Australia’s Largest Wind Farm Plans Revised with Solar and Battery Integration

Revised Plans for Major Wind and Solar Energy Hub in Queensland

The ambitious project to create the largest wind farm on Australia’s primary grid has been revised. The new plans now incorporate a significant solar energy installation alongside a four-hour battery storage system, strategically positioned next to a key transmission line in northern Queensland.

This week, Renewable Energy Partners (REP) launched the website for the proposed Bogunda Energy Hub, following nearly two years since they initially revealed plans to establish up to 5 gigawatts of wind energy south-east of Hughenden.

Hybrid Renewable Energy Hub Development

The project has evolved into a hybrid energy hub, which will feature up to 850 megawatts (MW) of wind power, 500 MW of solar output, and a battery energy storage system (BESS) of 500 MW capacity. This hub will be adjacent to the expansive CopperString transmission project designed to link Queensland’s North West Minerals Province to the main electricity grid.

REP highlights that the venture, which carries a name signifying “big wind” in the Yirandhali language, is currently in its initial development stages. Ecological surveys and studies for grid connection options are anticipated to commence soon.

Strategic Location and Community Engagement

The site’s prime location near Powerlink’s CopperString project, expected to be finalised by 2032 (pending approvals), provides a vital link for North West Queensland to the National Electricity Market (NEM), according to the website.

Once completed, the project, which will include 136 wind turbines along with over 714,000 solar panels and the battery system, aims to generate sufficient electricity to supply more than 500,000 households across Queensland.

REP expresses a commitment to developing solid connections with local residents, landowners, First Nations peoples, and the broader Hughenden and Flinders Shire community. The website reassures that as progress is made, there will be numerous chances for community members to engage, ask questions, and contribute their feedback.

A Community Benefit Fund is set to be established, aimed at supporting local initiatives, non-profits, sports clubs, and educational institutions. This initiative will persist through the phases of development, construction, and ongoing operations, designed to yield enduring benefits aligned with the community’s needs and priorities.