Reading Time: 2 minutes
Windlab has announced that its Wongalee wind energy project, located near Hughenden on Yirendali Country, has received state development approval — marking a significant milestone in advancing clean, reliable, and affordable energy for North Queensland through the North Queensland Super Hub.
The Wongalee project is designed to generate up to 1.4 gigawatts of renewable energy, enough to power approximately 500,000 homes annually and significantly reduce carbon emissions. Strategically planned to coexist with the region’s agricultural base, the project aims to demonstrate how renewable energy and agriculture can flourish side by side.
Beyond its clean energy goals, the project is expected to bring lasting economic and social benefits to the region, including the creation of around 500 jobs during construction. Windlab has committed to sustainable regional development initiatives tailored to the needs of local communities.
Nathan Blundell, Windlab Chief Development Officer, said the approval marks a major step forward in unlocking the enormous renewable potential of North Queensland.
“Wongalee will play an essential role in delivering critical infrastructure, regional investment, and long-term employment opportunities to Hughenden and the broader Flinders Shire. “The project is expected to benefit from planned transmission upgrades, including CopperString 2032, which would enable large-scale renewable generation to reach the grid and strengthen Queensland’s energy security,” Mr Blundell said.
The approval follows nearly two years of comprehensive technical design, environmental assessment, and continuous engagement with Traditional Owners, landholders, government agencies, and the broader community.
With this milestone now reached, the project will advance to detailed design and delivery planning while also progressing through the EPBC (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation) assessment process.
“Our approach to development is built on genuine, ongoing engagement with our stakeholders, particularly our host communities and landholders. Their insights have played a central role in shaping the design of the Wongalee wind energy project. We’re committed to ensuring the project continues to reflect local values, meets regulatory requirements, and delivers meaningful long-term benefits,” Mr Blundell said.
Windlab, which has maintained a strong presence in the Flinders Shire through developments like the Kennedy Energy Park and the fully permitted Prairie wind energy project, reaffirmed its commitment to working with the region in support of Queensland’s clean energy transition.
