Written by Squadron Energy |
Squadron Energy CEO Rob Wheals said Squadron Energy has been working with Dubbo Regional Council on a solution to the challenges posed by accommodation for renewable construction workers in the local community.
“We are working closely with Dubbo Regional Council to bring accommodation to Dubbo that will house our workers during construction and will ensure the positive economic impact is localised and land is ready for more permanent housing into the future,” Mr Wheals said.
“We want to leave a legacy. Something that will benefit the community for years to come.
“Given our projects will involve the employment of many people, understanding accommodation options is crucial for their success.
“This includes investing in enabling infrastructure that supports the region’s future population growth without burdening the existing private rental and accommodation market.”
Dubbo Regional Council Mayor Josh Black said there is urgent need to provide housing for temporary workers involved in constructing large-scale projects within the Central West Orana REZ, and Council has been working closely with stakeholders to ensure we assist in facilitating the accommodation requirements needed.
“After the wind farm construction finishes, Council will have an appropriately zoned site that we can seek to develop into residential blocks of land to support the ongoing population growth we are experiencing across the Dubbo Region,” Clr Black said.
“Having this accommodation village on the urban fringe of a major centre is also expected to add approximately $250 million of value to the local economy each year.”
The site in Keswick Estate, which is located 5 km from the Dubbo CBD will reduce traffic impacts through bus transportation to and from the wind farm and leave a long-term legacy.
The proposed Spicers Creek Wind Farm received State government approval in October 2024 and is located on Wiradjuri Country, west of Gulgong and northeast of Wellington, within the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone. The approved project comprises up to 117 wind turbines and battery energy storage.
