Overview
The Mount Hopeful Wind Farm and Battery Project is a major renewable energy development proposed for Central Queensland, spanning the Rockhampton and Banana Shire areas.
This project will take advantage of some of the best wind resources in the state to provide clean and affordable electricity. Thanks to its strategic location on the national electricity network, the project will also be able to provide services to stabilise the grid.
The project has been approved for the installation of up to 63 wind turbines and a battery system with an indicative storage capacity of 550 MW, capable of providing up to four hours of backup power. Development approvals were granted by the Queensland Government in 2022 and by the Australian Government in 2024.
Click map to enlarge
Location
The project is located near the towns of Mount Morgan and Bajool, and lies approximately:
- 50km south of Rockhampton
- 60km north of Biloela; and
- 70km west of Gladstone.
The project site will stretch across the municipal boundary of Rockhampton and Banana region, on land currently used for cattle grazing.
The location was selected because it is very windy and is close to electricity transmission lines.
Benefits
FOR LOCAL ECONOMY
Regional economic boost during construction period plus a number of ongoing jobs
For your community
There will be a benefit-sharing scheme will be created for local community initiatives
Project Lifecycle
1
Site Selection
We undertake research & early negotiations with landowners for options to lease or purchase sites that show potential for hosting renewable energy assets.
2
Feasibility
We create preliminary designs & initiate feasibility studies to identify site constraints. We commence early engagement with Traditional Owners, neighbours, local council and the community. We hold community information sessions locally.
3
Planning & Approvals
Extensive studies & surveys are undertaken to create detailed project design before submitting a Development Application (DA) to the QLD Government. Ongoing community and governmental consultations help refine project plans. We initiate grid connection enquiries.
4
Pre-Construction
If the DA is approved, we conduct a procurement process to appoint a construction contractor. Grid connection agreements & energy contracts get finalised, and our focus shifts to securing financing from lenders. A networking session is held for local jobseekers, suppliers & businesses to discuss upcoming opportunities.
5
Construction
The site mobilises, local suppliers & jobseekers are appointed, and civil, mechanical & electrical works commence. The project becomes a reality as the construction team builds and commissions the wind asset.
6
Operations
We maintain the asset for at least 25 years to ensure strong energy generation & revenue optimisation. Our community benefit-sharing program begins contributing to local initiatives.
7
Decommissioning or Site Renewal
We decide on whether to continue operations or decommission the site. New construction works or site rehabilitation is undertaken.
News
We have experienced a very open, transparent and pragmatic communication process with Neoen. We are asked about every decision that may impact us and for our opinion, and this is something that we value highly.
Florian Popp, Host Landowner
Collie Battery, WA
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With a balanced portfolio of wind, solar and big battery projects, we are Australia’s largest 100% renewables company.
We own and operate many of our projects for the long-term and are committed to sharing the benefits with surrounding communities as a responsible neighbour. Our dedication to the community and environment has made us a ‘developer of choice’ and a pioneer in the industry.
Since 2012, we have contributed over 4.5 GW of renewable energy & storage assets and invested over $7 billion towards Australia’s energy transition.