~280 MW
approximate installed capacity
Mincha Wind Farm
Mincha Wind Farm is early in development and the project team is undertaking consultation with near neighbours, community members and other local stakeholders. At the same time, we are conducting a range of technical investigations including ecological assessments and other site-specific studies. The outcomes of these investigations, along with community input, will play a key role in shaping the design process. We anticipate that the project will host 280MW of wind energy generation, with the potential for future solar energy generation.
European Energy Australia will work in partnership with the community and local councils to develop a tailored benefit-sharing strategy that will help us deliver meaningful outcomes for the local community.
We will also provide opportunities for local contractors to supply goods and services, particularly during the construction phase.
Throughout the life of the project, rates and rent will be paid to the Loddon and Gannawarra Shire Regional Councils and to participating landowners. We will also offer eligible neighbours access to an opt-in benefit program.
The project is located near one of AusNet’s 220kV transmission lines. We are planning to connect the project to this existing infrastructure.
Wind farm projects in Victoria require approval from the Victorian Government under the Victorian Planning Provisions and the Development of Wind Facilities Guidelines. These frameworks ensure thorough assessment and consistent performance standards. The Australian Government also assesses projects for potential impacts on matters of national environmental significance.
We’re currently in the early development stage of investigating the feasibility of a wind farm project in the Mincha area. This includes wind speed monitoring, ecological assessments, and technical studies such as noise and visual impact assessments.
The proposed wind farm will consist of turbines and a substation located on agricultural properties and be designed to co-exist with ongoing farming activities. The energy generated would be fed into the national electricity grid via a new connection to the existing 220kV Kerang–Bendigo transmission line.
While the final design is still being developed, we anticipate between 35 and 40 turbines for this project. Each turbine would have a tip height of up to 250 metres. The overall layout will be refined as we confirm the development footprint and complete further assessments.
Wind farms can bring significant economic benefits to regional communities including job creation and procurement opportunities for local businesses. EE Australia also offers neighbour benefit sharing and community benefit funding to support broader community priorities. On a larger scale, the project will contribute to Victoria’s renewable energy targets and supply clean energy to eastern Australia.
EE Australia understands the importance of minimising environmental impacts. We avoid areas with high biodiversity value and conduct detailed assessments with our environmental team. We are conducting detailed ecological assessments to inform the design of the Mincha project.
We use early and ongoing engagement to give locals opportunities to have their say. This will include meetings with neighbours, councils, Traditional Owners, key local stakeholders and community groups, as well as broader community consultation.
Feedback from the community will help shape the project and help us identify opportunities to create local benefits. If the project progresses, formal public consultation will also be required as part of the planning approvals process. We will continue to provide updates and opportunities for input throughout the development stage.
Wind farm projects in Victoria require approval from the Victorian Government under the Victorian Planning Provisions and the Development of Wind Facilities Guidelines. These frameworks ensure thorough assessment and consistent performance standards. The Australian Government also assesses projects for potential impacts on matters of national environmental significance.
Wind turbines typically have a lifespan of at least 25 years. EE Australia’s lease agreements include clear decommissioning obligations, and we ensure that funds are set aside to cover the removal and rehabilitation of the site at the end of the project’s life.
Noise from wind farms can be caused by wind resistance and vibrations created by the turbine. Construction will also generate noise. The noise impact from European Energy’s wind farms is assessed to follow national and local legislation and noise thresholds. These thresholds are often around 40 decibels, equivalent to a refrigerator hum or stream.
In 2024, the Insurance Council of Australia confirmed there’s no evidence that living near wind farms leads to higher insurance premiums for landowners.
All wind farm projects must comply with Country Fire Authority requirements to manage fire risk. While turbine fires are rare and typically self-contained, we will assess any potential fire risks specific to the site as part of the development process.
Contact person
Get in contact with us via infoaus@europeanenergy.com if you have any questions or comments related to the project.