Agreement unites clean energy providers

Aula Energy has signed a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) with Snowy Hydro for the Carmody’s Hill Wind Farm in South Australia’s Mid North.

Under the agreement, Snowy Hydro will procure 120 MW of clean wind energy annually, representing 47% of Carmody’s Hill Wind Farm’s generation capacity, for a 15-year term.

This is another milestone as the project works towards financial close, having recently been successful in the Australian Government’s Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS) Tender 4.

Additionally, the project recently received approval for its Negotiated Generator Performance Standards (NER 5.3.4A) from ElectraNet and AEMO.

Chad Hymas, CEO of Aula Energy, said, “Securing this PPA with Snowy Hydro is a major step forward for Carmody’s Hill Wind Farm and for our commitment to deliver reliable, renewable energy in South Australia. Snowy Hydro’s leadership in the energy market reflects their position as a key customer driving change as we work towards a sustainable future.

“As long-term owner and operator of renewable energy projects, Aula Energy will continue to work with customers as both the market and their growth needs change over the long term.”

Dennis Barnes, CEO of Snowy Hydro, added, “South Australia is a leader in Australia’s energy transition, and this agreement with Aula Energy reflects our confidence in the quality and strategic importance of Carmody’s Hill Wind Farm and the South Australian market.

“Our unmatched mix of on-demand power and pumped hydro energy storage is what makes renewables work, enabling three times the clean wind and solar to come online. This new contract enhances our role as an end-to-end generator and retailer, supporting the strong growth of Snowy’s retail brand, which now serves more than 1.6 million retail customers.”

Located near Georgetown in South Australia’s Mid North, Carmody’s Hill Wind Farm will deliver 256 MW of clean wind energy through 42 turbines and a 275 kV transmission line. The project has been shaped by extensive community consultation and is designed to deliver long-term economic and social benefits to the Georgetown, Gulnare, Caltowie, Bundaleer, Washpool, Gladstone and Nukunu communities.

Image credit: iStock.com/Indysystem