Origin Energy Limited has signed an agreement with Virya Energy for the acquisition of Yanco Delta Wind Farm, located in the South West Renewable Energy Zone of New South Wales. The project includes a 1.5 GW wind farm and an 800 MWh battery, making it one of the largest and most advanced in the region.
Location and strategic infrastructures
The wind farm development is located on a 33,000-hectare site northwest of Jerilderie, in the Riverina district, adjacent to key transmission infrastructure. This strategic location facilitates the integration and efficiency of the project into the existing energy network.
Approval and progress
The project received development approval from the New South Wales government in December 2023 and EPBC approval in February 2024. With these essential regulatory approvals in place, Yanco Delta is preparing to enter a significant phase of infrastructure and transmission development.
Financial implications and community involvement
The purchase of Yanco Delta includes an upfront payment of $125 million to Virya Energy and an additional variable payment of up to $175 million, conditional on the achievement of certain development milestones. Origin is considering various capital financing options for the construction, including partnerships with capital providers.
Frank Calabria, CEO of Origin, emphasizes that this investment represents a major step in the company’s transition to cleaner energy. Origin plans to contract almost all of the park’s output to meet its customers’ energy needs, integrating Yanco Delta into a growing portfolio that also includes Walcha Energy projects and the Northern Tablelands Wind Farm development.
