Food & Leisure: Albany Wind Farm

Monday, August 29, 2011

Albany Wind Farm

Location: Off Frenchman Bay Road, Albany, Western Australia
Coordinate: S35°02.9232′ E117°50.2420′

We were driving along the Frenchman Bay Road to The Gap & Natural Bridge, we came by a road sign stated "Wind Farm". After a short discussion, we decided to give a try, and this has turned to be a blessing for us. It was such a spectacular view, and our first experience seeing the Wind Farm.

Albany wind farm is approximately 12km south-west of the city centre. It is in an elevated position approximately 80m above the Southern Ocean. The farm has 12 wind turbine generators situated on site.

The turbines are the model ENERCON E-66, each with three 35 metres (115 ft) long blades made from fibreglass and kevlar (making them very flexible in order to withstand any conditions) and are fitted to 65 metres (213 ft) towers. The nose cone which the blades attach to weighs around 14 tonnes. These turbines are the largest that have been installed in the southern hemisphere.

The turbines operate automatically, with the three blades adjusted to make best use of power output from any wind direction or strength. They have been designed to withstand the strongest winds likely in Albany and incorporate special lightning protection. Each turbine has a rating of 1.8 MW and is able to produce electrical energy at wind speeds of 7–130 kilometres per hour (4–70 kn) at which the turbines are shut down. Maximum output is achieved at a wind speed of 50 kilometres per hour (27 kn).

The power output is supplying over half of Albany's home. As Albany is connected to Western Australian's main South West Interconnected System grid, when the wind isn't blowing the city is provided with power via transmission lines from Western Power's large coal and gas fired power stations further north.

I walked to one of the turbines, and standing right beneath it. I could listen to the blade tips whistle around at about 250km's per hour (full speed). From afar, we could see the blades swing slowly, but while standing right beneath it, then my view has changed dramatically.

From the top view for tourist, we also could see the vast Southern Ocean. As it was sunny day, we really enjoying the awesome view. Besides that, there is a trail connecting to the Bibbulmum track. We just spent our time viewing the wind farm, and its surrounding. In fact, more and more people coming to visit this great place.