Windlab has been successful in the South Australian Government’s competitive tender process for the Whyalla West Release Area, securing the exclusive right to apply for a Renewable Energy Feasibility Licence for its proposed Whyalla West project.

Located on Barngarla Country in South Australia’s Upper Spencer Gulf, Windlab’s proposal provides for up to 6 gigawatts of combined wind and solar energy generation.

The project’s first stage is expected to comprise between 600 megawatts and 1,000 megawatts of wind generation and battery storage. Further stages would be progressed in line with industrial electricity demand and enabling infrastructure.

Whyalla West combines strong renewable energy resources with proximity to an established industrial region and the potential for significant new electricity demand as South Australian industry grows and decarbonises.

Windlab has worked closely with the Barngarla Determination Aboriginal Corporation and host pastoralists throughout the tender process, establishing an important foundation for the project’s continued development.

Windlab Chief Development Officer, Nathan Blundell said the tender success recognised the strength of Windlab’s proposal and represented a significant milestone for Whyalla West.

“Whyalla West combines exceptional renewable energy resources, significant development scale and proximity to established and emerging industrial demand.

“The proposed first stage provides a substantial starting point, while the project’s multi-stage design enables further capacity to progress in line with demand and enabling infrastructure.

“Progressing an opportunity of this scale requires deep technical capability, strong regional relationships and a clear understanding of place. We will continue working with Traditional Owners, host pastoralists and communities across the Upper Spencer Gulf to ensure local knowledge and regional priorities inform the project’s development.”

Subject to the Renewable Energy Feasibility Licence being granted, Windlab expects to begin on-site development activities within the coming months.  

The feasibility program will build Windlab’s understanding of the project area and inform the project’s design and next steps. Windlab will expand community engagement as Whyalla West takes shape, with early feedback helping to align the project with regional priorities and support positive local outcomes.