Wind power surge as South Australia govt flicks switch

The opening of the second stage of the Snowtown wind farm will triple its capacity of operation, which in a year is enough to power the Sydney Opera House for 55 years.

South Australian Premier Jay Weatherill switched on the second stage of the operation on Sunday, enough to power to 230,000 homes.

The $450 million addition of 90 turbines will increase the farm’s capacity by 1350 gigawatt hours per year.

It makes Snowtown the largest wind farm in the state, the SA government says, and the second largest in Australia.

WIND POWERS FUTURE FOR SNOWTOWN

* In one day, one turbine from the Snowtown wind farm project generates enough power to run the Green Lantern roller coaster non-stop for 19 days.

* In one year, Snowtown II can generate enough energy to power the Sydney Opera House for 55 years.

* The 90 new turbines provide enough energy to power about 180,000 homes.

* Snowtown II CO2 emissions saved in one year would fill Lake Burley Griffin 12 times.