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Cork firm behind plan for massive wind farm deep in the Aussie Outback

Cork firm behind plan for massive wind farm deep in the Aussie Outback

DP Energy, which is headquartered in Buttevant, plans to develop Windy Plains Renewable Energy Park, a major renewable energy development located approximately 40 km southeast of Julia Creek in McKinlay Shire, Queensland.
The work will combine 197 wind turbines with an installed capacity of up to 1,400 MW and supported by battery energy storage systems (BESS) of around 500 MW / 2000 MWh.
The project represents a significant opportunity to contribute to Queensland's renewable energy targets and Australia's broader net-zero goals.
DP Energy has been operating for 30 years and has enabled 1 GW of renewable energy generation through 21 significant infrastructure projects worldwide.
Currently, DP Energy has a 4.5 GW pipeline of renewable energy projects across Ireland, the UK, Australia and Canada.
Hugh Cantwell, DP Energy Australia's Head of Development, said:
'Windy Plains Renewable Energy Park is perfectly positioned to tap into North Queensland's incredible wind resources, resulting in long‑term economic benefits for the region.
'With strong, consistent winds, ample land, and direct access to new transmission infrastructure, it will power both the grid and local growth for decades to come,' he said.
The company has several upcoming Irish projects in the pipeline including Lyra wind farm and Aries wind farm, both located in Mayo, could generate up to 100MW and 50MW respectively.
Other domestic works include additional early-stage wind farms and projects involving non-grid dependent renewable solutions for large energy users.
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DP Energy recently signed a memorandum of understanding with a large Irish utility generator to use green hydrogen as a clean power fuel for electricity generating stations.
'From the outset, our priority is genuine collaboration with local communities, First Nations, and all levels of government. Early, open dialogue means Windy Plains Renewable Energy Park will be designed with community insights at its core, delivering results that will create lasting value for all stakeholders,' Mr Cantwell concluded.
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