Melissa Coleman
On Thursday 8 September, the largest wind farm in the southern hemisphere poured its first foundation at the record breaking MacIntyre Wind Precinct.
After three months of earthworks and ground preparation, concrete has begun to pour for 180 foundations that will support some of the most powerful onshore wind turbines in the world.
When completed the MacIntyre Wind Precinct’s 180 turbines will generate 1,026MW of renewable electricity, enough power for the equivalent of 700,000 homes.
ACCIONA Energia Managing Director Brett Wickham said construction was proceeding at full steam creating nearly 700 jobs and supporting hundreds of local businesses in the process.
“We’re extremely grateful for the support we’ve received from the local community as we build this transformational project,” said Mr Wickham.
“We’ve committed to procuring as much work as possible from local businesses so that the benefits are felt right throughout the community.”
The $2 billion project is procuring $500 million in work from Queensland businesses. From earthworks, transport and accommodation to food and engineering, the project is being delivered to support as many Queensland businesses as possible.
“These major projects are vital in the regions helping to create new economic foundations that can support larger local economies and new employment opportunities for those living in the area,” said Mr Wickham.
Queensland based Ark Energy and co-investor in the MacIntyre Wind Farm said that the site was setting the standard for renewable energy developments around the country.
“MacIntyre has set a new high bar for what renewable energy is capable of and how industry can decarbonise its supply chain,” said Ark Energy CEO Daniel Kim.
“Ark Energy will use renewable energy from the MacIntyre Wind Farm to decarbonise its zinc refinery operations in Townsville becoming one of the first major refineries in the world to produce green zinc,” said Mr Kim.
