27.07.07

Acciona Energy is proud to support the local community during construction of the wind farm

 

Civil construction works are almost complete for the 128 turbine Waubra Wind Farm, located approximately 35kms North West of Ballarat in Victoria.  Acciona Energy in conjunction with Leighton Contractors Pty Ltd has completed construction of all access tracks to turbine locations. It is expected that all turbine foundations and hardstands will be completed by the end of August, weather permitting.

The next phase of building the wind farm involves the electrical works, which are expected to start in September. Erection of the first wind turbines is scheduled to begin in late 2007.

The civil works phase of the project has generated significant employment and community benefits for Waubra and the region. Of the 100 workers on site during the peak of civil works, approximately 70% are locals from Waubra and the surrounding areas. As well as creating jobs locally, Acciona Energy has used local equipment, services and materials wherever possible, further stimulating the regional economy.

Mr Brett Thomas, Managing Director said “We are pleased to be working together with the local community to create real benefits of employment and an active local economy.  The Waubra wind farm will be a world class wind energy facility and it is great that local and regional businesses are involved in its construction.  We are also proud to support community projects as we continue to move through construction”.

Acciona Energy’s Construction Manager, Mr Bruce Payne said “the peak of construction activity during the electrical works and erection of the wind turbines is expected to create around 100 jobs early next year.”

Acciona Energy is also planning for 25 permanent on-site jobs to maintain the wind farm as it begins operating in late 2008.  These staff will be involved in maintenance work, plus office and management support staff.

During the construction phase, Acciona Energy has continued on-going communication with the local community, through its community relations program.  A regular newsletter provides updates, and a website has been established. Acciona Energy also formed a Community Reference Group as a regular forum for discussion, whose members are landowners, neighbours and members of community groups. Two meetings of the group have been very positive and it is proving to be a great way to keep in touch with community issues and receive feedback.

Acciona Energy has also established a sponsorship program to support the local Waubra community during the construction phase, which has already provided financial and in-kind sponsorships. Acciona Energy is supporting the activities of the Waubra Football and Netball Club; the Waubra Kindergarten’s refurbishment of its playground; the Lions Club upgrade of the Family BBQ area at Toll Bar Park in Lexton; and has provided ‘sustainable raffle prizes’ for community groups fund raising activities.

“Ongoing support for local community projects during the operation of the wind farm will flow from a Sustainable Community Fund of $64,000 per year, established to share the benefits widely” said Brett Thomas.

 

 

 

Acciona Energy proudly supports the Waubra Football Club

 

Children in the Waubra Kindergarten playground