Grid connection deal finalised for 530-MW Aussie wind farm

Goldwind Australia said on Wednesday it has sealed an agreement for connecting to the power grid its 530-MW Stockyard Hill wind project in the state of Victoria.

The contract was signed with network operator AusNet Services (ASX:AST) and the Australian Energy Market Operator. Under its terms, AusNet Services will build, own and operate a new transmission line running 70 km (43.5 miles) south of the wind farm to a new 500-kV terminal station and network interface, which will also be constructed and owned by the network operator.

“Preliminary works for the construction of the powerline, including surveying and access track development, will commence shortly,” said John Titchen, Goldwind Australia’s managing director.

The Stockyard Hill wind park will use 149 units of Goldwind’s GW3 turbines. Goldwind Australia will take care of its engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) and will also operate and maintain the plant following commissioning. Balance of plant services for the project will be provided by a joint venture between Canadian engineering and construction group SNC-Lavalin Group Inc (TSE:SNC) and Australia’s WBHO Infrastructure.

Once up and running, the wind farm is expected to generate enough electricity for about 391,000 local homes, estimates Goldwind Australia, the Aussie unit of Chinese wind turbine maker Xinjiang Goldwind Science & Tech Co Ltd (HKG:2208). The output of the complex will be sold to utility Origin Energy Ltd (ASX:ORG) under a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA).

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