Frequently Asked Questions

  • The Project is located approximately 20 kilometres (km) to the east of Miles and 16 km to the west of Chinchilla, within the Western Downs Regional Council (WDRC) Local Government Area (LGA).

  • The current design includes up to 106 wind turbines, with potential to increase or decrease turbine numbers following further detailed design. A battery energy storage facility (BESS) is also proposed as part of the Project.

  • The wind turbines are likely to be between 230m and 270m at the maximum tip/blade height.

  • The Project is anticipated to utilise the existing Powerlink transmission line that traverses the Study Area and a new substation will be built to connect the Project into the existing network. The majority of the Project’s cable network is expected to be located below ground.

  • The Project has a strong wind resource which blows mostly in the evenings and mornings, complementing solar generation.

    Existing high voltage transmission network located within the Project site with capacity to export the Project’s electricity generation.

    Good access to the Project site via the Warrego Highway and existing council roads.

    The Project is predominantly cleared and has undergone extensive development and modification. Areas of higher ecological value will be avoided as much as possible.

    Benign terrain will reduce vegetation clearing and earthworks compared with similar projects.

  • The proposed Study Area is approximately 14,000 ha.

    The amount of land that the Project will ultimately utilise is around 1-2% of the total Study Area.

  • Wind turbines do produce noise and ensuring that the project meets all regulatory requirements is a critical component of a wind farm’s design. The project must comply with noise limits set by the Queensland Government, notably a night-time limit of 35dB (or the background noise level plus a maximum of 5dB), which is measured outside of dwellings.

    Modern wind turbines are generally much quieter than most people expect. It is quite possible to carry out a normal conversation at the base of a turbine running at maximum power, without raising one’s voice. Generally, wind turbines will be located at least 1,500m non-host dwellings and at this distance, compliance with regulatory limits can be achieved.

  • Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) are areas with high renewable energy potential where development of projects and infrastrucutre may be coordinated to maximise benefits for regional communities.

    The Southern Queensland region spans from Maryborough in the north to Stanthorpe in the south, and west to Chinchilla. The GREH is located in the Darling Downs REZ.

    The Project will help to meet Queensland’s renewable energy targets of targets for 50% renewable energy by 2030, 70% by 2032 and 80 per cent by 2035.

    For more information on REZs:

    https://www.epw.qld.gov.au/energy/renewable-energy-zones/rez-roadmap/southern-REZs

  • The Project is anticipated to support approximately 300 jobs during the construction phase, and up to 12 jobs during the 30 year operational phase.

  • The construction of the Project is expected to take approximately 30 – 36 months, with a peak workforce need over 18 – 24 months.

    The Project is anticipated to support approximately 300 jobs during the construction phase. A local workforce will be prioritised where possible, maximising local opportunities and business activity. Some external labour may also be required.

    An outside workforce will be accommodated within nearby towns.

  • The Project is anticipated to have a lifespan of at least 30 years.

  • Multiple studies have concluded that wind farms do not have a negative impact on property values and can co-exist alongside existing land uses whilst providing an economic stimulus to host communities.

    Impacts vary between different regions and localities and we will be working with local landowners and stakeholders to manage any impacts through development, construction and operation of the project.

  • It takes an average of 6-8 months for a wind turbine to become carbon neutral and produce enough energy to offset that which was produced to manufacture and install. The wind farm will operate or at least 30 years, providing a significant carbon positive impact.

  • Yes, the vast majority of a wind turbine can be recycled. Currently, the recycle rate is bout 85%, with the aim of being 100% recyclable by 2040.

    Wind turbines are generally comprised of steel, fiberglass, cast iron, copper and aluminium, which are all commonly recycled.