Overview
Thunderbolt Wind Farm is a wind energy project with the ability to provide affordable, reliable power to New South Wales consumers. The project is being proposed approximately 47km north-east of Tamworth, NSW, and is located within the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
WIND
The Project is permitted for up to 32 Wind Turbine Generators, with a maximum tip height of 260m. Each turbine can expect to generate 6-7 MW.
Location
The Project is located in New South Wales between the towns of Bendemeer and Kentucky, approximately a five hour drive north of Sydney.
The Project will include up to 32 Wind Turbine Generators and is located within the Tamworth Regional Council and Uralla Shire Council LGAs. The site entrance is proposed to be from the New England Highway.
Photomontages
Photomontages provide an impression of what the wind farm may look like from different points in the landscape at different distances to the wind turbines. Neoen’s visual consultant has created the photomontages on the map to give you an impression of what the wind turbines proposed for Thunderbolt Wind Farm may look like from different points along public roads surrounding the project area.
Click on the six camera icons on the map to display the photomontage in a new tab. The photomontage will allow you to pan through a 360 degree view from the point at which the photomontage was taken. You will be able to zoom into the image to get a close-up look at the wind turbines.
Please contact us if you have any questions about the photomontages.
Benefits
FOR LOCAL FARMERS
Significant annual income paid to local economy plus up to 10-15 jobs once the project is operational
Project Lifecycle
1
Site Selection
We undertake research & early negotiations with landowners for options to lease or purchase sites that show potential for hosting renewable energy assets.
2
Feasibility
We create preliminary designs & initiate feasibility studies to identify site constraints. We commence early engagement with Traditional Owners, neighbours, local council and the community. We hold community information sessions locally.
3
Planning & Approvals
Extensive studies & surveys are undertaken to create detailed project design before submitting a Development Application (DA) to the NSW Government. Ongoing community and governmental consultations help refine project plans. We initiate grid connection enquiries.
4
Pre-Construction
If the DA is approved, we conduct a procurement process to appoint a construction contractor. Grid connection agreements & energy contracts get finalised, and our focus shifts to securing financing from lenders. A networking session is held for local jobseekers, suppliers & businesses to discuss upcoming opportunities.
5
Construction
The site mobilises, local suppliers & jobseekers are appointed, and civil, mechanical & electrical works commence. The project becomes a reality as the construction team builds and commissions the wind asset.
6
Operations
We maintain the asset for at least 25 years to ensure strong energy generation & revenue optimisation. Our community benefit-sharing program begins contributing to local initiatives.
7
Decommissioning or Site Renewal
We decide on whether to continue operations or decommission the site. New construction works or site rehabilitation is undertaken.
What we loved about Neoen was their Community Benefit-Sharing Program
and how they worked with host landholders.
Karen and Jonathan Schoff, Host landowners
Culcairn Solar Farm, NSW
Get Involved
Further information on the Project
Let us know what you think
With a balanced portfolio of wind, solar and big battery projects, we are Australia’s largest 100% renewables company.
We own and operate many of our projects for the long-term and are committed to sharing the benefits with surrounding communities as a responsible neighbour. Our dedication to the community and environment has made us a ‘developer of choice’ and a pioneer in the industry.
Since 2012, we have contributed over 4.5 GW of renewable energy & storage assets and invested over $7 billion towards Australia’s energy transition.


