Mainstream Renewable Power and Someva Renewables obtain a permit from the Forestry Corporation of New South Wales to explore the creation of a 500MW wind farm at Sunny Corner. Located halfway between Lithgow and Bathurst, this innovative project could power around 300,000 homes while avoiding the emission of over one million tonnes of carbon every year. The project is the result of a 15-month competitive selection process, marking a crucial stage in the implementation of renewable energies in thestate‘s forest plantations. The Sunny Corner State Forest, traditionally used for softwood production, is particularly well suited to wind farms thanks to its vast expanse and proximity to existing power lines and road networks.
Community consultation and planning
The next stages of the project include the installation of a measuring mast and consultation with local communities, indigenous peoples, forest users, municipal councils and local businesses. This phase aims to understand the local environment and co-design a community benefits program. Once these consultations have been completed, the project will go through the normal development process, seeking planning approvals from the NSW Government. Mary Quaney, CEO of Mainstream, praised Forestry Corporation’s vision in diversifying land use to support the energy transition. “We recognize the important role the Sunny Corner wind farm could play in New South Wales’ energy transition, providing clean, affordable and reliable energy,” she said.
Economic and environmental impact
The Sunny Corner project promises to boost regional prosperity in New South Wales by stimulating the local economy and creating jobs. Jamie Chivers, Someva’s Managing Director, expressed his enthusiasm for working on this innovative project. “This is a landmark project for New South Wales and an example of how renewable energy developments can enhance regional prosperity,” he said. The Forestry Corporation of New South Wales, represented by its CEO Anshul Chaudhary, also expressed its satisfaction with the award of the permit. “After a highly competitive selection process, this project will be one of four wind farms to be explored in a softwood plantation in the state,” he said. The permits issued follow amendments to the Forestry Act 2012 by the New South Wales Parliament, allowing state forests to host renewable energy projects. It also demonstrates the importance of innovation and collaboration in achieving a clean and resilient energy future.
