General News
21 March, 2025
Goldwind exploring local wind farm
Renewable energy company Gold-wind Australia (GWA) is moving forward with plans to develop the Milpulling Wind Farm, a significant renewable energy project in the Gilgandra shire.
A team from GWA hosted a consultation day at The GIL Library Hub on Thursday, March 13, 2025.
Neale Scott, stakeholder engagement manager, said the team was pleased with the interest shown by community members and that they had many “positive conversations”.
The proposed wind farm spans between Collie Road, Leeches Creek Road, Link Road, Kickabil Road and the project's namesake, Milpulling Road.
The land designated for the wind farm is currently used for sheep and cattle grazing, as well as grain farming, and these agricultural activities will continue alongside the wind farm operations.
Milpulling Wind Farm is expected to provide a major boost to renewable energy production in NSW. According to the project factsheet, the wind farm is designed to generate approximately 400 megawatts (MW) of power - enough to supply around 285,000 homes.
The project could feature up to 84 wind turbines, although the final number is still under evaluation. Additionally, the development will include a battery energy storage system to ensure stable energy delivery to the grid.
Goldwind Australia is conducting environmental studies, grid connection assessments, and community consultations to refine the project’s design and address local concerns. The Milpulling Wind Farm is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the region.
During the construction phase, it is estimated to create over 250 jobs, with 15 to 40 ongoing roles over its 30-year lifespan. In addition to job creation, the project aims to support local businesses, apprenticeships, and community benefit-sharing initiatives, such as scholarships and social programs.
Goldwind Australia has acknowledged the Wiradjuri People as the Traditional Owners of the land and has pledged to engage respectfully with Indigenous communities throughout the project’s development. The company has already conducted preliminary assessments, with further community consultations and environmental impact studies planned for 2025. GWA is planning on a timeline for beginning construction in 2028 however, the project remains subject to approvals and potential design modifications, based on community feedback or regulations.
The proponents are also in communication with other agencies such as Gilgandra Shire Council, Essential Energy, and Transport for NSW, that will also be involved in other aspects of the project’s construction and connection to the energy grid.
Last week’s information day was the second time GWA had visited the district for public consultation with further consultation sessions to be held in Gilgandra this year. GWA will be looking into alternative times for future sessions to accommodate after work hours.
