Wind Facts & Figures in Australia
Australia saw 615 MW of new capacity installed in 2008 - bringing Australia to the top 10 market list for the first time.
The installation of the the new capacity comes after several years with marginal growth. The majority of the new wind power was installed by Suzlon, Vestas and REpower.
The 140 MW Woolnorth wind farm comprises 62 turbines, both 1.75 MW and 3 MW capacity machines manufactured by Vestas Wind Systems.
The cumulative capacity at the end of 2008 hereby rose to 1,587 MW.
This year's forecast predicts that some 4,387 MW will be installed by the end of 2013.
Source: BTM Consult Aps, March 2009
FACTS: WOOLNORTH WIND FARM
Size: The Woolnorth wind farm comprises a total of 62 turbines, including both Vestas 1.75 and 3 MW models
Total capacity: 140 MW
Electricity production: 450 GWh
Climate: 560,000 tons of CO2 saved each year
Opening: The wind farm was completed in May 2007
FACTS: WIND POWER IN AUSTRALIA
Australia has an enormous potential for wind power development, but has been held back by a lack of clear national energy policy commitments
Current wind energy capacity: 1,587 MW (end 2008)
National target: Australian government is in the process of adopting a target for 20% of electricity supply from renewable sources by 2020
Global Wind Energy Council, Rue d'Arlon 63-65, 1040 Brussels, Belgium, Tel: +32 2 400 1029, Fax: +32 2 546 1944, Email: info@gwec.net