Project EnergyConnect secures start of SA’s largest renewable energy project

More than 400 local jobs and lower power prices have been secured as construction begins on the first stage of Nooen’s Goyder Renewables Zone built around the SA-NSW Interconnector, Project EnergyConnect.

Goyder South is part of Neoen’s Goyder Renewables Zone, a $3 billion wind, solar and storage project located near Burra. This first stage to commence construction includes 400 megawatts (MW) of wind power, with construction to occur over the next two years.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Energy and Mining Hon Dan van Holst Pellekaan welcomed the start of construction of the Goyder South project.

“This project will support over 400 construction jobs and 12 ongoing roles. This is huge for the Burra community – with community funding, ongoing landowner payments, employment and eco-tourism opportunities supporting a community who are used to the challenges of living near Goyder’s line.

“Neoen will also secure the iconic Worlds End Gorge for public enjoyment for future generations. Worlds End Gorge is a popular site, with permanent spring-fed waterholes and significant amounts of threatened flora and fauna.

“The is the start of South Australia’s largest approved renewable energy project. It’s the start of billions of dollars of investment in renewable energy projects which will deliver lower costs and cleaner power South Australians, underpinned by Project EnergyConnect.

“The Marshall Government is securely generating around 65 per cent of our power from renewable energy and Goyder South will help advance us towards net-100 per cent renewable by 2030.

“Projects such as Goyder South also help our government’s green hydrogen ambitions, with Neoen a key proponent of hydrogen in South Australia. This will provide another way for our world-class renewables to be exported to the world, so we can generate 500% renewable energy by 2050.

The Australian Energy Market Operator called Project EnergyConnect “critical” and a “no regrets measure” because it would help deliver lower power bills and secure the South Australian grid, addressing the energy security mess left by the previous Labor Government.

SA Labor promised to deliver the SA-NSW Interconnector back in 2002, but then became its biggest critic with the Shadow Treasurer Stephen Mulligan, saying “we think it’s a terrible idea”.

“The Marshall Government is delivering on our promises of an interconnector with NSW, ending Labor’s blackouts and delivering lower bills in a faster transition to renewables. This project shows that our energy policies are building what matters and delivering lower cost and better services.”

“Labor’s terrible judgement on energy remains a risk to household and businesses in South Australia. If SA Labor were in Government, this investment would not be happening.”

“We’ve delivered over $300 in bill savings, and we’ll keep delivering for South Australians.”