28 October 2020
The 500 MW Wambo Wind Farm project has secured planning approval from the Queensland state government.
The project, located in south-west Queensland, 20km north-east of Jandowae, will comprise up to 110 wind turbines and a 50 MW/200 MWh battery storage and associated infrastructure.
The project is being jointly developed by Cubico Sustainable Investments (Cubico), a long-term owner and operator of renewable energy assets, and Renewable Energy Partners.
David Smith, Head of Australia at Cubico, said: “We are pleased to be developing a renewable energy project of this quality and scale that will assist the Queensland government in moving towards its target of 50% renewable energy generation by 2030.
“Construction of Stage 1 of the wind farm is expected to begin in late 2021, creating around 200 jobs, and be fully operational in 2023, providing a further 20 jobs. Cubico has a strong commitment to working with the state, as well as the local governments and community, to deliver jobs that support regional Queensland.”
Luke McDonald, CEO for Renewable Energy Partners, added: “We are excited to see the project reach this important milestone, having commenced work on the project in 2018.
“The site for the Wambo Wind Farm was chosen due to its excellent wind resource, strong transmission network, and low environmental impact. We are looking forward to working with Cubico and the local community to bring this project to completion.”
$50,000 community benefit fund announced
Cubico is also pleased to announce that it has established a pre-construction community benefit fund of $50,000 to support local projects and initiatives for the communities near the Wambo Wind Farm.
“This pre-construction fund will put a particular focus on building sustainable communities and enhancing the safety, health and wellbeing of local people. We welcome approaches from the community in the coming months on how best to use these funds,” noted David.
Mayor of the Western Downs Regional Council Paul McVeigh commented: “It is exciting to see another large scale renewable energy project being developed in the Western Downs region.
“Council has played a strong role in supporting the growth of renewables and congratulates Cubico and Renewable Energy Partners on this important milestone.”
Details of the pre-construction community benefit fund can be found on the project’s website www.wambowindfarm.com.au
An expanded community benefit fund is being established for the 30-year operational period of the project and will commence post-construction.
