Initial construction on the 14-turbine farm south of Ballan began back in late 2016, with the first turbine erected in late October.   The farm is expected to generate 28.7 megawatts of energy. 

A 750-tonne crane is being trucked in to assemble the 14 turbines which will have a tip height of 126.25 metres. 

While the project had received significant criticism from some residents prior to a planning permit being issued in 2010, Pacific Hydro senior project leader Adam Chandler said the company was actively trying to engage with residents through projects such as a community investment program. 

The project was initially set to host 70 turbines but was reduced following community opposition. 

“With the planned lifespan of our projects extending over decades, harmonious relationships with the local communities that host us are essential – and just as critical to our success as technical or financial factors,” Mr Chandler said.  

The development comes as the municipality prepares for an influx of wind turbines in the coming years.

Construction of the Moorabool Wind Farm is expected to begin before the end of the year which when completed will boast 107 turbines capable of producing 321 megawatts of power. 

A further 31 turbines will be built as part of the Lal Lal Wind Farm project, producing more than 60 megawatts of power. 

The development comes as Federation University prepares to open its renewable energy training centre next year to prepare wind turbine maintenance staff.

Moorabool Shire mayor David Edwards said while there had been some opposition throughout the municipality to wind farms in the past, he was supportive of the projects so long as they had received the appropriate approval and developers had sought to engage with the community. 

“I understand why people wouldn’t want them next door but there’s clearly a fair bit of revenue generated from wind farms and a few of the shires in the region earn significant rate revenue,” Cr Edwards said. 

“Provided they’re done in an appropriate manner and proper consultation is done, sustainable energy is something we have to look at as a community.”