The Federal Government has approved new wind farm in New South Wales’ Central West, unlocking another 943MW of clean energy generation capacity.
Located near Coolah in Warrumbungle Shire, the Valley of the Winds Wind Farm consists of 131 wind turbines paired with a 320MW battery facility, and marks the 102nd renewable energy project approved by the Federal Government.
The project was given the green light in just 38 days by the Federal Government, following an assessment by the New South Wales Government under a bilateral agreement, who said that the project has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 2.5 million tonnes a year, the equivalent of taking around 955,000 cars off the road annually.
During construction, the Federal Government said that the project is expected to support up to 400 jobs, as well as 50 during ongoing operation roles.
Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt, said that the project was an example of how renewable energy projects can exist alongside agriculture.
“The Valley of the Winds project will generate jobs and investment for the Coolah community – all without impacting on neighbouring grazing and cropping activities,” he said.
“Through the planning process the proponent listened to community feedback and modified the layout and scale of the facility, to minimise the impact on nearby farms.
“This project is proof that renewable projects can work for regional communities by securing new, local jobs, while ensuring that agriculture can still thrive.
“The Federal Government has now approved more than 100 renewable projects which will together deliver cheap, clean, and reliable power to all Australians.”
