Melton has ranked in the top five council areas with the best track record of keeping trees clear of powerlines, according to Energy Safe Victoria (ESV).
The energy regulator has increased monitoring of Victorian councils and major electricity companies in meeting safety standards, finding that 84 per cent of inspected sites in the Melton municipality met the requirements.
Melton’s compliance rate is significantly higher than the state average of 67 Victorian councils, which is 70 per cent according to ESV.
Councils are responsible for keeping trees at a safe distance from powerlines on urban public land, while electricity companies are responsible for private and regional public land.
The regulations are in place in order to prevent fires, electrocutions and power outages, which can lead to property damage, network outages, injuries or even death.
During field inspections, ESV line clearance compliance officers review the length of powerline between two power poles to ensure vegetation is outside the required minimum distance.
ESV chief executive Leanne Hughson said the regulator was focused on ensuring trees remain clear of electricity networks while protecting the natural aesthetic of streets.
“We’re pleased to see councils improve their attention on their power line clearance responsibilities, however we require all councils to keep their attention on managing vegetation around powerlines in order to protect people, property and the electricity network.”
