Wind Farm Company Responds to Animal Euthanasia Claims

Australia's famous mascot is now on the "vulnerable" list as eucalyptus forests, which koalas depend on for food, are being cut down. Jan Jekielek/The Epoch Times

A major Australian renewable energy company has addressed allegations of euthanising animals—including threatened species like birds, koalas, and greater gliders—that obstruct construction of wind turbines.

Concerns were raised by politicians regarding the environmental plans for the construction of the Clarke Creek Wind Farm in Queensland, particularly the use of blunt force trauma to euthanise injured animals during the clearing process.

Squadron Energy, overseeing the project, said in its 125-page biodiversity management document that the euthanasing process for injured animals involved delivering a “hard, sharp blow to the base of the back of the skull” using a blunt metal or heavy wooden bar such as a sledgehammer or crowbar.

However, the company said the first stage of clearing for the project—60 percent complete—recorded no injuries or fatalities among koalas during construction.

“Squadron Energy has a zero-harm policy for native animals and holds itself to the highest environmental standards,” the company stated on Nov. 7.

“We have experienced wildlife officers on site who conduct assessments 24 hours before work starts and monitor and supervise work as it occurs, to prevent injury to fauna. They are qualified to respond to fauna encounters and relocate animals if required.

“In the unlikely event of injury—any animals encountered must be assessed for injury to determine whether the animal requires further treatment and care by a vet or wildlife carer.”

The wind farm project is expected to result in the removal of up to 1,513 hectares of suitable koala habitat.

Other anticipated consequences include bird and bat collisions with turbine blades, wildlife injuries during vegetation clearing, and habitat degradation.

Biggest Renewable Project in the Southern Hemisphere

Billionaire Andrew Forrest, who acquired the Clarke Creek wind farm in 2022, envisions the $3 billion project would be the largest renewables project in the southern hemisphere.

It aims to generate enough wind, solar, and battery energy to power over 660,000 homes, equivalent to 40 percent of Queensland households.

Mr. Forrest anticipates adding 194 turbines in the first stages, with the project exporting electricity to the grid by 2025.

“When fully operational, Clarke Creek will displace enormous amounts of carbon each year by harnessing the renewable energy of the wind and sun to power our homes and commercial premises, providing cheaper energy without the hidden costs associated with coal-fired power stations,” Mr. Forrest said.