Energy developer AGL has acquired the development rights for a major wind farm north of Broken Hill, which could cost as much as $2.5 billion to develop.
The Silverton Wind Farm site already has development approval for 282 wind turbines in stage one and concept approval for a further 316 wind turbines in subsequent stages. Subject to electricity network capacity, AGL will develop up to 300MW in stage one, with the option for subsequent stages to bring the site capacity up to 1000MW.
One of the advantages of the site is its low population density, and the ability to locate large numbers of turbines well away from dwellings.
Subject to market conditions, construction is expected to commence next year and cost between $500 million and $700 million.
AGL has acquired the Silverton project from Germany’s Epuron and Macquarie Capital Wind Fund for an undisclosed sum.
