A large-scale renewable energy project in south west Victoria has cleared planning approvals to proceed.
The Victorian Government has approved the Kentbruck Green Power Hub near Nelson, allowing the major wind farm development in south west Victoria to move ahead following completion of the Environment Effects Statement process.
The 600-megawatt wind farm will include up to 105 turbines and generate around 2,000 gigawatt hours of renewable energy each year, enough to power approximately 380,000 homes.
The project is expected to create around 350 jobs during construction and 14 ongoing roles once operational, while also supporting the continued operation of the Portland Aluminium Smelter, one of the region’s largest employers.
The assessment process included extensive technical studies prepared by the proponent, along with a public exhibition period that allowed the community to review additional material and provide feedback.
A joint Inquiry and Advisory Committee then considered the Environment Effects Statement, public submissions and evidence presented during a 24-day public hearing, providing an independent review of the project.
The committee’s findings informed the final assessment, which concluded the project could proceed subject to further refinements and mitigation measures to ensure acceptable environmental outcomes.
These include stronger protections for endangered bird and bat species, including the potential removal of five turbines, as well as additional measures to manage landscape and visual impacts in specific locations.
Victorian Minister for Planning, Gabrielle Williams, said the project would deliver significant energy benefits for the state.
“This wind farm will deliver cheaper, cleaner power for hundreds of thousands of homes across Victoria,” Williams said.
“We’re getting on with helping deliver cleaner and cheaper energy projects, while also ensuring that environmental standards remain strong and safeguards are put in place.”
Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio, said the project would strengthen the state’s renewable energy supply.
“This wind farm will deliver more affordable, reliable energy for Victorian households by boosting renewable energy supply, we’re helping families keep their power bills down while securing our energy future,” D’Ambrosio said.
