The Queensland Government has unveiled plans to nearly double the capacity of the Wambo Wind farm located in the southwest region of the state in a move towards bolstering renewable energy infrastructure.
Once completed, the expanded wind farm is expected to deliver enough clean power to meet the energy needs of approximately 312,000 homes across Queensland, the government said in a media statement.
Originally slated for 42 wind turbines, the Wambo Wind Farm project in Jandowae is set for substantial expansion, with an additional 41 turbines to be erected at the site.
This expansion aligns with the Queensland Labor Government’s commitment to advancing renewable energy initiatives under the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.
The expansion of the Wambo Wind Farm represents a significant advancement in Queensland’s pursuit of renewable energy objectives, aiming to derive 70 per cent of its energy from renewable sources by 2032.
By 2026, the enlarged facility is projected to generate a total of 506MW of energy, with its 83 turbines towering at a height of 247 metres.
Not only will this initiative contribute significantly to Queensland’s clean energy goals, but it is also expected to yield substantial economic benefits for the region, the government revealed.
The project is anticipated to create approximately 200 direct construction jobs and up to 500 additional indirect jobs throughout its multi-year build.
Mick de Brenni, Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs, highlighted the importance of providing low-emissions power for industrial users to support decarbonisation efforts, ultimately benefiting the economy and job market.
“Queensland has been the world leader in rooftop solar, are now we are building world-class wind power thanks to partnerships between publicly owned energy companies like Stanwell, and world-renowned clean energy company Cubico Sustainable Investments,” the minister noted.
Michael O’Rourke, CEO of Stanwell, expressed excitement about the Wambo Wind Farm’s role in advancing the corporation’s renewable energy portfolio.
“Wambo Wind Farm is one piece of Stanwell Corporation’s rapidly advancing portfolio of renewable energy assets. It is the 14th renewable energy project in which we have an interest or offtake and moves us one step – or 41 turbines – closer to our target of 9 to 10 GW of clean energy by 2025,” he stated.
Construction for the first phase of the project is already underway, with foundations being laid for the initial turbines.
Stage Two construction is slated to commence in mid-2024, with commercial operation of Stage 1 anticipated by 2025, followed by Stage 2 in 2026.
Additionally, the project is forecasted to create eight ongoing jobs once fully operational.
The expansion of the Wambo Wind Farm is being carried out through a partnership between the publicly owned energy company, Stanwell Corporation, and global sustainable developers, Cubico.
Under the terms of the venture, Stanwell will retain 50 per cent ownership of the energy produced, with the remainder being purchased from Cubico through a 15-year agreement.
