One of the largest grid-connected wind farms in the Southern Hemisphere is a step closer for the Wide Bay-Burnett region, with development approval granted for Forest Wind.
Minister for Planning, Cameron Dick said the proposed 226-turbine project would provide a huge boost for the local economy.
“If it proceeds, this project could create around 440 jobs during construction and a further 50 full-time jobs during operation,” Mr Dick said.
“Forest Wind has the potential to generate up to 1,200 megawatts of electricity at capacity, which is enough to supply one in four Queensland homes.”
He said it was proposed that the wind farm be developed within State Forest land between Gympie and Maryborough.
Minister for Energy, Anthony Lynham said the project would join Queensland’s existing 5,500 megawatts of renewable energy capacity.
“Since December 2016, almost $5 billion has been invested in almost 2,500MW of new renewable generation in Queensland, creating almost 5,000 jobs,” Dr Lynham said.
“More generation helps put downward pressure on power prices and gives Queenslanders the lowest electricity prices on the Eastern Seaboard.”
Mr Dick said the project was being advanced as an Exclusive Transaction by the Queensland Government’s Investment Facilitation and Partnerships Group within the Department of State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning.
“This group aims to provide a clear entry point for major investment projects and a customised and streamlined pathway to decision-makers across Government,” he said.
