Tilt Renewables has celebrated the official opening of New South Wales’ largest operating wind farm at Rye Park, north of Yass.
The 396MW Rye Park Wind Farm was launched by NSW Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe at a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on-site, followed by a community celebration at the Rye Park Recreational Ground.
Featuring 66 high-capacity 6MW turbines, the wind farm spans the edge of the Southern Tablelands and South-West Slopes, near the townships of Rye Park and Boorowa.
Tilt Renewables CEO Anthony Fowler said the milestone reinforces the company’s position as a leader in Australia’s energy transition.
“This project represents a major step forward in Australia’s transition to a clean energy future,” Fowler said. “With 66 turbines now standing tall across these hills, the fully operational Rye Park Wind Farm can generate up to 396 megawatts of renewable energy – enough to power approximately 215,000 homes.
“It’s a big win for New South Wales and a significant milestone for Tilt Renewables, which is proudly Australian-owned and the largest owner of wind and solar generation in the country.”
Sharpe said the project is central to the NSW energy transformation.
“With three out of four of the state’s remaining coal-fired power stations due to close in the next decade, Rye Park plays a vital role in keeping the lights on,” she said.
“The Minns Government welcomes this project that will supply more reliable and affordable energy.”
More than half of the wind farm’s output is contracted to Newmont’s Cadia gold mine through a long-term power purchase agreement.
For more renewable and solar news, subscribe to ecogeneration.