AusNet Services, together with their partner Consolidated Power Projects Australia Pty Ltd (CPP), will begin early works immediately. “This is a significant step for the HiIls of Gold Wind Farm,” ENGIE Managing Director Renewables, Australia and SE Asia, Mr Thierry Kalfon said.

“Early planning of the infrastructure works will optimise the project design and give a clearer picture of the local employment and services that will be required to safely deliver the project. As always, we are committed to engaging with the local community on what construction and operation of the wind farm will look like.”

AusNet and CPP’s scope will include connecting the 420 MW Hills of Gold Wind Farm to the National Electricity Market, constructing a new switching station, 330kV overhead transmission line, 33kV/330kV collector substation and various internal civil and electrical works.

“As part of these early works, AusNet and CPP will be progressing designs of the civil and electrical works required, such as transmission lines, collector stations, transformers, crane pads and hard stands for use in construction, foundations for the turbines and designs of access routes across the sites” Mr Kalfon said.

“AusNet was chosen as the preferred partner after demonstrating a high commitment to engaging with local communities, being able to meet ENGIE’s high standards around a local and Indigenous employment plan, a strong safety performance and the strength and expertise within the partnership with CPP.”

“We’re pleased to be recognised by ENGIE as being able to deliver on their high standards,” AusNet’s Chief Development Officer, Mr Jon D’Sylva said.

“As an industry leader at the forefront of the energy transition, we look forward to applying our transmission expertise and grid connections experience to this significant NSW project.”

Once constructed, and with the backing of ENGIE’s local and global expertise in renewable energy, the Hills of Gold Wind Farm will supply up to 1,000 gigawatt hours per annum, the equivalent energy to power 182,000 average Australian homes.