General News
15 October, 2026
Warracknabeal wind farm clears state approval
The largest wind farm in the southern hemisphere could be built in the Wimmera after the Victorian Government approved the Warracknabeal Energy Park.
The largest wind farm in the southern hemisphere could be built in the Wimmera after the Victorian Government approved the Warracknabeal Energy Park.
Planning minister Sonya Kilkenny approved the 219-turbine wind farm, marking the last stage of approvals for the State government.
However, the project still requires approval from the federal environment minister, Senator Murray Watts.
The wind farm would cover about 26,000 hectares of agricultural land located about 5km west of Warracknabeal.
WestWind Energy managing director Tobias Geiger said the approval marked a significant landmark for the organisation.
“Today's announcement is an important milestone for the Warracknabeal Energy Park and reflects a decade of detailed planning, technical assessment and engagement with the local community,” he said.
“Projects of this scale have the potential to make a substantial contribution to Victoria's future energy supply, support regional economic development and attract further investment in renewable energy and associated infrastructure.
“We are particularly grateful to the landholders, community members and local stakeholders who have engaged with us throughout the development process.
“Their contribution has been invaluable in shaping the project.”
It is understood the project would create more than 900 construction jobs and 35 ongoing operational jobs.
The $5 billion project aims to generate 1.5 gigawatts, almost 12 per cent of the state's energy needs.
The site would also host two 300-megawatt battery energy storage systems, which could provide extra power into the grid during high demand.
The energy park's expected operational life is 30 years after a four-to-five-year construction period.
More to come.