Construction has commenced on Atmos Renewables’ Parron Maam Marang wind farm, a project set to deliver up to 470MW of renewable energy in Western Australia (WA).
The wind farm is located near Badgingarra, roughly 200km north of Perth. The site will host 78 wind turbines.
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Once operational, the facility is anticipated to supply electricity for around 350,000 households, with the company aiming for the project to be operational by the end of 2028.
Atmos Renewables expects the construction phase to employ around 400 workers at its peak.
The business has indicated it will prioritise regional hires and create 15 to 20 ongoing local operational and maintenance jobs.
Attendees at sod-turning ceremony included representatives from Atmos Renewables, the Shire of Dandaragan, Synergy, Yued Aboriginal Corporation, Vestas, Western Power, Genus, and members of the local community.
The development is accompanied by a pledge to spend over A$700m ($492m) with suppliers from Australia and New Zealand.
Atmos Renewables also outlined a $470,000 annual Community Benefit Fund to support initiatives within Dandaragan and neighbouring areas.
A Relationship Agreement was signed between Atmos Renewables and Yued Aboriginal Corporation, providing for employment, contracting, cultural, and community programmes, as well as the involvement of Yued rangers in environmental management.
The project sets procurement and engagement goals for First Nations businesses and includes $282,000 dedicated to First Nations training and workforce development, in addition to $200,000 for further local employment efforts with North Metro TAFE.
Power from the wind farm will be sold under a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) agreement with Synergy.
Parron Maam Marang Farm is now fully owned by Atmos Renewables after initial development in partnership with Parron Developments.
Atmos Renewables CEO Nigel Baker said: “Starting construction is a huge milestone for the Parron Maam Marang Farm project and reflects the commitment and collaboration of many people over a number of years.
“As a long-term owner and operator, we’re focused on delivering a project that will contribute to Western Australia’s energy future while creating lasting benefits for the Mid West.”
The project is part of both the WA Government’s Priority Project list and the Australian Government’s Capacity Investment Scheme.
Recently, Atmos Renewables completed the acquisition of a portfolio of Australian projects from BayWa r.e., increasing its total operating and in-construction capacity to over 2GW.
