Energy giant AGL has secured final approval for a mega $2 billion wind farm in the Riverina region of New South Wales. This marks one of the largest renewable-energy investments in the state’s history. The 1,300 MW Pottinger Wind Farm will be jointly owned by AGL and Someva Renewables. It will be built about 60 kilometres south-east of Hay. Once operational, the project is expected to play a key role in supporting Australia’s clean-energy transition. It will also deliver major economic benefits to the region.

Proponents say the development will help cut emissions and inject millions of dollars into local communities. The benefits will flow through new jobs, contracts and infrastructure upgrades. It also highlights the rapid pace of Australia’s shift toward large-scale renewable projects, with energy companies and governments actively replacing ageing coal generation with cleaner alternatives..

So, what does this mean for the area — and how has the community responded?

What does this mean?

When complete, the new wind farm is expected to power up to 590,000 homes. It has the potential to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions by three million tonnes annually.

It will feature 247 turbines and a 500 MW battery system. The battery will store surplus power to keep the network reliable.

Someva says the project will deliver $26 million to the Riverina over 30 years, plus more from new jobs and business opportunities.

“The wind farm will provide a major long-term boost to the economic and social prosperity of the Riverina – particularly communities in and surrounding Hay and Deniliquin,” Someva managing director Jamie Chivers said in a statement.

“It will also play an important role in delivering the clean energy needed to achieve Australia’s renewable-energy targets.

“From day one our focus has been on developing a wind farm that delivers real value for the Riverina by supporting locals, creating jobs and protecting what matters – including local biodiversity and cultural sites.”

900 jobs will be generated during construction of the project. Meanwhile, 50 further positions will be required for ongoing operations. The employment boost will include a wide range of construction and trade roles. These range from earthworks and transport roles through to electrical, mechanical and safety specialists.

Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt, announcing the Federal government’s decision to approve the project, trumpeted the project’s benefits to the local community.

“Not only will this project deliver clean, cheap, and reliable power to the Riverina and surrounds, but it will also improve infrastructure and increase jobs and investment in the local community,” Mr Watt said.

Initial construction is expected to commence in late 2026.

What has been the reaction?

The announcement has been met with a mixed reaction. Many local councils and residents support the project for the economic benefits it will bring to their communities.

However, the project faces opposition from locals who fear it will detract from the area’s natural beauty. Others are concerned about the reliability of wind power as an energy source.

As large-scale renewable projects like the Pottinger Wind Farm progress, demand for skilled tradespeople, engineers and project specialists will continue to rise. These developments are creating long-term opportunities across Australia’s construction industry. These range from site preparation and civil works to electrical installation and maintenance.

With a growing pipeline of clean-energy infrastructure, there has never been a better time for construction professionals to explore new career paths in the renewables sector. Whether you want to move into renewable-energy projects or advance your infrastructure career, now’s the time to act. Make sure your application stands out.

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Article References

Evans, D (7 October 2025) ‘AGL secures final approval for $2bn Pottinger Wind Farm in NSW’, News.com.au, accessed 24 October 2025.

Parkinson, G (19 September 2025) ‘Wind drought could soon be broken after huge energy park gets federal green tick’, News.com.au, accessed 24 October 2025.