Air quality and transport were expected to be key questions on residents' mind as EnergyAustralia hosted the first of three community information sessions in Lithgow on Monday, July 22.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The sessions focus on EnergyAustralia's proposed energy recovery project for Mt Piper power station, which would divert rubbish from landfill to be burnt at the station to generate electricity.
EnergyAustralia stated the proposal to burn non-recyclable plastics, linen and cardboard (refuse driven fuel or RDF) would be an Australian first project.
But it has raised concerns within the community about what it would mean for emissions from Mt Piper and truck movements across the Blue Mountains for the RDF to be delivered.
The environmental impact statement (EIS) for the project is now under way, with more community sessions expected to be held before it is finalised later in the year.
EIS project manager Amanda Antcliff from ERM said a "whole gamut" of factors would be assessed as part of that process, including air quality, environment, noise, traffic, human health and heritage.
Once lodged, the entire EIS would then go on public exhibition, she said.
EnergyAustralia community relations lead Mick Hanly said the community sessions allowed people to come out and ask for more information on certain aspects of the project.
- Public information sessions are being held on Monday, July 22 1pm-6pm at Lithgow Library; 10am-1pm on July 23 at Wallerawang Library; 2pm-6pm on July 23 at Portland Library.
ALSO IN THE NEWS: Lithgow police investigate multiple alcohol thefts | Police briefs
