The Moonlight Range Wind Farm is a proposed wind farm development on Morinish South farmland, about 40 kilometres west of Rockhampton. The proposed site is on Rosewood Wycarbah Road, south of Glenroy Road, and is within the federal seat of Flynn, the state seat of Mirani, and the Local Government Area of Rockhampton Regional Council.
The project is designed to significantly contribute to the nation’s ambitious renewable energy targets by harnessing the abundant wind resources of the Rockhampton region. With meticulous attention to technical details and environmental considerations, the project aims to optimise its renewable energy generation while minimising its impact on the surrounding landscape.
The project proposes up to 97 turbines and a BESS which is strategically placed to maximise energy capture. Each turbine is expected to have a maximum tip height of 280 metres and, when operational, will generate up to 450MW, powering over 260,000 homes with renewable energy.
Once operational, the project will connect to the existing on site 275kV Powerlink transmission network to facilitate the distribution of clean energy.
AUSTRALIA AND QUEENSLAND’S TRANSITION TO RENEWABLES
The Moonlight Range Wind Farm will play a vital role in Queensland’s journey towards a greener, more sustainable energy future. Aligned with Queensland’s ambitious renewable energy targets, set to achieve 70% renewable energy by 2032 and 80% by 2035, as outlined in the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, this project represents a crucial step forward in reducing our carbon footprint and embracing cleaner energy sources.
Queensland’s commitment encourages investment and ensures the delivery of clean, reliable, and affordable energy while unlocking new opportunities for industry growth. With 54 large-scale renewable energy projects operational across the state since 2015, the sector has attracted over $11 billion in investment and created around 8,700 construction jobs, firmly establishing itself as a leader in renewable energy. This transition, coupled with Queensland’s extensive rooftop solar capacity, exceeding 10,000MW, is driving down electricity prices and contributing to a more sustainable energy mix, with approximately 27% of the state’s electricity now sourced from renewable sources.
Nationally, Australia holds firm in its commitment to combat climate change. It aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43% from 2005 levels by 2030, with the ultimate goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. To achieve this, the Australian Government prioritises transforming the country’s electricity supply, favouring renewable sources.
Project Timeline
ABOUT THE PLANNING PROCESS
Environmental sustainability is at the forefront of Greenleaf’s Project design. The planning process for the Moonlight Range Wind Farm involves multiple levels of assessment and approval.
The Queensland Government’s State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) oversees the development application process at the state level. This agency ensures compliance with the State Development Assessment Provisions (SDAP) State Code 23: Wind Farm Development, focusing on criteria such as air services safety, human health, environmental impact mitigation, and local area preservation.
Additionally, the project will undergo an assessment by the Federal Department of Climate Change. Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). This determines whether the project is classified as a Controlled Action (CA), Not a Controlled Action-Particular Manner (NCA-PM), or Not a Controlled Action (NCA), each with specific implications.
Local government approval is also required, necessitating compliance with development assessment requirements outlined in local planning schemes. This multi-faceted approach ensures thorough evaluation and adherence to regulatory standards at both state and federal levels, facilitating responsible development and environmental stewardship.
OVERALL PROJECT BENEFITS
The Moonlight Range Wind Farm project promises significant economic benefits to the region. It is expected to create approximately 300 jobs during peak construction, boosting local employment opportunities. Additionally, the wind farm will employ up to 10 permanent full-time staff upon completion, ensuring ongoing employment stability in the area.
To support local employment opportunities, the Project has developed a local procurement register and is exploring the establishment of a Workforce Fund to train locals in the skills required for wind farm operations.
Beyond job creation, the wind farm will contribute to economic diversification, strengthening the region’s economic base. Establishing a Community Benefit Fund, with an annual investment of at least $100,000 (determined by the final Project size), will ensure ongoing support for community initiatives. Managed by a committee of local members, this fund has the potential to sponsor various projects, such as education scholarships, community grants, energy efficiency programs, and even co-funding on more significant legacy initiatives, enhancing the region’s overall well-being and prosperity.
Through these initiatives, the Moonlight Range Wind Farm project will drive economic growth and build community development and empowerment, leaving a lasting positive impact on the area.
