Case Studies

CLEMENTS GAP WIND FARM

In a region where mini turbines provided the first electricity to homesteads in the mid 60s, it makes sense that the mid north of South Australia today is now home to a number of large-scale wind energy projects.

The 56.7MW Clements Gap wind farm, officially opened in February 2010, was the 11th wind farm in the state to begin operation.

Located along the top of the Barunga ranges, south of Port Pirie and consisting of 27 Suzlon turbines, the project was championed by local farmers who originally invited Australian owned renewable energy company, Pacific Hydro, to investigate the site.

After years of studies at the site which included investigations into the wind resource, local flora and fauna and indigenous cultural heritage, the project was finally ready to begin construction in 2008.

All contractors employed during the 12 month construction phase were from South Australian based businesses. And as many contractors as possible came from the local and surrounding area. 

“The success of this project is thanks the unwavering enthusiasm from the local community, fantastic support from progressive local and state governments and 425 South Australians who helped build the project ”, said Mr Crockett, Australian general manager for Pacific Hydro, at the opening of the company’s first wind farm in South Australia.

But well after construction has finished onsite, ongoing benefits from the company’s grants program continue to flow into the local community.

The grants program, known as the Sustainable Communities Fund, returns a portion of revenue from the operation of the wind farm back into local community organisations. The program, which is delivered in consultation with local council, community members and other funding bodies, aims to support local community priorities that are supporting programs that encourage local sustainability and social cohesion.

Already over $100,000 has been distributed to 27 local groups. Over the life of the project this contribution is expected to grow to over $1million.

Four full time electricians are employed to ensure regular servicing of the turbines and maintenance of the project, while specialist contractors are employed as needed to manage other aspects of the project’s operation including revegetation work.

Case study provided by Pacific Hydro