Wandoo Wind Farm
Wandoo Wind Farm is located near Wannamal, approximately 30kms North of Bindoon and 50kms South of Moora. The 450+MW wind farm will be one of the largest wind farms in Western Australia once constructed. The wind farm is expected to produce enough electricity to power ~250,000 Western Australian homes, offsetting ~0.8 million tonnes of CO2 being released into the atmosphere annually.
The Wandoo Wind Farm project aims to maximise the potential for local businesses, workers, and the broader community to participate in the development of the Wandoo Wind Farm project. The Shire is working with Greenwinds Renewables to ensure that benefits are maximised for businesses and community.
To understand the community’s existing needs and vulnerabilities, a Socio-Economic Impact Assessment (SEIA) will be undertaken. The assessment will focus on the impact of the proposed Wandoo Wind Farm on the quality of life and livelihoods of people in the Shire of Victoria Plains including potential jobs, social services, culture, amenity, and wellbeing. The SEIA will address how the potential negative impacts can be mitigated and how opportunities can be developed to support the Shire of Victoria Plains.
Community input will also be sought on the creation and management of a Community Benefit Fund. The Wandoo Wind Farm project, through a Community Benefit Fund, aims to provide tangible benefits to the Shire of Victoria Plains community. The Community Benefit Fund is planned to commence at the end of the development phase of the project, will operate for the life of the wind farm and offers financial support to local endeavours through educational programs and projects.