Overview
Neoen has been selected by Forestry Corporation to investigate the potential to develop a wind farm in its pine plantation in southern NSW’s Bondo region. Read the media release.
The aim is to investigate the opportunity for a wind farm which can power homes with clean energy, strengthen regional prosperity, and make a significant contribution to the state’s energy transition.
We are in the very early feasibility stage of development, and are planning to begin community engagement in mid-June 2024.
The project will go through all necessary government planning processes and will require Development Approval from the NSW Government. Scroll down to see the project lifecycle.
WIND
Wind turbines are tall structures that can capture stronger winds at higher altitudes. Modern turbines are generally between 250-290m in height.
Click map to enlarge
Location
The area being investigated is within the softwood plantations near Bondo, approximately 20-kms east of Tumut.
Located in a strong part of the electricity network, the site has three existing transmission lines running through it.
The investigation area falls within the boundaries of Snowy Valley Council, Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council and Yass Valley Council.
Combining forestry and wind
The Bondo plantations are suitable for a potential wind farm because they have: a strong wind resource, three existing transmission lines, and a large network of existing roads.
The project will use less than 0.7% of Forestry Corporation’s plantation land, and development will not occur in native forests.
Learn more about the NSW Government’s decision to allow renewable energy projects in its softwood plantations.
Neoen is an experienced owner & operator of renewable energy assets across Australia. The company also operates wind farms in the forests of Finland and Sweden.
Aerial view of Forestry Corporation’s softwood plantations at Bondo, near Tumut. Image courtesy of Forestry Corporation of NSW
Project name
Bondo Wind Farm is an early placeholder name for the project. We invite members of the local community to share ideas for naming the project during this initial period of engagement.
Project Lifecycle
1
Site Selection
In May 2024, Forestry Corporation awards Neoen a permit to investigate the feasibility to develop a wind farm on its pine plantation estate in the Bondo region of southern NSW. A competitive government tender process was conducted to identify a suitable partner.
2
Feasibility
We create preliminary designs and initiate feasibility studies to identify site constraints. We commence early engagement with Traditional Owners, neighbours, local councils and the community, and we will hold community information sessions locally.
- We Are Here
3
Planning & Approvals
Extensive studies & surveys are undertaken to create detailed project design before submitting a Development Application (DA) to the NSW Government. Ongoing community and governmental consultations help refine project plans. We initiate grid connection enquiries.
4
Post-Development Approval
If the DA is approved, we begin a procurement process to identify a construction partner. The application to secure grid connection is underway & we initiate discussions with potential energy customers.
5
Pre-Construction
We appoint our construction partner. Connection agreements & energy contracts are finalised; focus shifts to securing financing from lenders. A networking session is held for local jobseekers, suppliers & businesses to discuss upcoming opportunities.
6
Construction
The site mobilises, local suppliers & jobseekers are appointed, and civil, mechanical & electrical works commence. The project becomes a reality as the construction team builds and commissions the asset.
7
Operations
We will maintain the wind farm for at least 30 years to ensure strong energy generation & revenue optimisation. Our community benefit-sharing program begins contributing to local initiatives.
8
Decommissioning or Site Renewal
We decide on whether to continue operations or decommission the site. New construction works or site rehabilitation is undertaken.
Neoen has been contributing to Australia’s energy transition with 100% renewable energy since 2012.
With a balanced portfolio of wind, solar and big battery projects, we are aiming to achieve 10 GW by 2030. We own and operate all of the projects we build (rather than developing them to be sold) and as long-term neighbours we are committed to sharing the benefits with surrounding communities.
This dedication to community and environment has made us a renewable energy developer of choice in Australia.
