Marmadua Energy Park is a proposed renewable energy project located north of Kumbarilla State Forest, approximately 22 kilometres from Tara and 37 kilometres from Dalby in Queensland’s Western Downs region.
The project comprises up to 100 wind turbines and the potential for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). If approved, it could generate up to 700MW of renewable energy – enough to power approximately 480,000 homes.
Marmadua Energy Park is being developed by Cubico Sustainable Investments (Cubico), one of the world’s largest privately owned renewable energy companies.
Cubico develops, owns and operates renewable energy projects across Australia and internationally, with projects including Wambo Wind Farm, Middle Creek Energy Hub and Curyo Wind Farm.
Queensland is transitioning towards a cleaner energy future, with increasing investment in renewable energy generation, storage and transmission infrastructure.
Projects like Marmadua Energy Park can help support this transition by generating renewable electricity and contributing to Queensland’s future energy needs.
The project site consists predominantly of cleared land used for grazing and broadacre cropping, minimising the need for vegetation clearing and allowing the project to integrate with existing land uses where possible.
The location was selected due to its strong wind resources, low environmental sensitivity and access to existing transmission infrastructure.
A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) stores electricity generated by renewable energy projects for use when needed.
Stored energy can be released back into the electricity network during periods of low wind or high demand, helping support a reliable and secure power supply.
Marmadua Energy Park is currently progressing through the planning and approvals phase.
During this stage, environmental studies, technical investigations and community consultation help to inform project design and support approval applications.
A range of specialist assessments are being undertaken to inform project design and planning, including:
These studies help identify potential impacts and measures to avoid, minimise and manage them.
Large-scale renewable energy projects must meet relevant State and Commonwealth planning and environmental requirements.
In Queensland, renewable energy projects are typically assessed through the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA), with some projects also requiring assessment under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).
Community engagement is an important part of the planning process and will continue throughout the life of the project.
There are a range of opportunities to learn about the project, ask questions and provide feedback, including community information sessions, one-on-one meetings, surveys, newsletters, community events, email, phone and the project website.
Cubico is undertaking a range of environmental studies to better understand existing flora, fauna and habitat values across the project area.
The findings from these assessments help inform project design and identify opportunities to avoid and minimise potential impacts during construction and operations.
Yes. Cubico continues to work closely with the Barunggam and Bigambul people, together with archaeologists and heritage specialists, to better understand the cultural significance of the project area.
This work helps inform project planning and ensures cultural heritage considerations are incorporated throughout project development.
Water will be required during construction and Cubico is currently assessing potential supply options.
The final water source will be determined through the planning and approvals process, taking into account local availability, environmental considerations and project requirements.
Detailed noise assessments are undertaken as part of the planning and approvals process to ensure compliance with Queensland regulations and approval conditions.
Specialist consultants assess potential operational noise and, where required, mitigation measures are incorporated into the project design.
Independent reviews by leading Australian and international health and scientific organisations have found no consistent evidence that wind turbines cause adverse health effects.
Wind energy projects in Australia must meet strict planning, environmental and noise requirements, with detailed assessments undertaken before approval.
Bushfire risk and emergency management are important considerations in the planning and design of Marmadua Energy Park.
Cubico works closely with relevant fire and emergency authorities to ensure bushfire risks are appropriately assessed and managed. Access tracks and roads associated with the project may also assist emergency access in some circumstances.
If approved, Marmadua Energy Park is expected to create up to 300 jobs during construction and approximately 15 ongoing operational roles.
Employment opportunities may include engineering, electrical and mechanical trades, civil construction, logistics, administration and project support services.
Yes. The project is expected to create opportunities for local contractors, suppliers and service providers across a range of industries.
Local businesses are encouraged to register their interest through the project website to stay informed about future opportunities.
Marmadua Energy Park has the potential to deliver a range of benefits for the Western Downs region, including:
Since 2024, Cubico has provided community grants and sponsorship funding to support local events, organisations and initiatives across the region.
Cubico is working closely with Western Downs Regional Council to develop a Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) for Marmadua Energy Park.
The CBA is intended to help ensure the project delivers meaningful and lasting benefits for host landholders and the broader community.
Potential initiatives being explored include road and telecommunications improvements, housing initiatives, health services, First Nations workforce support, environmental projects, education partnerships, recreation facilities and community funding programs.
You can stay informed by:
Cubico values open, respectful and responsive communication with landholders, neighbours and the broader community.
If you have a question, concern or would like to provide feedback, please contact the project team:
For more detailed information about Marmadua Energy Park, including fact sheets, newsletters and more project resources, visit our Resources page.