Whaleback Ridge Renewable Energy Project

Location
West Coast Tasmania, between Granville Harbour and Zeehan

Project potential
Up to 2,800 MW of renewable energy

Project approach
Developed in stages over time to align with energy demand and available infrastructure

Stage 1
Up to 432 MW and approximately 50 wind turbines

Operational footprint
Less than 500 hectares (around 1.2% of the project area)

Connection
Existing Farrell–Reece transmission line

Opportunities
Local jobs, business participation, community benefit sharing and future industry investment

Status
Currently progressing through Tasmania’s Major Projects process

Whaleback Ridge is a renewable energy project proposed for Tasmania’s West Coast between Granville Harbour and Zeehan.

Developed in stages over time, the project has the potential to support Tasmania’s future energy needs while creating jobs, investment and long-term opportunities for the West Coast.

At its full potential, Whaleback Ridge could generate up to 2,800 MW of renewable energy through the installation of up to 280 wind turbines. The project will be developed progressively, responding to energy demand, available transmission capacity and future opportunities for renewable-powered industry.

While the project area covers approximately 40,500 hectares, the operational footprint is expected to be less than 500 hectares, around 1.2% of the total area under investigation. This means more than 98% of the project area will remain available for its existing uses and environmental values.

The project is designed to connect to Tasmania’s existing electricity network and build on the state’s renewable energy strengths, supporting reliable, affordable and sustainable energy for the future.

The first stage of the project is expected to deliver up to 432 MW of renewable energy and is anticipated to include approximately 50 wind turbines.

Stage 1 will also include:

• Internal access roads, using existing routes where possible
• Collector substations
• Underground and overhead electrical infrastructure
• Operations and maintenance facilities
• Battery energy storage infrastructure (if required)
• Connection to the existing Farrell–Reece transmission line

Current assessments indicate there is capacity within the existing transmission network to accommodate Stage 1.

Whaleback Ridge has been designed to grow alongside Tasmania’s future energy needs.

Future stages will be guided by electricity demand, available transmission capacity and opportunities to support new industry and investment. This may include supplying renewable energy to emerging industries, mineral processing operations and other energy users seeking access to reliable renewable power.

The timing and scale of future stages will continue to evolve as market demand and energy requirements develop.

We see Whaleback Ridge creating long-term value for the West Coast by:

• Supporting local jobs and workforce development
• Creating opportunities for local businesses and suppliers
• Contributing to housing solutions for the region
• Delivering community benefit sharing
• Supporting future industry and investment opportunities
• Working in partnership with communities and stakeholders

The project is being assessed through Tasmania’s Major Projects process.

This includes detailed and independent evaluation of:

•  Environmental impacts and biodiversity
• Landforms and landscape
• Cultural heritage
• Social and economic outcomes

The project will only proceed if it meets strict regulatory requirements.

• Major Project declared: 2024
• Environmental and technical studies: ongoing
• Assessment and approvals: 2028
• Construction (Stage 1): targeted 2028
• Energisation (Stage 1): targeted 2030

Whaleback Ridge is expected to support:

• Direct Construction Jobs – approximately 300 full time jobs during 7 years of construction
• Direct Operational Jobs – approximately 90 full time permanent jobs for the 35 year life of the development
• Demand for local businesses across multiple sectors
• More stable and competitive energy for existing industries
• Opportunities for new industries over time
• Community benefit sharing included

The staged nature of the project provides sustained economic activity across a longer period.

The project is being developed with a focus on:

• Engagement with local communities
• A commitment for input from Tasmanian Aboriginal groups
• Collaboration with industry and regional stakeholders

In 2026 a Community Reference Group will be established to support ongoing input.

Whaleback Ridge is also an opportunity to support broader regional outcomes.

This includes:

• Local business participation
• Workforce development
• Long-term housing solutions linked to project demand
• Community benefit sharing

These elements are being developed alongside the project.

The project is currently progressing through Tasmania’s Major Projects process.
To stay informed and receive project updates, register at info@westcoastrenew.com.au