Engie’s controversial lake project in Australia

With our correspondent in Sydney, Gregory Please

That’s the equivalent of 290,000 Olympic swimming pools, the amount of water needed to fill the huge hole left by the old Hazelwood mine. Engie’s plan has worried environmentalists. Thus, Briony Lipsky, the association’s attorney Environment AustraliaThere is concern over the impact such a project could have on surrounding waterways.

” If this water is taken from wetlands and rivers, the potential impact on tribal communities, farmers and fishermen will be significant. “, she explains.

Fear of drought

Like much of Australia, this region suffers from frequent droughts. According to meteorologists, it may return again by the end of the year. One thing that Engie Australia’s General Secretary Ryan Auger wants to reassure is:

“ All other water users shall have priority and perpetuity. Local industries, farmers and anyone who needs water for their activities will always look to the Hazelwood mine. ” says Ryan Auger.

This project has not yet been verified. Engie is required to submit an Environmental Impact Assessment to Victorian state authorities.

Additionally, the water beneath the mine, deep enough to reach the mine’s already slightly saturated groundwater table, ensures that it is tested every day. It is undrinkable, but not toxic either.

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