Isolated Networks Manager Dane Thomas said the community would reap the benefits of Ergon’s investment in renewable energy for years to come.

“It’s great to see the turbines in the air once again - Thursday Island has once again welcomed the winds of change and is embracing a renewable energy future after leading the way when the wind farm was established in 1997.

“While this was cutting edge technology when it was initially installed, it was due for a major overhaul, so the generating equipment was shipped to a specialist facility in South Australia while the towers were maintained on-site.

“With the completion of this $2 million project we have improved the reliability and efficiency of the wind turbines, which can generate enough energy to support around 100 high-use homes and are expected to save several thousand litres of diesel a week,” Mr Thomas said.

To date, the wind turbines have generated more than 18,921MWh of renewable energy and savings of 220,000 litres of diesel a year on average.

As part of its commitment to decarbonising remote communities, and in consultation with the local Councils and traditional owners, Ergon Energy Network is pursuing a range of renewable energy options on Thursday Island, including solar solutions.

“While the turbines can produce a lot of clean energy when the wind is blowing they won’t be as productive during those calm periods, known as ‘the doldrums’, and that’s why we need a mix of energy solutions.

“There is widespread community interest in harnessing the power of the sun and we are working together with the Council and other agencies to find the most suitable options and support a renewable energy future,” Mr Thomas said.

FAST FACTS

• The wind farm was established on Thursday Island in 1997.
• The wind turbines are some of the oldest operating in Australia and demonstrate the suitability of renewable energy in Australian conditions.
• A $2 million refurbishment project will extend its life by around 15 years.
• The wind turbines have generated more than 18,921MWh of renewable energy and savings of 220,000 litres of diesel a year on average.
• They can generate enough energy to support around 100 high-use homes.
• Ergon Energy Network supplies electricity to more than 1400 customers on Thursday Island.
• Combined annual energy use on Thursday Island is around 24,600MWh.