Wind turbines are designed to convert wind into mechanical energy by rotating the turbine blades. Each wind turbine comprises a set of three blades called a rotor which is affixed to the top of a tower. When the wind blows, it sets the rotor into motion, and a steel shaft connects it to a generator that transforms the energy from the wind into electricity. Typically standing between 120 and 170 meters tall, commercial turbine towers house the generator within a structure known as the nacelle, positioned atop the tower. Motors within the nacelle automatically adjust the rotor’s orientation to face the oncoming wind, maximising energy capture. Furthermore, each rotor blade is continuously adjusted by a motor to harness the most favourable wind conditions.

The energy yield of a wind turbine is significantly influenced by the wind speed, leading to the placement of wind farms in areas with strong and consistent winds. Generally, wind speed increases with the height above ground. Therefore, increasing the height of a wind turbine, as well as the length of its blades, can make a significant difference to a wind farm’s energy output.

When determining whether sites are suitable for wind turbines, we take into consideration a number of factors, including the following:

• Wind Resource: An excellent wind farm site is characterised by consistently strong and predictable wind speeds. Open areas such as farmland, ridges, and coastal regions often provide optimal conditions for harnessing wind energy. The average wind speed is a crucial factor. Wind farms typically perform better in areas with higher average wind speeds, ensuring a steady and reliable energy output.
• Wind Turbulence: Sites with minimal wind turbulence are preferable. Turbulence, caused by obstacles like buildings or hills, can reduce the efficiency and lifespan of wind turbines.
• Land Use Compatibility: Identifying sites that allow for the coexistence of wind farms with other land uses, such as agriculture, is crucial. Proper spacing of turbines and consideration of existing land uses ensure harmony with the local environment.
• Community Acceptance: Gaining community support is crucial for the success of a wind farm project. Engaging with local communities, addressing concerns, and providing tangible benefits, contribute to positive community relations.
• Geographical Features: Coastal areas, hills, and ridges can enhance wind flow, making these locations suitable for wind farm installations. However, dense forests or complex terrain may disrupt wind patterns. Flat or gently rolling terrain is often preferred for ease of construction and maintenance. Steep slopes or challenging topography may increase operational complexity.
• Environmental Impact: Conducting thorough environmental impact assessments is essential to minimise the impact on local ecosystems, wildlife, landowners, neighbours and nearby communities. Preservation of biodiversity and minimal disturbance to the natural environment are key considerations.
• Infrastructure Accessibility: Proximity to existing infrastructure, including roads and power lines, simplifies the construction and operation of a wind farm. Well-developed infrastructure helps reduce costs and facilitates grid connection. Proximity to a robust transmission network is important for efficiently delivering the generated electricity to consumers.
• Regulatory and Zoning Considerations: Compliance with local regulations and zoning requirements is essential. Obtaining permits and adhering to guidelines ensures a smooth and legally compliant development process.

A combination of favourable wind conditions, environmental sustainability, community support, and logistical considerations defines an ideal site for a wind farm. Comprehensive assessments and careful planning ensure the successful development and long-term viability of the project.

Most wind farm developments have occurred on land where the wind farm developer has approached the landholder. There are, however, examples of wind farms occurring where a wind farm developer has first been approached by a landholder. However, landholders should be aware that the not all “windy” sites are suitable for a wind farm development.

Wind turbines can vary in size, however they generally have a tip height between 180 meters to 275 meters in Australia. With approximately 500 to 1,000 metres spacing between each turbine.

For the Wandoo Wind Farm, turbine size and height will be determined following analysis of many factors such as power output, make and model availability, noise and visual impacts. Currently we are exploring wind turbines of around 150 to 175m Hub height with blades at a length of around 90 meters.

The land required for a wind farm is generally minimal. Land is required for the tower and access roads running between each turbine. The permanent gravel hardstand area around wind turbines is typically 0.25ha (80m x 30m) in size, with temporary laydown areas adjacent to the hardstand typically requiring a further 0.2ha (100m x 20m) per turbine during construction.  Access roads between wind turbines are typically 7.5m wide, with spacing between turbines typically 500m to 1,000m apart. Depending on the scale of the wind farm, one or more electricity substations may also need to be established, which may include a battery compound. Wind farms typically also require a permanent operations and maintenance facility to house spares, and for the operations and maintenance personnel to be based out of.

Electrical cabling is buried underground (usually alongside access roads) at a depth of around 1m. These cables are covered with mechanical protection to ensure that they remain safe for cropping activities above them. Transmission lines from the substation to the main electricity grid require transmission towers spaced every 200m to 500m (or more) depending on the connection voltage and terrain.

Host landholders generally find that wind farm development does not significantly impact farm operations as cropping can occur between wind turbines and transmission towers, and new access roads provide additional all weather access to their farm.

Remuneration from hosting wind turbines far outweighs any loss of production. Often infrastructure can also be located to minimise farming production loss (such as by siting turbines and roads on less productive areas of the farm or adjacent to existing fences and vegetation).

Wind farms do not use water nor is there any significant risk of ground water contamination.

During the construction phase there may be short-term land access restrictions. Stock will need to be excluded from construction areas and new fencing may be required. This can, however, provide an opportunity for development of laneway systems for stock movement.

Wind farms can be constructed in a variety of locations, but their viability depends on several critical factors. Foremost among these considerations is the presence of strong and consistent wind. Areas with open landscapes such as farmland, coastal regions, and elevated terrains often offer optimal wind conditions for effective energy generation. Geographical features, such as hills and ridges, can enhance wind flow, while obstacles like dense forests or large structures can impede it. Environmental impact assessments are imperative to address potential effects on ecosystems, wildlife, landowners and local communities.

Additionally, regulatory requirements, land use compatibility, infrastructure accessibility, and community acceptance play critical roles in determining suitable locations for wind farm installations. While advancements in technology have broadened the possibilities, careful planning and consideration of these factors are essential to ensure the successful deployment of wind farms.

The construction timeframe depends on the project size and the number of workers deployed on site. For the Wandoo Wind Farm we are envisioning 24 months for construction of the wind farm including access roads.

The Wandoo Wind Farm is envisioned to operate for 30 years. Nearing the end of this period a decision will be made whether the wind farm will be decommissioned and all infrastructure above the ground removed, or if new turbines will be installed for a further 30 years.

At the end of the Wandoo Wind Farm projects life cycle, the wind farm will be decommissioned, wind turbines and all above ground infrastructure are removed, and the site rehabilitated to its former land use.

Many wind farm components (such as the steel towers) can be recycled, and there is exciting research being conducted into recycling wind turbine blades and other end of life processes for other components. We will continue to provide more detailed, fact-based information on decommissioning plans as the project progresses.

A single modern wind turbine can produce enough energy to supply up to 3,500 average Western Australia households every year.

Wind energy projects create lots of jobs during the construction period, and then ongoing jobs for the lifetime of the wind farm.

For the Wandoo Wind Farm, although we are still in the early stages of development, it is predicted based on other similar sized wind farms that there will be approximately 300 workers during peak construction phase, and 10-20 for the day-to-day running of the wind farm.

The cost of wind energy has been decreasing steadily over the years, making it competitive with traditional sources of energy generation. Several factors contribute to the economics of wind energy:

• Technological Advances: Advances in wind turbine technology have significantly increased efficiency and reduced the costs associated with manufacturing, installation, and maintenance. Larger and more efficient turbines can generate more electricity at a lower cost per unit.
• Economies of Scale: As the wind energy industry has grown, there has been an increase in the scale of wind farms. Larger projects benefit from economies of scale, driving down the overall cost of electricity production.
• Decreasing Capital Costs: The initial capital costs of constructing wind farms have been decreasing, making the development of wind farms more financially feasible.
• Competitive Bidding: Many electricity markets, including the Western Australian electricity market, use competitive bidding processes for electricity supply, including energy supplied from wind farms. This approach encourages developers to offer the lowest possible prices to secure contracts, fostering a more cost-effective industry.
• Low Operating Costs: Once a wind farm is operational, the ongoing operating and maintenance costs are relatively low compared to other forms of electricity generation. Additionally, the fuel for wind energy – the wind itself – is free, eliminating fuel costs.

While the overall trend is towards decreasing costs, it’s important to note that the specific costs can vary depending on factors such as project size, location, local wind conditions, and transmission connection.

The decreasing costs and growing community support for wind energy contribute to its attractiveness as a sustainable and economically viable option for power generation.

Modern wind turbines are very reliable thanks to improvements in their design, technology, and manufacturing. These wind turbines have better aerodynamics than earlier wind turbines, which helps them capture more energy from the wind. They are made with high-quality materials and precise engineering, making parts like the blades, towers, generators, and gearboxes last longer.

Modern wind turbines are equipped with systems that constantly check their performance, allowing for early detection of any issues. Predictive maintenance helps fix problems before they affect the wind turbine’s reliability. Remote monitoring and control also allow for quick adjustments and responses to any faults.

Advances in technology, better warranty and service agreements, and strict industry standards have all contributed to the increased reliability and lifespan of modern wind turbines. These developments make wind energy a dependable and sustainable source of electricity.

Even though wind conditions can change and affect the amount of power generated, wind turbines are highly efficient when placed in good locations. Wind energy in combination with energy storage and other forms of renewable energy generation provide the ideal energy mix to support demand.

Fires in or around wind farms are not a common occurrence, with the industry maintaining a strong focus on safety and preventive measures. While wind farms themselves are not known for causing fires, incidents may arise due to factors such as electrical malfunctions, mechanical failures, lightning strikes, or human activities. Modern wind turbines are equipped with advanced safety features to mitigate these risks, and routine inspections and maintenance protocols are implemented to ensure the integrity of the equipment. The wind industry adheres to stringent guidelines and works closely with local authorities to address safety concerns, emphasising the importance of minimising potential fire risks for local farms and their surrounding communities.

As all high-voltage connections for wind turbines are run underground, the risk of electricity-related fire is extremely low. The fire control methods for wind farms are the same as those used for all other high-voltage electrical assets. Each wind turbine is also fitted with a comprehensive lightning protection system that safely transfers any high voltages or currents directly to the earth without affecting turbine performance.

There is no recorded instance of lightning strikes to wind turbines or monitoring masts causing a bushfire in Australia.

The risks to bird life from wind farms are generally considered minimal due to several mitigating factors. Modern wind farm planning incorporates careful site selection to avoid placing wind turbines in known flight paths and areas where there is high avian activity, and environmental impact assessments are conducted to understand and address potential concerns. Furthermore, ongoing research contributes to a better understanding of bird behaviour and migration patterns, facilitating the development of effective mitigation strategies. While bird collisions with turbine blades do occasionally occur, the overall impact on bird populations is comparatively low when compared to other threats, such as building collisions, domestic cats, and vehicle strikes. The wind industry remains committed to sustainability and wildlife conservation, continuously refining practices to further reduce any potential risks to birdlife.

Wind turbines can generate some noise, but the level of noise is generally considered low, especially when compared to other sources of noise in our daily lives. The noise produced by a wind turbine primarily comes from the mechanical components, such as the rotor blades and the gearbox, as well as the aerodynamic interaction of the blades with the wind.

Advancements in technology and engineering have led to quieter wind turbine designs. Modern wind turbines are designed to minimise noise through various measures, including improved blade aerodynamics, reduced rotational speeds, and enhanced gear systems. Additionally, the distance between wind turbines and residential areas is carefully considered during the development phase of the project to further reduce potential noise impacts.

It’s worth noting that individual sensitivity to noise varies, and what one person finds acceptable, another may find bothersome. Some people living in close proximity to wind farms have reported hearing a faint swishing or humming sound, similar to the sound of distant traffic, the ocean or a running refrigerator. However, this noise is required to be at a level that is below the limits set by regulatory standards.

Overall, while wind turbines do produce some noise, efforts are made to minimise it, and projects are developed so that the sound that can be heard at nearby houses is within acceptable levels according to established guidelines and regulations.

The location of the Wandoo Wind Farm was carefully selected to minimise environmental disturbance to existing flora and fauna. The land is predominantly cleared for broad acre agricultural purposes and wherever possible the location of wind turbines and associated infrastructure is proposed to be in these cleared areas, away from areas of high conservation significance. Wind turbine siting is optimised to minimise the impact on existing vegetation, maximise the capture of wind energy and meet the long-term requirements of the landowner for ongoing farming activities.