Victoria has taken a step forward in its renewable energy journey with the opening of two new wind farms, including one of the largest in the state.
The Ryan Corner Wind Farm and Hawkesdale Wind Farm are now operational, collectively generating enough affordable, renewable energy to power 208,000 Victorian homes.
Parliamentary Secretary for Climate Action Sheena Watt officially opened the wind farms today, located in southwest Victoria’s Moyne Shire.
Ryan Corner Wind Farm, boasting 52 turbines, is one of the largest in Victoria, capable of producing 218 megawatts (MW) of electricity—enough to power 140,000 homes, the government said in a news relese.
Meanwhile, Hawkesdale Wind Farm adds 23 turbines with a 97MW capacity, sufficient to power 67,000 homes.
“Ryan Corner Wind Farm and Hawkesdale Wind Farm will strengthen our grid with more reliable, renewable and affordable energy while helping us to take the critical action necessary to limit climate change,” Watt said.
The government reported that renewable energy generation reached 49 per cent of Victoria’s electricity needs in October, with wind energy accounting for 23 per cent.
“With more than 4.7 gigawatts of wind energy operating across 42 projects, and a further nine either under construction or approved, we have created the foundations that secure Victoria’s energy future,” said Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio.
Since 2014, the renewable electricity generated by wind farms in Victoria has more than quadrupled, the government reported.
This surge in clean energy has kept wholesale power prices in the state consistently the lowest in the country, protecting Victorians from global energy price volatility.
Victoria is on track to achieve its next target of 40 perc ent renewable energy by 2025, bringing with it significant economic benefits.
The renewable energy sector is projected to deliver $9.5 billion in economic activity and create 59,000 jobs, many in regional areas.
Global Power Generation, the developer of both projects, has implemented Community Engagement and Benefit Sharing Plans to ensure local communities are kept informed and reap positive benefits.
These initiatives include updates on project progress and contributions to community programs.
