A wait over windfarm

Albany Advertiser
Tuesday 20/5/2008 Page: 6

Mount Barker will have to wait at least another two years for its windfarm but preparations are still happening behind the scenes. SkyFarming technical director Andrew Woodroffe has been speaking with suppliers to determine which are the best turbines for the town and has been looking for investors for the project. At the moment, those involved are waiting for confirmation of a regional grant from the State government.

"Once we know that's happening and we get the go-ahead, we'll do a geotechnical investigation and hopefully start working with a major investor," Mr Woodroffe said.. "But we need that grant. Nothing can be done without it." There is a one and a half to two year wait for wind turbines worldwide due to high demand.

Mr Woodroffe said the wait will give his team the opportunity to have the civic and electric works in place by the time the parts are on the boat. "We'll now be looking at commissioning the windfarm at the end of 2009." Mr Woodroffe said.