Department of Planning and Environment
© State of New South Wales through Department of Planning and Environment 2022. Information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing, October 2022, and is subject to change. For more information, please visit
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Wind Farm Energy Projects Compliance Program
Why wind energy projects are important and how are they regulated?
The NSW Government supports the development of a sustainable wind energy industry in NSW. The state has valuable wind resources with many of the best areas located near existing electricity transmission infrastructure. Wind energy projects generate clean energy, and support jobs and investment, particularly in our regional areas.
However, the potential impacts of wind energy projects need to be managed to ensure they are accurately identified, and any adverse outcomes are minimised. As the approval authority for State Significant wind energy projects, the Department of Planning and Environment is also responsible for monitoring compliance with conditions of approval.
It is important that this developing industry constructs and operates their projects responsibly within the rural landscapes they operate within.
When are wind energy projects classed as State Significant Development (SSD)?
Under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Planning Systems) 2021, wind energy projects are classified as an SSD when the capital investment value of the project exceeds $30 million (or $10 million in a prescribed environmentally sensitive area).
How many wind farms have SSD approvals and what is their status?
SSDs status as of 1 October 2022 Total
Approved and operation 13 Approved and under construction 5 Approved and not lapsed 6
Total 24
What was the focus of the program?
Since 2017, we have undertaken 75 inspections of 17 wind farms across NSW (which included proactive, reactive and surveillance). The department has liaised with relevant state and federal government agencies such as the Biodiversity Conservation Division, Environment Protection Authority, Transport for NSW as well as local councils.
In addition to monitoring general compliance with conditions of approval, we focus on particular conditions, specifically:
• road upgrades and construction requirements
Department of Planning and Environment
Wind Farm Energy Projects Compliance Program 2
• construction transport routes and site access points
• traffic management
• Aboriginal and European cultural heritage management
• vegetation clearing limits and areas of vegetation retention
• erosion, sediment controls and weed management
• ensuring that construction works are not commencing prior to meeting requirements.
Additionally, we review required reports along with independent audits to ensure applicants are complying with their conditions of consent.
What have we found through the compliance program?
Our program has found that projects are generally constructing or operating in accordance with their conditions of consent however some formal enforcement actions have been undertaken.
Additionally, we have identified and communicated opportunities for improvement directly to applicants where relevant.
What are the ongoing monitoring requirements and future actions?
We will continue to monitor wind energy developments across NSW and investigate allegations of non-compliance to ensure projects comply with their conditions of consent. The department publishes its compliance and enforcement activities on its website.
Where can I find more information?
Email: [email protected]
