The Federal Government has approved one of the largest clean energy projects in the country, with the 1,500 megawatt Yanco Delta Wind farm set to generate enough energy to power 700,000 homes in NSW.
The project, located 10 kilometres north-west of Jerilderie on a 33,000-hectare site in the Murrumbidgee and Edward River Local Government Areas, includes the construction of 208 wind turbines, an 800 megawatt battery and grid connection infrastructure.
Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek said the approval was a significant step in the Government’s plan to make Australia a “renewable energy superpower”.
“Years of political fights over climate change have cost Australia big time. It meant emissions were higher for longer. It put renewable energy projects years behind,” said Ms Plibersek.
“We want to unlock Australia’s potential to be a world leader in renewable energy. It’s a huge task – we’re remaking our entire energy system.
“Our government has shown just how bright Australia’s future can be when there’s less political fighting and more action on climate change.”
She said the project will save up to nearly 5 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions every year – equivalent to taking 1.5 million cars off the road.
“We know projects like this are vital to boosting renewables, but they are also great for local jobs and economies. This project will support up to 300 jobs in construction and 30 ongoing jobs,” the Minister said.
