Ballarat City Council will consider throwing its weight behind the push to have the controversial western Victoria transmission power line run sections underground.
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The issue is on the agenda for discussion this week amid rising concerns about the project which have been raised by the community.
Moorabool and Hepburn Shires have already gone on record with their calls for the lines, which will run through their regions, to go underground.
The 190 kilometre transmission line to boost renewable energy is planned to run from the Wimmera near Stawell to Sydenham via Ballarat but the final route is yet to be decided.
Council will consider the issue of several Ballarat residents could be adversely affected by the project, particularly farmers in the north of the municipality.
Council officers have recommended councillors vote in favour of taking a stance on the project which has some community members concerned about the planning processes and potential impacts.
Ballarat councillor and long time environment advocate Belinda Coates said "There is a big demand for a renewable energy, so the infrastructure has to be there. At the same time, I think it is important to listen to the community."
"That's the key isn't it? Where possible to take into account direct impact on community members and the local environment." said Ms Coates
The officers' document includes community concerns that the Australian Energy Market Operator looked at the economics and viability of the project while ignoring the broader social,economic,environmental and cultural heritage impacts.
Among a list of community concerns raised are the impacts on farms and the types of agricultural machinery that can be used under the transmission lines, along with the flow on to associated secondary industries including food and and fibre manufacturing.
Council will also note other issues including the mental health of landowners, flora and fauna impacts, increased bushfire risks from above ground power lines, and interference with GPS, internet TV and phone reception.
Councillor Coates said "This is about advocating for the community and for a really good consultation on what actually happens in terms of the final infrastructure there."
Recommendations before council includes a call that the Environmental Effects Statement should consider using underground methods for power transmission wherever possible.
It's also suggested that the power line route uses existing road, rail and electricity easements where possible.
Ausnet Services the company behind the project, released a statement to The Courier
"We understand community concerns and remain committed to the consultation for the project which is an on-going part of the Environment Effects Statement (EES)."
"Full and partial undergrounding will be considered as part of the EES along with the use of existing infrastructure such as the Western Highway, current farming practices and land use."
Ausnet says it will continue to work closely with local councils and communities to narrow down the project couriers.
The recommendations which also declares council's full support for renewable energy being transmitted into the electricity network,go before council on Wednesday night
