Victoria launches first public windfarm as latrobe valley transitions from coal to clean energy

Victoria is making history with its first publicly owned windfarm, as the state’s electricity commission invests $650 million in a transformative renewable energy project. The Delburn windfarm, featuring 33 turbines, will be constructed in the Latrobe Valley starting in early 2026, marking a significant shift for a region long dominated by coal-fired power generation.

The State Electricity Commission’s acquisition of this project represents more than just an infrastructure investment—it symbolizes a “new chapter” for the Latrobe Valley, according to climate advocates. This region was previously home to the notorious Hazelwood coal power station, making the transition to clean energy particularly meaningful for local communities and environmental progress.

The publicly owned model offers several advantages over private renewable energy developments. Public ownership ensures that energy profits return to the community rather than private shareholders, while giving the government greater control over energy security and pricing. This approach aligns with Victoria’s broader strategy to transition away from fossil fuels while maintaining affordable, reliable electricity supply.

The Delburn windfarm project signals a growing trend toward public renewable energy ownership in Australia, as governments seek to accelerate the clean energy transition while capturing economic benefits for taxpayers. For the Latrobe Valley, this development offers hope for economic revitalization and job creation in the renewable energy sector, helping offset losses from the coal industry’s decline. The project demonstrates how regions historically dependent on fossil fuel extraction can successfully pivot toward sustainable energy futures.