$1 billion CQ wind farm development brings 350 jobs

ONE of the largest wind farms in nation injecting $200,000 into community fund for local projects annually

An example of the wind farm layout for the proposed Clarke Creek project. Picture: Lacour

ONE of the largest wind farms in Australia will be perched on the ranges north of Rockhampton under a $1 billion development confirmed by the state government this week.

The Palaszczuk Government has approved a development for up to 195 wind turbines at Clarke Creek- 150 km north-west of the Beef Capital.

Creating around 350 jobs during construction, the development is part of Queensland's $20 billion pipeline for energy projects with many already underway.

Minister for State Development Cameron Dick said the 36-month construction would welcome a host of new jobs to the region.

"In addition to building the turbines, associated infrastructure will include substations, temporary workers' accommodation, staff and operational facilities and powerlines," Mr Dick said.

"This means jobs for the region... and more clean energy that our state can tap into."

Lacour Energy director Mark Rayner said the wind farm would have a power output of more than over 800 megawatts of electricity.

The proposed locations of 150 to 200 wind turbines at Clarke Creek, 150km south west of Mackay. Picture: Lacour

READ: $800m CQ development creating 350 jobs

"It is a unique renewable energy project which combines excellent wind and solar resources at a location directly adjacent to the backbone of the Powerlink 275 kV transmission network," Mr Rayner said.　

"The wind farm development approval is a significant milestone for the project.

"We look forward to completing the feasibility study by the end of the year so that construction can begin early next year."

In their development plans, Lacour said Clarke Creek was an area of "high wind and solar resources" and benefits from being close to existing roads including Marlborough-Sarina Rd.

The project would see the company give the community $200,000 a year for 25 years, through a community fund for local projects.

Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said investigations into acoustic impacts and fauna and vegetations impacts were underway with Lacour Energy.

"Queensland is focused on reaching its 50 per cent renewable energy target by 2030, with more than 20 projects currently either underway or financially committed, creating more than 3500 construction jobs across the state," he said.

"And as we progress to a renewable future, the Palaszczuk Government continues to deliver reliable supply and our two-year guarantee that electricity prices will not rise above inflation.

"Lacour Energy has worked closely with the department to assess acoustic impacts of the wind farm as well as impacts on fauna and vegetation.

"The Queensland Government looks forward to bringing more job-creating, economy-boosting projects to central Queensland."　

Originally published as $1 billion CQ wind farm development brings 350 jobs