Victorian Wind Farms to Help Power Canberra

Published:
Friday 6 February 2015

The Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio, today congratulated two Victorian wind farm companies for winning the right to help power the Australian Capital Territory.

The Windlab Systems and RES companies were two of three successful bidders at an ACT Government wind farm auction, announced today by the ACT Government.

Windlab Systems is an Australian owned renewable energy company. It is the first renewable energy project in the country with an ownership structure that includes the local farming community.

RES has been leading the field in wind energy development worldwide for more than 30 years. Its Ararat Wind Farm will help produce clean, green electricity and help to support the regional and local economy.

Eighteen proposals were received for the ACT's first wind power auction, reflecting keen industry interest in the project. The auction for 200 MW attracted bids representing more than 1000 in MW capacity.

Once operational from 2016, the new wind capacity will reduce the ACT's greenhouse gas emissions by around 8.5 million tonnes over the first 20 years of operation. 200 MW of wind power is expected to provide about 33 per cent of the ACT's electricity consumption from renewable sources by 2016.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Lily D’Ambrosio

“Congratulations to our two Victorian wind farm companies for winning half of the power capacity on offer in the ACT wind farm auction.”

“Clean power generation is a priority of the Andrews Labor Government after the previous Liberal Government compromised the future of this important industry.”

“We will further support this industry through the Future Industries Fund which will offer support to businesses in the renewable energy sector to come to Victoria and employ locals.”