Coopers Gap Goes Online

The first turbines put power into the grid on June 24 at Coopers Gap (Photo: PARF)

June 24, 2019

An historic milestone occurred at the Coopers Gap wind farm on Monday with the first electricity generated from the site.

An AGL spokesperson said the two turbines fed energy into the National Electricity Market.

The $850 million project involves 123 wind turbines in total, which are equipped with blades that are up to 67 metres long.

AGL CEO Brett Redman said achieving first generation for a project this size involved an enormous effort by the many teams who have worked on the wind farm.

“The size and scale of a project like this is extraordinary, and today’s milestone is thanks to the hard work of so many people,” Mr Redman said.

“This is a significant project for AGL and the timing of bringing new generation into the grid is crucial for all energy users.

“We appreciate the support we have received from government agencies in Queensland to navigate the logistic issues experienced during construction.”

AGL General Manager of Gas and Renewables Operations Colin Mills said each turbine had a tip height of up to 180 metres and a rotor diameter of up to 137 metres.

“Throughout the construction process, around $56 million has been spent on local businesses and services providers,” Mr Mills said.

“The Coopers Gap Wind Farm, north-west of Brisbane, has a total capacity of 453 MW which makes it the largest wind farm by MW capacity currently operating in Australia.

“The project is owned and constructed by the Powering Australian Renewables Fund, a landmark financing initiative created by AGL and QIC. The $2-3 billion fund aims to develop and own approximately 1000MW in large-scale renewable generation projects.

“I’d like to thank PARF for its work in this achievement.

“I’d also like to recognise the efforts of the Australian Energy Market Operator and Powerlink as project partners who helped us get here, along with the support of the local community and local councils.”

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