TransGrid agrees to connect White Rock Wind Farm

White Rock Wind Farm

2 July 2015

Goldwind is pleased to announce that TransGrid has agreed to connect White Rock Wind Farm with 70 wind turbines to the NSW transmission system.

“TransGrid has a strong track record with Goldwind, delivering critical connection works on time and within budget” said John Titchen, Managing Director Goldwind Australia.

Goldwind acquired the White Rock Wind Farm project in 2014. The project is located in Northern NSW between Glen Innes and Inverell. Preparations are now underway for the construction phase to commence in late 2015. Goldwind has recently commenced the tender process for key construction contracts. Goldwind will utilise its 2.5MW advanced technology – permanent magnet, direct drive wind turbines with a 121m rotor diameter at White Rock Wind Farm.

In the five and a half years that Goldwind has been operating in Australia there have been two lengthy reviews of the Australian Renewable Energy Target. Last week the Senate passed legislation that removes the two yearly reviews – the five year target is now a very clear target for the renewable energy industry.

“The removal of the 2 yearly review and the return to bipartisan RET support is welcome” said John Titchen. White Rock Wind Farm is planned to be operating by mid-2017 at a time when new supply is needed due to increased demand under the renewable energy target. TransGrid Managing Director Peter McIntyre said lowering the cost of entry for renewable energy generators is a vital step to lowering carbon emissions.

“Australia’s energy sector needs to move towards a low emissions electricity system.”

“TransGrid is well placed to support renewable energy generators such as Goldwind by delivering smarter, more cost effective grid connection” said Mr McIntyre.

Once operating, stage 1 of the White Rock Wind Farm will be large enough to power up to 75,000 average NSW houses.