French-headquartered Neoen has officially inaugurated the Goyder South wind farm – an important chapter in the development of South Australia’s renewable energy tummy. This large utility-scale project features 75 modern wind turbines spread across the Mid North region. It will be absolutely essential to the state’s overarching aim of reaching 100% net renewable energy by 2027. With a full build out of Goyder South wind farm expected to produce around 1.5 terawatt-hours (TWh) of clean, renewable energy each year. This new output will greatly expand both the local and national markets for electricity.
The wind farm is built out in two phases and is now in full operation. It provides the energy to its customers via three long-term, fixed price, power purchase agreements. This includes a large 70 megawatt (MW) renewable energy baseload agreement with BHP and a 10-year agreement for 40 MW with Flow Power, an Australian electricity retailer. This project boosts the region’s energy production and represents Neoen’s commitment to sustainable development.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The construction of the new Goyder South wind farm has given a huge injection to the local economy. It employed more than 400 construction workers while developing the facility. This project alone has created 12 permanent, long-term positions. These positions will truly help us to “walk the talk” of our expanded focus on operations and maintenance.
The Goyder South investment has provided over A$100m in contracts and services to the local supply chain as well. This $37 million financial influx will help build growth, development, and prosperity in the surrounding neighborhoods. On top of that, it will create a huge local economic benefit.
“I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has helped bring this wind farm to life – our host landowners, the governments of South Australia and the ACT, and the Regional Council of Goyder, as well as ElectraNet, AEMO [Australian Energy Market Operator], BHP and Flow Power. We hope to continue our longstanding partnership for years to come!” – Neoen
Renewable Energy Leadership
The Goyder South wind farm, which contributes to the Goyder Renewables Zone. This hybrid renewable energy hub enhances already significant wind power production in South Australia. The project is expected to boost the pace of wind energy production in the state’s power market by more than 20%. This fits into a larger strategy to diversify our energy portfolio and move us away from a fossil fuel dependent past.
Tom Koutsantonis, South Australian Minister for Energy and Mining called the project exciting. He stressed its value in proving the superlative quality of wind resources in the area.
“Projects like Neoen’s Goyder South Wind Farm highlight the quality of the wind resource here in South Australia, and when combined with abundant solar, it becomes clear why renewable energy companies from around the world are lining up to invest in South Australia.” – Tom Koutsantonis
A Vision for Future Development
Neoen’s long-term commitment to the renewable energy sector is demonstrated by their strategic partnerships and reinvestment in developing projects, such as Goyder South. The new wind farm’s successful completion underscores how critical collaboration has been between stakeholders. That’s because it requires government entities and private companies to work hand in hand.
“It’s a great achievement,” commented Jean-Christophe Cheylus on the success, stressing the excellent quality of projects that come out from taking advantage of South Australia’s natural assets.
“Goyder South is a credit to the world-class wind resources of South Australia and to the team’s leadership in leveraging these to develop high-quality projects.” – Jean-Christophe Cheylus