State Government Withdraws Support for Central Queensland Wind Farm
The state government of Queensland has recently withdrawn its support for the proposed Moah Creek Wind Farm, indicating that it does not conform to its current energy roadmap. This wind energy project, put forth by Central Queensland Power (CQP), aimed to establish 60 turbines approximately 30 kilometers west of Rockhampton, capable of supplying power to nearly 200,000 homes.
Details on Moah Creek Wind Farm
CleanCo, a publicly owned supplier, was involved as a partner in the Moah Creek Wind Farm initiative. However, the organization announced on Wednesday that after reviewing ongoing projects, the wind farm did not fit with its strategic objectives, commercial portfolio, and priorities due to evolving energy market dynamics. As a result, CleanCo has decided to withdraw from all aspects of the Moah Creek project’s development.
Future of Moah Creek Wind Farm
- CleanCo remains in discussions with CQP regarding possible future collaboration.
- The former Palaszczuk government initially partnered with CQP in October 2023 to develop the project.
- CQP is a joint venture formed by Energy Estate and Renewable Energy Systems.
The Moah Creek project secured federal funding through the Australian Government Capacity Investment Scheme in October of the previous year, although the exact funding amount has not been disclosed. Despite CleanCo’s withdrawal, CQP plans to continue moving forward with the project, underscoring its strong position in the current market.
Community Reactions and Concerns
Local landowner Nick Holland, who lives near the proposed site, expressed relief over CleanCo’s withdrawal. He had previously submitted a petition with over 1,000 signatures urging the government to halt the wind farm’s development. Residents like Holland emphasized concerns regarding the potential visual impacts, construction disruption, and environmental considerations affecting the local community.
New Developments in Wind Energy Partnerships
Immediately following CleanCo’s decision regarding Moah Creek, the Crisafulli government announced a new partnership. CleanCo entered a 10-year agreement with Windlab to secure 75% of the energy output from Kennedy Energy Park, scheduled to begin in 2028. This wind farm is located near Hughenden and comprises a 12-turbine, 43-megawatt wind facility along with more than 55,000 solar panels and significant battery storage capacity.
Historical Context and Legislative Changes
Historically, last year saw the state government cancel a $1 billion wind farm project located 40 kilometers west of Rockhampton, just five months after it received state approval. Comparatively, Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest’s Clarke Creek Wind Farm, featuring 100 turbines and a similar budget, successfully opened after three years of construction. This project had been approved prior to new legislation changes initiated by the LNP state government, which now mandates community consultations for future energy developments.
The Moah Creek Wind Farm remains under federal assessment according to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act, having already received initial state approval this year.
