The development of a 56 wind turbine wind farm in south west Queensland has been approved. Renewable Energy Systems’ $450 million project is set to support up to 400 jobs during construction and 35 once operational.
The Dulacca Renewable Energy Project is located approximately 250 kilometres north west of Toowoomba and it is anticipated to generate 240MW of renewable power for the Western Downs region.
“This project will help with the continued economic diversification of Dulacca, stimulating job growth during both construction and operation,” Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said.
The multi-million dollar project will also comprise of battery storage and ancillary infrastructure such as a substation, meteorology masts, overhead lines and access tracks.
Construction on the project is expected to commence in early 2020 and is due for completion by 2021.
“The wind farm development approval is a significant milestone for the project and we are excited to bring a renewable energy project of this scale to the Western Downs region.
“The site for the wind farm was chosen due to its excellent wind source, proximity to the transmission network, and low environmental impact,” Renewable Energy Systems Development Project Manager Llion Parry said.
The wind farm is projected to have an operational life of 30 years and it is expected to generate enough renewable energy to power up to 150,000 homes annually.
“We look forward to working further with the State Government, local council, local community and other key stakeholders to deliver the Dulacca Wind Farm for the region. The project is a significant step in supporting Queensland’s energy transition, and reducing bills for consumers,” Renewable Energy Systems Chief Executive Officer Matt Rebbeck said.
Renewable Energy Systems is also investigating the future addition of a solar farm on the project site which will be subject to a separate development application process.
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Source: Queensland Government; Dulacca Renewable Energy Project (1, 2); Renewables Now