The Queensland Government has officially provided development approval for up to 195 wind turbines located at Clarke Creek, 150 kilometers North West of Rockhampton. The wind farm is set to be one of the largest in Australia, producing a power output of over 800 megawatts of electricity to the surrounding areas.
In addition to the ambitious new turbines being built, associated infrastructure will include substations, power lines, accommodation for temporary workers, and staff / operational facilities. The Lacour Energy wind farm development is currently on track to have a 36-month construction period.
“The $1 billion Lacour Energy wind farm project will involve approximately 350 jobs during construction,” said the Minister for State Development, Cameron Dick.
“The new wind farm is a part of Queensland’s $20 billion pipeline of energy projects – with projects worth almost $4.5 billion underway or financially committed,” voiced Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham.
This news comes after the Palaszczuk Government expressing their focus for central Queensland to reach its 50 per cent renewable energy target by 2030 ( they are currently standing at 8 per cent), with more than 20 similar projects currently underway or financially committed. These economy-boosting projects will create more than 3500 construction jobs across the state. The Palaszczuk Government still stands by their two-year guarantee that electricity prices will not rise above inflation.
“It is a unique renewable energy project which combines excellent wind and solar resources at a location directly adjacent to the backbone of the Powerlink 275 kV transmission network,” said Director of Lacour Energy, Mark Rayner.
“Lacour Energy has worked closely with the department to assess acoustic impacts of the wind farm as well as impacts on fauna and vegetation,” said the Energy Minister. A feasibility study will also be completed by the end of 2018 so that construction can commence in early 2019.