Combining approximately 197 wind turbines with an installed capacity of up to 1,400 MW and supported by battery energy storage systems (BESS) of around 500 MW / 2000 MWh. The project represents a significant opportunity to contribute to Queensland’s renewable energy targets and Australia’s broader net-zero goals.
The proposed site has a number of benefits including optimal wind speeds (forecast to be in excess of 8.5 m/s), large land blocks with minimal proximity to neighboring dwellings, flat topography which will lead to cost-effective deployment, and proximity to the new CopperString transmission line being constructed by Powerlink Queensland.
The project will also create direct employment opportunities during construction and operation, as well as indirect opportunities through increased demand for local products, materials, and services.
DP Energy is committed to responsible development, with honest and meaningful engagement at the core of all projects. The DP Energy Australia Team are now actively engaging with early neighbors to the project including McKinlay Shire Council, Queensland Government agencies, First Nations, and other stakeholders.
The official project website www.windyplainsrep.com.au is now live, offering key information about the proposal, community benefits, and opportunities to register for updates or employment interest.
DP Energy will also launch a Community Benefit Fund Survey to help guide how a future fund, can best deliver lasting benefits to the region. The survey is also live and can be found via the project website.
The Windy Plains Renewable Energy Project is currently in the Project Feasibility stage, with high-level environmental, cultural heritage, and technical assessments underway. Approvals from Queensland and Commonwealth regulators will follow after more detailed studies and consultation have taken place.
DP Energy’s Australian portfolio also includes the proposed 430 MW Callide Wind Farm in Queensland, which has secured key state and federal approvals, and the 700 MW Euston Wind Farm in New South Wales, which was advanced through early-stage development by DP Energy before being handed over to a major Australian energy company for delivery.
Other Australian projects developed by DP Energy include the now operational 320 MW Port Augusta Renewable Energy Park in South Australia as well as a pipeline of early stage projects primarily in New South Wales and Queensland.
Headquartered in Buttevant in North Cork, and operating for over 30 years, DP Energy has enabled 1 GW of renewable energy generation through 21 significant infrastructure projects worldwide. Currently, DP Energy has a 4.5 GW pipeline of renewable energy projects across Ireland, the UK, Australia and Canada.
