“A new approach is proposed by applying the JAW Framework consisting of four key pillars: distributive justice; procedural justice; recognition justice; and nexus justice, which is incentivising the creation of co-benefits between sectors.”
JMAJ’s Adrian Roles’ report examines the effects of energy infrastructure on agricultural technologies. He tested two pieces of tractor Global Navigation Satellite Systems, GNSS, as well as mobile phone under 13 transmission lines, ranging from 132kV to 500kV.
“As more renewable energy projects are being constructed on farmland and rural areas, it’s becoming an increasing concern of farmers and business in the rural areas on what effects the infrastructure associated with renewable energy projects may have on agricultural technologies, namely the high voltage transmission lines,” Mr Roles said.
“This is a viable concern as modern farming businesses rely on these technologies to conduct their business and maintain profitability and environmental sustainability.
“This research provides an estimate of the effects of transmission lines on two of the main agricultural technologies employed on today’s modern farming businesses: GNSS and mobile telecommunications.”
Kate Burke from Think Agri and Tayla Blight from Pinion Advisory have delved into the economic impacts on a farm business of being involved or not being involved in a wind energy project. Dr Burke said the project used a combination of interviews, information validation, financial analysis and modelling.
“As the first stage, we interviewed a range of farmers for their perspectives and experiences and then sought information from the wind energy companies to seek clarification of issues raised,” she said.
“To understand the long-term impact analysis, 12-year modelling was conducted using real farm data from the Wimmera. This modelling included seasonal variation. Decision making tools were then developed to farmers can make their own decisions.”
Chris Stallard and Mark Callanan from Amroc Advisory are producing a feasibility report about the impacts of energy infrastructure projects on farming businesses.
Mr Stallard said they have so far interviewed about 50 farmers, with many farmers not satisfied or unsure if they have sufficient public liability coverage in place to host infrastructure or neighbour projects.
Mr Callanan said risks identified by farmers to date included property damage, biosecurity, fire and business interruption.
“Over the next couple of months, we will continue to talk with farmers, as well as energy companies and governments to gather input on concerns and solutions,” he said.
“This will help us shape risk transfer options that are appropriate for farming businesses as part of the feasibility study.”
The reports and presentations can be found at www.wsm.org.au under ‘energy transition’.
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