Pykes Hill, 5km north-east of Ballan, is intended to be the site of Future Energy’s next wind farm development in Victoria. Once operational the three wind turbines will produce enough renewable energy annually to power over 3,000 households. For the latest information on this project see www.pykeshillwindfarm.com.au
Studies indicate that the site is very suitable for a small wind farm because it has undisturbed wind flow with strong, consistent wind speeds; good setbacks from urban residences, tourist attractions and major roadways; terrain primarily used for grazing and cropping therefore minimal impact on flora or fauna; proximity to the electrical grid; and easy access to the site.
Following community consultation, an application for Development Approval was lodged with the Moorabool Shire Council in January 2010.
| Energy and Greenhouse benefits | ||
|---|---|---|
| Renewable energy production per annum | 18,000 MWh | |
| Equivalent number of households | 3,400 | |
| Greenhouse gas abatement | 18,000 tonnes CO2 | |
| Equivalent number of cars off the road | 4,150 | |
| Equivalent number of trees planted | 26,850 | |
| Specifications | ||
| Turbines | 3 x 2 MW wind turbines | |
| Rated Capacity | 6 MW | |
| Energy generated annually | Approx. 18,000 MWh p.a. | |
| Approvals | ||
| Fauna | Study completed | |
| Flora | Study completed | |
| Noise | Study completed | |
| Heritage | Study completed | |
| Landscape assessment | Study completed | |
| Wind resource | ||
| Average wind speed | Approx 8 metres/sec | |
| Source | Expert modeling |