Massive Wind Farm with 197 Turbines and Big Battery Planned for North Queensland

Jul 19

2 min read

A huge renewable energy project is taking shape in North Queensland, as Irish developer DP Energy announces plans for a 197-turbine wind farm and a powerful 4-hour battery system near the upcoming CopperString transmission line.

Massive Wind Farm with 197 Turbines and Big Battery Planned for North Queensland

📍 About the Project: Windy Plains Renewable Energy Park

Named the Windy Plains Renewable Energy Park, the project will be located around 40km southeast of Julia Creek in McKinlay Shire.

🔹 Wind Power: 1,400 MW from 197 turbines

🔹 Battery Storage: 500 MW / 2,000 MWh (4-hour duration)

🔹 Status: Feasibility complete, now moving into assessment and community consultation

The location was picked for two key reasons:

1️⃣ It has strong, consistent wind resources

2️⃣ It sits close to the 1,100km CopperString line, a major transmission project that will open up North Queensland’s clean energy potential

🧭 What Happens Next?

DP Energy is now starting detailed environmental and planning assessments, and is inviting the community to get involved early.

🗓️ A community drop-in session is scheduled for August 13 at the Julia Creek Civic Centre, where locals can meet the project team, ask questions, and give feedback.

Why This Project Matters

The CopperString project, despite recent cost overruns now pushing it to $14 billion, is a critical part of Queensland’s clean energy future. It’s expected to unlock over 6 GW of renewable energy and boost investment in mining and regional industries.

DP Energy says Windy Plains will not only help power homes and businesses but will also support jobs and development in the region.

“This is a fantastic location to harness North Queensland’s clean energy,” said Hugh Cantwell, DP Energy Australia’s head of development. “We want to design this project with the community, not just for it.”

⚡ DP Energy’s Growing Presence in Australia

DP Energy is steadily expanding its footprint across Australia:

✅ Callide Wind Farm: 70 turbines, 462 MW – approved in Central Queensland

✅ Port Augusta Hub (320 MW): Now owned by Iberdrola but originally developed by DP Energy

The company says community engagement, First Nations consultation, and collaboration with all levels of government will be at the heart of its development process.