The NSW Government has approved the Yanco Delta Wind Farm, a major step towards delivering clean, renewable energy to power approximately 700,000 homes per year in the state's South West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ). Developed by Virya Energy, the 1500MW wind farm will be located approximately 10km north-west of Jerilderie on a 33,000-hectare site spanning the Murrumbidgee and Edward River Local Government Areas.
The project includes the construction of 208 wind turbines, each with a maximum tip height of 270m, an 800MW battery energy storage facility and the necessary grid connection infrastructure. Following the public exhibition of the project's Environmental Impact Statement, which received widespread support, the Department of Planning and Environment has worked closely with local councils, residents and government agencies.
With an estimated annual reduction of 2.8 to 5 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, the Yanco Delta wind farm will make a significant contribution to the state's net zero targets and electricity infrastructure roadmap. To manage potential impacts, the project will be subject to strict conditions, including road upgrades and maintenance, implementation of management plans and a range of mitigation and adaptive management measures.