Global clean energy enterprise TagEnergy has broken ground on Australia’s largest permitted wind farm site, with the first sod turned on the $2 billion, 756MW first stage of the 1,300MW Golden Plains Wind Farm near Rokewood Victoria.
Major contractors Vestas (windfarm EPC contractor) and Ausnet Services (grid connection works) have mobilised to the site where about 100 people are currently working – a figure that will balloon to 350 as construction ramps up.
Work has begun on wind farm and transmission line access tracks, turbine foundations and two substations that will connect the project’s clean energy to the grid.
The landmark moment follows completion of upgrades to 25km of local roads and seven intersections undertaken as part of the project’s $500 million investment in the local area.
Coinciding with the ground-breaking, TagEnergy announced additional community projects with a combined value of more than $300,000, jointly funded by the project and its contractors Vestas, CPP, MPK and AusNet Services, to improve community safety and convenience:
- New pedestrian refuge crossings near Teasdale and Rokewood primary schools;
- Upgrades to Two Bridges Road to improve safety and community access after being damaged during flooding events last year;
- Rokewood’s main street upgrades including a complete renovation of the public restroom facilities, new solar-powered rubbish and recycling bins, a new water fountain featuring indigenous artwork, new trees and refurbishment of existing park benches.
TagEnergy Managing Partner for Australia Andrew Riggs said, “Breaking ground marks another great milestone for this landmark project that will have a profound impact on the shift to clean energy in Victoria and beyond. We’re excited to get moving quickly on construction so we can continue to accelerate the transition to renewable energy and help the world reach net zero carbon emissions sooner.”
“The local community has shared the vision of the project and we’re proud to ensure they receive benefits for their support. The additional community projects we and our contractors are funding will enhance safety, comfort and convenience for all,” Mr Riggs said.
The next major milestone for the project will be the arrival of turbine components in October 2023 followed by first energisation to the grid in September 2024.
Following completion of stages one and two, Golden Plains Wind Farm will provide sustainable energy for more than 750,000 homes – the equivalent of every home in regional Victoria.
