Powering the future: How RPS ecologists are shaping the renewable energy boom

The role of ecologists in shaping Australia’s clean energy transition

Renewable energy projects are accelerating across Australia as part of the country’s transition to net zero, with wind farms, solar farms, and battery storage developments reshaping the energy landscape. The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), has released a roadmap to deliver 82% renewables into the country’s electricity grid by 2030, bringing a surge in large-scale projects that require careful ecological oversight.

According to AEMO’s latest report, which outlines trends and performance in our energy grid, renewables already account for 46% of the overall supply mix in the national energy market. The operator anticipates that the national grid's solar and wind capacity will grow threefold. Meanwhile, rooftop solar capacity is projected to double, and storage capacity is expected to expand six times over. But with these developments comes an equally significant responsibility: ensuring that progress is made in harmony with the environment.

For RPS Senior Ecologists Polina Irwin and Tara Boreham, this is where their expertise comes in. From conducting impact assessments to designing mitigation strategies, their work ensures that renewable energy projects are not only viable but also ecologically responsible.

Driving sustainable development through ecological expertise

For Polina and Tara, no two days are the same. Their work spans technical assessments, field surveys, regulatory engagement, and mentoring junior ecologists—all to ensure renewables projects meet strict biodiversity requirements.

"As seniors, we oversee multiple projects while also supporting our team," says Polina. 

"That includes reviewing technical reports, liaising with developers and regulators, and ensuring field surveys align with best-practice ecological standards."

Tara adds, "We’re involved from the early planning stages, forecasting fieldwork, managing survey logistics, and advising on biodiversity constraints. The level of influence we have in shaping projects is one of the most rewarding parts of the role."

Working on the frontline of Australia’s renewable energy boom

Polina and Tara are leading ecological assessments for major wind farm developments, where their expertise ensures projects are designed with minimal environmental impact.

"One of my projects spans a 10,000-hectare site with 75 proposed turbines," explains Tara. 

"We conduct bird and bat utilisation surveys to understand species presence, flight heights, and movement patterns. This data informs a collision risk assessment to minimise impacts."

Polina shares a unique example from her work: "We discovered an endangered grassland earless dragon in a wind farm project area. At first glance, the site seemed like an unlikely habitat for significant biodiversity, but this tiny reptile had survived in isolated grassland patches.” 
“Finding solutions to protect biodiversity while enabling renewable energy development is what makes this work so exciting," enthuses Polina. 

This discovery also led to an unexpected collaboration with the local Cooma Men's Shed in the NSW Snowy Mountains. Volunteers from the Men’s Shed helped build artificial burrows replicating the natural wolf spider holes the dragons inhabit. In total, RPS ecologists installed 168 artificial dragon tubes, enabling the team to monitor population dynamics.
 
“The initiative is both a conservation effort and a rewarding community project, supporting the survival of this rare native species while fostering local engagement in environmental protection,” says Tara.

Collaboration and innovation in ecological consulting

Unlike traditional development projects, where ecological assessments are often seen as a last-minute regulatory requirement, renewable projects prioritise biodiversity from the outset.

"In the renewables space, we work alongside developers, regulators, and local communities from day one," says Polina. 

"Instead of working around environmental constraints and challenges, we collaborate to find solutions that support both conservation and project viability."

Tara agrees, highlighting the shift in approach. "There’s a real partnership in these projects. We’re not seen as a hurdle to development, but as experts helping achieve the best environmental and project outcomes."

However, while the industry is evolving, challenges remain—particularly around community acceptance of wind farms.

"Renewables are such an interesting space because while ecologists are passionate about the transition to clean energy, local communities don’t always see the benefits," explains Polina. 

"Community consultation is a huge part of our work because, understandably, people have concerns about the visual impact of wind farms. Some landowners benefit financially, while their neighbours may only see turbines without direct compensation, leading to tension."

Harnessing new technologies for better ecological outcomes

With the demand for ecological expertise growing, the industry is also embracing innovative survey techniques to enhance environmental assessments.

"Drone surveys, GIS mapping, and passive acoustic monitoring are becoming more widely used," says Tara. 

"We now analyse vocalisations of species like koalas and owls, which provides a non-invasive way to assess biodiversity presence."

Polina highlights another example of innovation: "For one project, we partnered with a university to trial non-invasive habitat monitoring tubes instead of traditional pitfall traps. This approach reduces environmental disturbance while still allowing us to collect critical data."

“These tubes serve as both research tools and long-term habitat structures, providing shelter for endangered species even after surveys are complete."

Despite these advances, much of the work remains hands-on. 

"Ecology is one of those fields that still relies heavily on fieldwork," adds Tara. 

"Technology can enhance our work, but at the end of the day, boots-on-the-ground surveys are irreplaceable."

Beyond renewables: The broader impact of ecological consulting

While renewables projects are a key focus, the ecology team at RPS works across a diverse range of developments, from large-scale infrastructure to conservation monitoring.

"We do a lot of ecological monitoring—before, during, and after developments—to ensure projects don’t negatively impact biodiversity over time," says Tara. 

"For example, we monitor seasonal changes in habitat conditions, tracking how species populations respond to development over multiple years."

"There’s also a research component to some of our projects," adds Polina. 

"We contribute to scientific studies and work with government agencies to refine ecological assessment methods. It’s great to be involved in work that not only meets regulatory requirements but also adds to the broader understanding of conservation."

Career growth, flexibility, and a supportive culture

One of the biggest draws of working at RPS is the opportunity to grow and shape your career.

According to Polina, the diversity of projects at RPS is incredible. 

"Whether you want to specialise in impact assessments, ecological monitoring, or team leadership, there’s a pathway for you," explains Polina.

"I came from a background where I felt I’d hit a ceiling. At RPS, I’ve been able to take on larger projects, mentor junior staff, and shape my own career path." 

Tara also emphasises the supportive team culture, noting that RPS fosters a close-knit group of ecology specialists.

"We have an incredibly supportive ecology team, and the flexibility to balance fieldwork, reporting, and project management. The ability to tailor our careers based on our strengths and interests is a huge advantage."

"Also, we’re not just colleagues—we actually enjoy spending time together outside of work, whether it’s hiking, birdwatching, or sharing field stories over dinner."

More than just a job: A team that thrives together

While the work can be challenging, the team at RPS knows how to make the most of their time together.

"Earlier this year, we went canyoning and abseiling in the Blue Mountains as a team," shares Polina. 

"It was an amazing day—soaking wet, freezing cold, but an unforgettable experience. These kinds of trips bring us together and remind us why we love working in the environment."

For ecologists looking to be part of a team driving real impact in renewable energy, RPS offers a unique opportunity to work on some of Australia’s most significant sustainability projects—while being supported by a passionate and forward-thinking team.