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Local power boost for Wonthaggi
Power shortages in Wonthaggi could become a thing of the past once the Wonthaggi Wind Farm begins operating.
The green power will be transmitted directly to the Wonthaggi sub-station and the electricity generated will be used in the local community. The wind farm will generate power 70 to 80% of the time, providing electricity for up to 6000 homes.
The wind farm will save 42000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year and is equivalent to planting around 60,000 trees or taking 10,000 cars off the road.
The wind farm is due to be operational by the end of 2003 and Wind Power, the company developing the farm is keen to involve the community by setting up the Wonthaggi Wind Farm Co-op and inviting local people to buy shares.
The co-op will be made up of local residents who will own a percentage of the wind farm with dividends returned to co-op members. Shares can also be traded within the co-op.
The co-op will have an opportunity to run a tourist venture on the wind farm site. Tourism might include tours of the wind farm, a kiosk and other things residents want to promote. Tourist ventures have already proven to be both successful and profitable in Albany, Western Australia and Coddrington in Victoria. Profits made from tourism will belong to co-op shareholders.
This is seen as an effective way to grow wealth in the local community and Wonthaggi residents will enjoy using green power supplied while the wind blows.
The wind farm will cost approximately $20 million to construct, $4 million of which will be spent locally with local traders and sub-contractors. Up to 16 construction jobs will be created and after construction, the Wonthaggi Wind Farm will need continuous maintenance and will be part of a new industry in South Gippsland.
Wonthaggi had the very first coal-fired electricity station outside Melbourne and now it will have its own electrical power supply once again.
Wind Power is hoping to work with the Wonthaggi Landcare Groups in some new planting of native vegetation and some protective fencing out of existing native vegetation to stop the degradation caused by cattle and sheep.
Stephen Buckle
Wind Power Pty Ltd