FAQ
West Coast Renewable Energy is a Tasmanian company focused on developing renewable energy projects that support affordable, reliable energy and long-term economic growth.
Whaleback Ridge is a proposed wind energy project on Tasmania’s West Coast. It is designed to add new energy supply, support system reliability and contribute to regional economic activity.
Tasmania’s energy system is evolving. Hydro remains the backbone, but new supply is needed to meet future demand, maintain reliability and help manage long-term price pressure. Wind plays a key role in supporting a more balanced, affordable and resilient energy system.
- Distance from residential areas
- Existing access and infrastructure
- A landscape suited to carefully managed development
The Whaleback Ridge Wind Farm is proposed to include up to 280 wind turbines, with the final number and layout informed by environmental, technical and planning assessments.
While the project study area covers approximately 40,500 hectares, the operational footprint is expected to be less than 500 hectares, around 1.2% of the total project area.
The project is expected to support more than 1,000 direct and indirect jobs during construction, creating opportunities for local workers, contractors and businesses across a wide range of industries.
Once operational, the project is expected to support approximately 470 ongoing jobs through operations, maintenance and associated economic activity.
The project has the potential to generate up to 2,800 MW of renewable energy, making it one of the largest renewable energy projects proposed in Tasmania and a significant contributor to Australia’s clean energy future.
No. The project is located in a regional reserve, not in a National Park or World Heritage Area.
The project has been declared a Major Project and is being assessed by the Tasmanian Planning Commission.
The Project will also be assessed by the Australian government under the Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
A range of detailed studies are underway, including:
- Ecology and biodiversity
- Bird and wildlife activity
- Landscape and visual impact
- Noise impacts
- Tasmanian Aboriginal Heritage
- and other environmental factors
These studies inform project design and are assessed through the assessment process.
The project is expected to:
- Support jobs during construction and operation
- Create demand for local businesses
- Contribute to more stable energy supply for existing industries
- Support broader regional economic activity
Yes. WRE is developing a community benefit approach that includes:
- A Community Reference Group
- A community benefit sharing program
- Support for local participation and workforce development
These will be shaped through engagement with the community.
A structured engagement process will be undertaken, including:
- Public information sessions
- One-on-one engagement
- Through the Community Reference Group
Community input will help shape key aspects of the project.
Workforce demand can place pressure on housing if not managed.
WRE is working towards a coordinated approach that:
- Provides accommodation during construction
- Reduces impact on the private rental market
- Supports longer-term housing outcomes for the region
Yes. The project will create opportunities across construction (470 jobs), operations and the broader supply chain.
WRE is committed to supporting local participation wherever possible.
No. The project is currently undergoing assessment through Tasmania’s Major Projects process and will be assessed by the Australian government under the Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
It is an independent assessment process that evaluates large projects against strict environmental, social and economic criteria. The project will only proceed if it meets these requirements
Regular updates will be provided through the website, including Community Updates and project information releases. You can register to receive regular updates info@westcoastrenew.com.au.
You can contact the project team through the Contact Us page. Opportunities for engagement will also be provided throughout the assessment process, and these will be made public.