The construction of two major wind farms have had a significant benefit for the regional Victorian economy, according to energy giant AGL.

 

AGL found that the construction of its wind farms added $67 million, or 1.04 per cent Gross Regional Product, to the region's economy.

 

With combined project investment for the Oaklands Hill Wind Farm near Glenthompson and the Macarthur Wind Farm, currently under construction, of approximately $1.2 billion, the projects have boosted regional employment by almost 900 people during construction and will create an estimated 52 ongoing regional jobs.


The study, undertaken by consultants Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM), also estimates that nationally, the projects will provide over 2,700 jobs during development and construction and 150 ongoing jobs.


General Manager Business Customers & Power Development, Scott Thomas, said: “This study demonstrates the very real and ongoing benefits that wind farm developments have for regional, state and Australian economies.


"As AGL and other companies continue to develop new renewable energy projects, including wind farms, to help meet the Renewable Energy Target, residents and Governments should welcome the economic benefits that these projects bring.


"AGL is very pleased to be an ongoing part of these communities, but also to know that we leave a lasting economic legacy beyond the supply of clean renewable energy that will ultimately mean a better environment for us all," he said.