Name
Gavin Thomas
Job title
Practice Leader - Ecology
Organisation
Niche Environment and Heritage
Speaker biography
Gavin, a Practice Leader at Niche, is a multi-skilled terrestrial ecologist with over 20 years’ experience in providing services for the design, planning and delivery of ecological and restoration projects in New South Wales and across Australia’s eastern seaboard. He has developed survey designs and methods for large and often complex projects for multiple clients, many of whom have had projects in remote locations and in very challenging environments. Gavin is a respected expert in the energy transition space with a focus on providing high-level expertise on key biodiversity issues and constraints, particularly related to birds and bats.
Speaking At
Presentation title
Birds, bats and the bottom line: Early-stage considerations to reduce approval risks and curtailment costs
Presentation summary
Bird and bat utilisation is often the longest lead-in study for wind projects, is highly likely to cause design changes, and if not addressed sufficiently, can result in expensive long-term monitoring and curtailment costs. This is why early-stage risk assessments are critical — but with so many assessment options, logistical survey challenges and evolving guidelines, how do project proponents conduct risk assessments that actually reduce risks? Nationally renowned expert Gavin Thomas will discuss strategies to help proponents create conditions for project success when selecting their risk assessment approach and explain the timeline, financial and environmental benefits of well-planned bird and bat risk assessments. Gavin will share insights gathered from his experience working with wind farm proponents across Australia, helping bridge the gap between the scientific world of bird and bat studies and the commercial realities of navigating project approvals. Gavin’s presentation will cover: -How bird and bat risks can be a project killer if not managed up-front -Overview of different risk assessment models available and analysis of the outcomes from live projects -Evolving survey techniques and technology to improve accuracy of risk assessments -Strategies to address risks during design phase to effectively site turbines -Learnings from international examples and local case studies Birds and bats can have a significant impact on the financial viability of a wind project. Gavin’s presentation will guide proponents to take a proactive approach to risk assessments and design out their biggest risks, leading to smoother project approvals and avoiding future collision and curtailment risks.
