The Clarke Creek Wind Farm, spearheaded by Squadron Energy, is setting a benchmark for Australia’s clean energy transition.
Encompassing multiple stages, it is set to become one of the largest wind energy projects in the southern hemisphere.
With a total capital expenditure of over $1.5 billion, the project stretches approximately 55km along the Broadsound Range, harnessing the region’s robust wind resources to generate sustainable electricity.
Once completed, it will feature 195 turbines, delivering a combined capacity sufficient to power approximately 590,000 homes – meeting around 4 per cent of Queensland’s electricity needs.
The project’s first stage, currently under construction, includes 100 wind turbines with a capacity of 450 megawatts (MW).
This phase alone will supply clean energy to 330,000 homes and prevent 738,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
The second stage, now in advanced planning, will add 94 turbines, contributing an additional 564 megawatts to Queensland’s renewable energy capacity.
Clarke Creek’s strategic location within a potential Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) highlights its significance.
Identified by Powerlink and the Queensland Government, REZs aim to connect clean energy projects, reduce generation costs, and foster investment in regional areas.
By aligning with this framework, Clarke Creek is well-positioned to bolster grid stability while accelerating the transition from coal-fired power stations to renewable energy.
The project’s environmental benefits are substantial. Beyond its impressive carbon savings, the wind farm complements Queensland’s solar energy output, as its turbines predominantly generate power during night-time hours.
This synergy enhances the reliability of renewable energy supply while also minimising disruptions to existing agricultural activities.
The wind farm’s turbines are strategically placed to coexist harmoniously with farmland, ensuring that the region’s agricultural heritage remains intact.
Clarke Creek Wind Farm is more than an energy project; it’s a catalyst for economic development and community engagement.
During construction, up to 350 jobs have been created, with 25 permanent roles anticipated upon completion.
Local businesses and contractors have been integral to the project, with over 15 Queensland companies actively contributing to its success.
Additionally, Squadron Energy has committed to a $200,000 annual community fund to support local initiatives and events.
The project’s developers have also prioritised meaningful engagement with the BKY Traditional Owners and the broader community.
Regular consultations, sponsorships of local events, and investments in telecommunications improvements highlight the commitment to fostering positive relationships throughout.
Such initiatives ensure that the benefits of the wind farm extend beyond electricity generation to enhance the social fabric of the region.
The engineering achievements of Clarke Creek Wind Farm are nothing short of extraordinary.
Each turbine in the first stage towers at 207m and boasts a capacity of 4.5 MW.
Supplied by Goldwind, these turbines are designed to optimise energy capture while withstanding the region’s environment.
Construction began in July 2022, with the first turbine installed in September 2023.
By November 2024, the project celebrated the installation of its 50th turbine.
Squadron said the wind farm is essential to the company’s mission of transforming Australia’s energy sector.
“We continue to replace ageing coal-fired power stations with green renewable energy,” the company said.
“Reaching this point in construction was a testament to the dedication of the many teams working together to deliver this significant project for Queensland’s energy transition.”
Stanwell, Queensland’s state-owned energy cooperation, has a 15-year Power Purchase Agreement with the wind farm.
Once operational, the company will purchase more than 75 per cent of the clean energy generated from the first stage of Clarke Creek Wind Farm, helping to secure Queensland’s clean energy future.
The Clarke Creek Wind Farm has also completed its generation registration with the Australian Energy Market Operator, marking off another step towards it being able to full integrate into Queensland’s power grid.
For more renewable and solar news, subscribe to ecogeneration.
This article featured in the February edition of ecogeneration.
For more renewable and solar news, subscribe to ecogeneration.