- Wind energy is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sectors globally, which is welcomed news because its importance cannot be overstated. It offers a clean, renewable, and abundant source of power that can help mitigate the severe impacts of climate change.
- In this article, we explore the need for wind energy, its current landscape in Australia, the benefits and future potential and ACCIONA's pivotal role in this sector.
The Need for Wind Energy
The world's heavy reliance on fossil fuels has significant negative impacts on the environment, including climate change, air pollution, and the depletion of natural resources. Moreover, fossil fuels are finite, raising concerns about energy security and price volatility.
In contrast, wind energy offers numerous advantages. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions, promotes the creation of green jobs, and enhances energy security by harnessing an unlimited resource: the wind.
The Landscape of Wind Energy in Australia
Australia has embraced wind energy, recognising its potential to help achieve climate targets and enhance energy security. Government policies have provided support for its growth, resulting in substantial development of the industry. Public attitudes towards wind energy have also been predominantly positive, with increasing recognition of its benefits. This has further encouraged energy companies to invest in renewable sources, moving away from fossil fuels.
However, transitioning from previously established non-renewable energy practices to renewable energy poses certain challenges. Integrating wind energy into the existing power grid, ensuring consistent supply, and addressing local concerns about aesthetics are examples of key issues that need to be addressed. Nonetheless, the potential for expanding wind energy in Australia remains vast.
The Future of Wind Energy in Australia
Australia's natural environment provides an excellent foundation for the expansion of wind energy, thanks to favorable geographical conditions, technological advancements, and robust investment opportunities. The continued support of individuals, businesses, and governments through policy backing, technological innovation, and consumer choice is crucial for the future growth of this sector. If these roles continue to flourish, Australia's wind energy future is promising.
ACCIONA Energía's Wind Power Projects
ACCIONA Energía's expertise in the wind power sector extends across the globe, having been involved in renewables and wind power facilities for over 30 years. The company has installed more than 12GW (as of 31/03/2023) of renewable energy output across 20 countries, aiding in the fight against global warming.
ACCIONA Energía has pioneered in-house wind turbine technology through ACCIONA Windpower. In 2016, the company integrated with the German company Nordex, solidifying their position as a key player in the industry.
Typically, wind turbines have a lifespan of approximately 25-30 years. The rapid evolution of wind technology has led to longer-lasting turbines and more efficient energy production.
ACCIONA Energía has a different approach to developing projects as they have a build, own and operate business model. The company is embedded in the community for the entire lifetime of their projects.
An example if this is the Mt. Gellibrand Wind Farm in Victoria, Australia, commencing operation in 2018. This wind farm generates 132 MW of clean energy, enough to power around 90,000 homes. It showcases our approach to constructing wind turbine foundations and assembling the turbines themselves.
More recently, the company is currently constructing one of the largest onshore wind farms in the southern hemisphere, the MacIntyre Wind Farm Precinct in south-east Queensland. Once operational, the project will generate 1,000MW of clean energy.
With committed developers like ACCIONA Energía leading the charge, the future of wind energy in Australia is not only promising but also well underway.
To learn more about the impact of wind energy on Australia's energy landscape, click here.