Australia’s First Wind Farm to Retire Its Turbines After Two Decades of Service

One of Australia’s pioneering wind farms is about to enter a new chapter, as 14 of its towering turbines are carefully dismantled after more than 20 years in operation.

Located on the scenic green hills near Port Fairy in southwest Victoria, the Codrington Wind Farm was the first commercial wind project in the country. Built in 2001, it has long been celebrated as a model site for wind energy thanks to its ideal conditions and reliable winds.

Now, after nearly 24 years, its 50-metre-high turbines have reached the end of their working life.

A Thoughtful Approach to Decommissioning

Rather than using explosives or other disruptive methods, Pacific Blue, the company behind Codrington, has chosen a more delicate approach: each turbine will be taken apart by cranes, piece by piece — essentially reversing the original assembly process.

“This decision was made to ensure a careful and respectful process, minimizing disruption to the local environment and community,” a Pacific Blue spokesperson told Renew Economy.

Setting a New Standard

Pacific Blue says it hopes to lead the way in responsible decommissioning practices, just as it did with early renewable energy development. By opting for cranes over more aggressive methods, the company aims to win the support of the local community and set a positive example for other wind projects approaching retirement.

What’s Next for the Site?

While the turbines are being taken down, there’s been no official word yet on whether new wind technology will replace them at the same location. However, with Codrington’s proven track record and favorable wind conditions, the site remains a strong candidate for future renewable energy development.

As one era ends, Codrington’s legacy lives on — marking not just the end of a chapter, but the beginning of new possibilities for clean energy in Australia.