Western Power carry out flora and fauna surveys annually. Here are some of their Frequently Asked Questions.

What access will you require to my property?

Western Power has a dedicated land access team and if access to your property is required, we will give you prior notice and information about any potential activities, such as fauna surveys, or site investigations. You'll receive a letter with the details of the work we're doing and the planned start and finish time.

While Western Power has statutory land entry powers prescribed under the Energy Operators (Powers) Act 1979 (WA), we will always adhere to any property entry requirements, where practicable.

Does this mean you are planning to build new infrastructure in the area?

No decisions have been made on any new infrastructure in the area. This flora and fauna survey will provide useful information to consider when planning future network upgrades.

Western Power will always work with landowners, community and stakeholders as part of any future project planning.

Spring surveys were conducted on my property last year. Are they done annually?

To ensure the best possible outcomes for the community, environment and the local electricity network, multiple surveys in different areas are needed. All surveys provide valuable input into our planning process.

What do you do with all the flora and fauna survey information, and how does it inform any network upgrades?

Survey results will help with project planning for any new infrastructure. Western Power is always focused on minimising impacts on communities and these early surveys provide important information about the area and any environmental sensitivities.

In many circumstances, multiple surveys in different areas are done to identify the best possible outcomes for the community and the environment.

If a survey is taking place on or adjacent to your land, we will communicate and work with you throughout the process to keep you informed, including working around key operational periods and seasons whenever practical when accessing properties.

Should any new infrastructure be located near my property, are there limitations to what I can do around it?

Should any new infrastructure progress as part of future network upgrades, Western Power recommends a safe distance be kept and for structures not to be located within any easements.

Easements provide access to the electrical network assets and protection against encroachment from vegetation and buildings.

While easements are legally protected for elements of the electricity network, Western Power will always work with landholders on the best outcomes when planning any upgrades.

More information on easements can be found on the Western Power website.