New England will be home to New South Wales’ largest wind farm, producing renewable energy to power 75,000 homes, as part of an investment and jobs boon for local communities.
The Member for New England Barnaby Joyce today joined representatives of Goldwind and CECEP Wind-Power Corporation (CECWPC) in announcing that construction of the Australian Government supported $400 million White Rock Wind Farm will commence at the end of the month.
“The White Rock Wind Farm will put New England on the map as a national leader in renewable energy production and drive local jobs and economic activity through the construction phase,” Mr Joyce said.
“The 175 Megawatt generating capacity of the project will make it larger than any operating wind farm in NSW.”
“This project will be a fantastic boost for the local economy, employing up to 200 people during the construction phase and generating 10 full-time positions over a 20 year period.
“This and other clean energy projects proposed for the region will ensure the New England is a major player in the field and sending power to the New England and beyond.
“Clean energy is essential to meet our emissions reduction targets.”
Mr Joyce said that the investment was part of a a strategic plan to broaden the local economy and create new and diverse industries that would create the future secure jobs New England needed to remain strong and vibrant.
“I’m working hard to deliver on my strong plan for economic growth, more jobs and stronger communities in the New England,” Mr Joyce said.
“We are working on delivering key parts of this plan through projects like funding and completing the Bolivia Hill realignment, completing the upgrade of Chaffey Dam, completing the Scone bypass and expanding the future training facilities at Tamworth Regional Airport.”
Goldwind Australia Managing Director, John Titchen said the investment in White Rock Wind Farm is being made on the basis of the Australian Government’s legislated Renewable Energy Target.
“The clear support for this Law by the Australian Government and the Opposition has been an important factor in making this investment commitment.
“Goldwind will construct the 175MW White Rock Wind Farm utilising 70 of our advanced technology 2.5MW wind turbines.
“Goldwind and CECEPWC will work closely and carefully with the local community during the construction and subsequent operation of this significant wind farm.” said
CECWPC will purchase a 75 per cent interest in White Rock Wind Farm with Goldwind retaining a 25 per cent interest.
CECWPC Chairman of the Board, Li Shusheng said his company is very pleased to have secured this opportunity to enter the Australian renewable energy market.
“The 175MW White Rock Wind Farm will be larger than any currently operating Wind Farm in NSW. The approvals, connection agreement and construction contracts are in place. The CECWPC and Goldwind investment will now enable construction to proceed,” he said.
Goldwind Australia will provide Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) services to the project as well as Warranty Operations and Maintenance during the operations period.
Transgrid is engaged to establish the connection to the 132kV transmission system and construct a 132kV transmission line and substation on the project site. Fulton Hogan have been appointed to perform the main wind farm civil and electrical works as well as public road works associated with the project.
Once operating, White Rock Wind Farm will produce sufficient clean renewable energy to power approximately 75,000 homes and the project investment will exceed $400 million.