Australian developer Infigen Energy is to supply Swinburne University of Technology with 100% renewable energy from the almost 58MW Cherry Tree wind farm in the state of Victoria.
Electricity delivery to the university will start on 1 July from the project, which is located near the town of Seymour in the Goulburn Valley.
The wind farm, which features 16 V136-3.45MW turbines delivered in 3.6MW power optimised mode, is currently undergoing final commissioning and testing.
It was developed by Infigen Energy and sold to John Laing Group in December 2018.
Infigen is managing construction and once completed will buy all the power generated.
Over 70% of Swinburne’s emissions come from its electricity use, about 30,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent a year.
“This latest development underpins Swinburne’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, as well as supporting a Victorian project and employment in the region,” the university said.
Swinburne vice-chancellor and president Linda Kristjanson said: “This agreement is a significant milestone for us as we continue to demonstrate our resolve to ensure a sustainable future by significantly reducing our carbon footprint.
“This also brings us a step closer to our goal of being carbon neutral by 2025.
“I look forward to collaborating with like-minded organisations, such as Infigen Energy, as we continue to focus on embedding sustainability across Swinburne and our daily operations.”
Infigen managing director and chief executive Ross Rolfe said: “Swinburne is leading by example, proving that a clean and environmentally sustainable future is possible for Australia.
“Swinburne joins a growing list of Australian businesses who are proactively decarbonising their operations for the long-term benefit of their stakeholders.
“We are delighted to be partnering with Swinburne and we look forward to working closely together over the coming years.”