Coopers Gap Wind Farm
Windlab used proprietary WindScapeTM wind mapping technology to identify the project site and, with partner Investec Bank (Australia) Limited, co-develop the project. The project will shortly finalise planning applications with new partner AGL.
Project Details
| Location | In the Bilboa and Cooranga North region, approximately 50km west of Kingaroy and 65km north of Dalby, Queensland |
| Land type | The area is predominantly cleared cattle grazing country and covers approximately 12,000 acres in total |
| Number of turbines | Up to 213 turbine generators |
| Total generation capacity | Up to 440 MW |
| Project cost | Over $A1.2 billion to construct |
| Low emissions contribution | Contribute to the Queensland Government's Renewable and Low Emission Energy Target Scheme of 6% by 2015 and 10% by 2020 |
Project summary
The site was identified by Windlab Systems in late 2005.
A 60m wind monitoring mast was installed in March 2006 in order to accurately measure wind speed and direction in the area.
After 12 months of data were collected from the wind monitoring mast, land was secured for the project and various pre-feasibility studies in the area began.
A comprehensive flora and fauna assessment has been undertaken in the area. It determined that the project will have minimal impact on the local flora and fauna population. The various listed remnant vegetation areas located within the area will be avoided during project construction.
Stakeholder Consultation was held during July and August 2008 with overwhelming support for the project.
The project has been referred to the Commonwealth Government under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, and has been determined as 'not a controlled action' under the Act. As such, an Environmental Impact Assessment is not required for the project.
The Development Approval (if granted) is expected during 2009.