Ararat Wind Farm switches on to full capacity

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, Victorian Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio and Member for Wannon Dan Tehan MP attended the ceremony alongside Ararat Rural City Council Mayor, Cr Paul Hooper to mark the completion of construction and commencement of full operations.

“This is a local community that is proud, and should be proud, of the contribution they have made to our state,” Premier Andrews said.

“We’ve been proud to back the Ararat Wind Farm every step of the way. This project is not only delivering the clean energy we need but helping to power new jobs in Western Victoria.

“We want Victoria to be at the forefront of renewable energy and the many jobs it will create.”

RES Australia chief operating officer Matt Rebbeck announced at the opening that a community grants program has been set up on the back of the Ararat Wind Farm completion which will support local causes. A total of $65,000 worth of grants will be distributed this year across Northern Grampians and Pyrenees shires and the Ararat Rural City. Over the 25-year period an estimated $2.7 million will be put towards environmental sustainability initiatives and cultural activities.

The Ararat Wind Farm is now the third largest wind farm in the Southern Hemisphere.

"The arrival of the first blades for the Ararat Wind Farm last June was a monumental occasion and today's official opening is even more exciting," Cr Hooper said.

"Over the last 12 months, we have seen the towers popping up across Ararat's horizon and with each new tower the decade-long vision of RES has been recognised.

"Statistics have shown the Ararat Wind Farm has already had a very positive impact on our economy and the creation of 51 jobs means the benefits for our community will be ongoing."

Further details regarding the wind farm and construction progress can be found on the project website: www.ararat-windfarm.com