The Coopers Gap windfarm near Kingaroy has begun generating electricity, with 50 of the site’s 123 giant turbines installed.

AGL said it remained on track for completion this financial year of what is Australia’s largest wind farm.

“We’re pleased to announce that the Coopers Gap Wind Farm is generating electricity into the National Electricity Market,” AGL general manager development and construction Dave Johnson said.

“This is a significant milestone which is a credit to the hard work of everyone involved in this $850 million project including the owner, the Powering Australian Renewables Fund (PARF), and the construction consortium, GE – Catcon.

“It’s also important to acknowledge the support received from the Queensland Government, the Western Downs and South Burnett regional councils and local landowners.

“The assistance of the Australian Energy Market Operator and Powerlink Queensland was particularly valuable in completing the connection of the wind farm to the grid.”

At full capacity the 453MW wind farm will generate enough renewable energy to power 264,000 average Australian homes.

“Importantly, the project is creating up to 200 jobs created at the peak of construction, with a significant amount of money spent with local businesses and contractors, and up to 20 jobs once operational,” Mr Johnson said.

Queensland Natural Resources, Mines and Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham inspected the project at the event today. (See video HERE)