Studland Bay Wind Farm

Client: Roaring 40s
Location: Tasmania, Australia
Date: 1999 - 2005

Developing a wind farm from feasibility studies through to operation, adding valuable renewable energy generation capacity.

Background

The Studland Bay Wind Farm consists of 25 x 3 MW wind turbines, adding 75 MW to Tasmania’s small supply of wind-generated energy, which supplements the state’s dominant hydropower generation. The wind farm is situated near coastal farm land on the far north-west tip of Tasmania, close to the Woolnorth Wind Farm, making use of the high-quality wind resource available at this location.

Solution

Entura was engaged by the client to assess feasibility and develop the final wind farm design, secure environmental approvals, and manage and audit construction.

A risk management process was undertaken to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals and progress the contractual arrangements to a stage to support preparation of a development business case.

Technical feasibility included wind resource modelling, wind farm site selection, wind turbine selection, geological assessment, transmission line and switchyard project design, preliminary cost estimates, economic and risk analysis.

Entura managed the environmental impact assessment and approvals process for the wind farm and the transmission line. Key issues identified included bird collision risk and management strategies, vegetation management, visual effects, transmission line siting and stakeholder issues. Innovative techniques were developed to meet the legal requirements for environmental protection and biodiversity conservation, triggered by the presence of threatened and migratory bird species.

The transmission line route was determined using leading-edge GIS modelling to determine the corridors with the lowest social and environmental impact, which were further optimised through extensive liaison with land-owners and other stakeholders.

Entura’s contract and procurement services on the project included calling for expressions of interest, pre-qualification of wind turbine suppliers, plus construction packaging and supervision.

Outcome

The Studland Bay Wind Farm was successfully designed and constructed, and has operated since 2007, supplying wind generation into the Tasmanian power system.

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