In October, work began on the King Rocks wind farm, a new 105 megawatt facility located about 35 kilometers from Hyden, driven by state-owned Synergy. This project represents a key part of the Cook Government’s strategy to accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources.
Progress on King Rocks wind farm infrastructure
The complex will have 17 wind turbines with towers of up to 125 meters and blades that reach 80 meters in length, resulting in a total height of approximately 206 meters per unit. In addition to the turbines, internal roads, substations and transmission networks will be built to connect the power generation to the state’s electrical system.
Approximately 200 local jobs will be generated during the construction phase. In addition, 30 new jobs will be created at the already operational workers’ housing facility near Hyden. This complex includes 189 temporary rooms with ancillary services. The wind farm is expected to be completed in 2027 and will continue to generate direct and indirect employment for at least three decades.
The Labor government has earmarked $513 million for the development of this wind farm. wind farm, as part of a broader strategy that since 2017 has already mobilized $6.4 billion in sustainable energy infrastructure. This initiative is key to progressively replacing coal-fired power plants and positioning Western Australia as a benchmark in clean energy production.
Amber-Jade Sanderson, an energy and decarbonization expert, noted that the start of construction at King Rocks marks a tangible action in the state’s decarbonization plan. The project will not only provide reliable power for some 70,000 homes, but will also boost the regional economy and modernize the region’s electricity system.
Source and photo: WA