Carmody’s Hill Wind Farm is a proposed onshore renewable energy development located in South Australia. The project involves the construction of a 256.2MW wind farm, a 118MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), and associated transmission infrastructure. It is being co-developed by Georgetown Hills Renewable Energy, Aula Energy, and Renewable Project Services.
The project aims to integrate renewable energy into the National Electricity Market (NEM) and enhance energy security. It also contributes to South Australia’s clean energy targets and supports regional investment through local employment and long-term infrastructure development.
Project Location Details
The wind farm is located approximately 7km east of Georgetown in South Australia’s Mid North. It extends along the Campbell Range ridgeline for roughly 14km, reaching southward towards the locality of Gulnare, near the Bundaleer Forest.
The project is situated on the traditional lands of the Nukunu Peoples, and cultural heritage management is a key part of planning.
The location was selected due to its elevated terrain, consistent wind conditions, and proximity to the existing Davenport to Brinkworth transmission corridor. The ridgeline’s geography makes it particularly suitable for efficient wind energy generation.
Financing and Ownership
The project is owned by Georgetown Hills Renewable Energy and jointly developed with Aula Energy and Renewable Project Services. Aula Energy was established in 2023 and is supported by Macquarie Asset Management. It focuses on accelerating deployment of utility-scale renewables across Australia.
While specific financial terms have not been disclosed, the total capital expenditure for the project is estimated to be approximately A$350m. Financial close is expected upon securing offtake agreements and concluding grid and design contracts.
Carmody’s Hill Wind Farm Capacity and Infrastructure
The wind farm will include 42 turbines with a combined installed capacity of 256.2MW. Each turbine is expected to be a modern, utility-scale model designed to maximise generation while minimising noise and visual impact. The 118MW BESS will support energy storage and grid stabilisation services including frequency control ancillary services (FCAS) and peak shaving.
Infrastructure will include a 12.8km, 275kV overhead transmission line to link the project to the Davenport–Brinkworth high-voltage transmission line. Additional infrastructure includes an on-site substation, access roads, crane pads, hardstands, and temporary construction facilities.
Technological Details
The turbines will likely be supplied by Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, a manufacturer with experience in large-scale wind projects. These are expected to be high-capacity turbines tailored for South Australian wind conditions, offering efficient energy conversion and operational durability. The exact turbine model is yet to be confirmed.
The 118MW BESS will enable the project to deliver firmed renewable energy and assist with network reliability by storing excess wind power during periods of low demand. The site will include a high-voltage substation with transformers and protection systems, connected directly to ElectraNet’s transmission network for efficient export of electricity to the grid.
Development and Timeline
Development of the wind farm has progressed through multiple stages, including site selection, feasibility studies, and environmental assessments. Community consultation and stakeholder engagement were initiated early in the process and have continued throughout. The project has received key planning and environmental approvals from relevant state authorities.
The project is currently in the advanced development stage. The next major milestones include final grid connection agreements, detailed engineering design, early contractor engagement, and final investment decision. Subject to financial close, construction is expected to begin by 2026, with a construction timeline estimated at 18 months.
Power Purchase Agreements
Carmody’s Hill Wind Farm is currently seeking a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) as part of its commercialisation strategy. A long-term PPA would provide price certainty and support financing arrangements for the project.
The PPA is a critical component of the development strategy and is expected to be finalised prior to financial close and construction commencement. The agreement will likely involve a corporate buyer or electricity retailer seeking to reduce carbon emissions through renewable energy procurement.
Contractors Involved
Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy has been identified as the preferred supplier for wind turbine generation equipment. Aula Energy, Georgetown Hills Renewable Energy, and Renewable Project Services are responsible for project delivery. Pacific Hydro is also involved in the project’s implementation phase.
