade tip height of up to 220 meters and a generating capacity of up to 7.2 MW.
The wind farm is expected to generate up to 270 MW of electricity, complemented by a battery energy storage facility with an indicative capacity of 215 MW.
Additional infrastructure includes access roads, substations, a meteorological mast and a transmission line extending approximately 15 kilometers to connect with the Robertstown-Tungkillo transmission line.
However, concerns have been raised about the project's environmental impact, including potential effects on endangered species like the pygmy blue-tongue lizard, as well as visual and noise implications for nearby residents.
Complaints have also highlighted the proximity to key tourist areas, including the Barossa, and the adequacy of community consultation.
"Renewable energy may be the future, but we need to ask: is this project right for this location, this community and this environment?" said Mr Piccolo.
"The Twin Creek Wind Farm proposal must balance renewable energy progress with community needs.
“It’s about getting it right—not just for today, but for future generations."
Mr Piccolo also emphasised the importance of thorough and transparent assessments of such proposals.
“While we welcome renewable energy initiatives, it’s essential to ensure these projects don’t overlook critical details or concerns raised by the community,” said Mr Piccolo.
“Together, we can advocate for a transparent and accountable process, ensuring that all aspects of the proposal are carefully considered and addressed.
"The voices of the community are integral to shaping the outcome of this project.
“Their concerns deserve attention, and their perspectives must be part of the decision-making process."
Mr. Piccolo has also submitted his own representation, reflecting the concerns raised by local residents.