Turbines for wind farm being secured

North Eastern Advertiser
Wednesday 4/7/2007 Page: 3

THE Minister for Energy, David Llewellyn has announced that the Musselroe Wind Farm is again heading in the right direction. Mr Llewellyn said all project rights, including the land agreement, for the project were secured last week. "Of course, the project would almost certainly be commission by now had the Federal Government accepted the findings of its own expert report and supported the Mandatory Renewable Energy Target. "Nevertheless the project is proceeding well, with strong support from the local council and community. "Currently, preconstruction activities are progressing well, including environmental surveys and transmission line mapping," Mr Llewellyn said.

Roaring 40s is now presently in negotiations for the remaining two key elements of the project, including: securing the turbine supply contract for the project; and securing suitable off-take arrangements for the project under the proposed New South Wales Renewable Energy Target. It is hoped that construction will commence in late 2007. The State Opposition welcomed the news.

Shadow Minister for Energy, Peter Gutwein, said the project has strong support from the local community and council. "It is good to see the $230 million project proceeding, with construction set to commence later this year," Mr Gutwein said. "At a time when there is uncertainty surrounding other investments in the State this project will boost investor confidence and provide economic benefits to the region. "It will also further develop Tasmania's renewable energy output," he said.