Regional economies to benefit as three NSW wind farms gain approval

The Federal Government has approved three new wind farms in New South Wales, adding more than 2,400 megawatts of renewable energy to the national grid. These projects are expected to create over 1,300 construction jobs and contribute to local economies through long-term investment.

The approved projects are the Liverpool Range Wind Farm, Spicers Creek Wind Farm, and Hills of Gold Wind Farm. Each has undergone state government processes, including community consultation, and includes conditions to protect local environments.

Located near Coolah in the Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone, the Liverpool Range Wind Farm is being developed by Tilt Renewables. With a capacity of 1,332 megawatts, it will generate enough electricity to power around 570,000 homes. The project will contribute over $6 million annually to the local economy through employment, landholder payments, and community benefit-sharing initiatives. Over its lifetime, the wind farm is expected to inject $95.47 million into the regional economy during construction and $33.8 million annually during operations. More than 80% of its wind turbine components will be recyclable when decommissioned.

Squadron Energy is leading the development of the Spicers Creek Wind Farm, which will be built west of Gulgong and northeast of Wellington in the Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone. The 700-megawatt project, consisting of up to 117 wind turbines and battery storage, received state approval in October 2024.

ENGIE’s Hills of Gold Wind Farm will be constructed near Nundle, spanning the Tamworth Regional Council, Upper Hunter Shire Council, and Liverpool Plains Shire Council areas. It will generate up to 372 megawatts, supplying approximately 1,000 gigawatt hours per year—enough to power 163,000 homes.

Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, stressed the importance of these projects in meeting Australia’s renewable energy targets. “I’ve now approved enough new renewable energy to power more than 10 million homes – nearly every single Australian household.”

The projects include conditions to protect native wildlife, such as height restrictions for turbines, limits on land clearing, and management plans for birds and bats.

Collectively, the three wind farms will reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 6.5 million tonnes annually, equivalent to removing over two million passenger vehicles from the road. Beyond environmental benefits, the projects are expected to provide ongoing employment and economic growth in their respective regions.

These approvals are part of the government’s broader push to accelerate renewable energy adoption in Australia, with 77 renewable energy projects now approved.