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All projects are managed to a number of key milestones that define the successes that have been achieved to date. The development of a wind farm project is no different. This page provides you with a brief description and update on the progress of the milestones that must be reached if a wind farm is to become operational.
Wind monitoring mast installation : 1st Dec 2008
A single 60 metre tubular wind data monitoring mast is erected on the proposed Sapphire wind farm site.
Wind farm proposal announced : 18th May 2009
The announcement of the proposed Sapphire wind farm was made by Wind Prospect CWP on 18th May 2009.
PEA lodged on NSW DoP website : 29th May 2009
The Preliminary Environmental Assessment has been accepted and lodged by NSW Department of Planning. This has resulted in the issue of Director General's Requirements which outline what issues the planning application should address about the wind farm development.
 Preliminary Environmental Assessment (1.3 MB)
Planning - Adequacy Review : 1st Jul 2011
Once the various studies have been completed and extensive consultation has been carried out with local residents, a comprehensive Environmental Assessment is compiled and submitted to the NSW Department of Planning for determination by the Minister. There is an initial adequacy review by the Department, which should take approximatelyt 4-6 weeks, before the application is placed on exhibition.
Planning - On Exhibition : 23rd Nov 2011
The Environmental Assessment (EA) has been deemed adequate by the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure to be placed on Public Exhibition. This allows interested parties to review the development and provide feedback as part of the planning process.
Hard copies of the Environmental Assessment are available for viewing at the Glen Innes Severn and Inverell Shire Council planning offices. Electronic copies can be download from the Major Project assessment section of the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure website (majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au). The exhibition period runs from the 23rd November 2011 until the 1st March 2012.
Planning - Determination : Expected Oct 2012
The length of time for a consent decision can vary, and is often dependent on a number of factors including the total number of submissions, requests for further information, or community hearings. Assuming there are no significant issues, determination should conclude by the end of 2012.
Start of construction : Expected Late 2013
The standard construction time is estimated to be between 12-18 months.
Construction completed : Expected Mid 2015
After the construction phase is completed the turbines are connected to the grid and all electrical systems are tested. The wind farm is then cleared for operation and will start to generate electricity.
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