As a part of its zero-emission goal, Monash University has recently inked a purchase agreement with a Victorian wind farm near Horsham in western Victoria. Reportedly, the Monash University is already well down on the path of 100% renewables and has already installed solar power projects across its campuses that power an average of 250 Australian households.

Under the terms of agreement, Monash University will buy the rights to both electric power and renewable energy certificates (REC’s) that will be generated by the Murra Warra wind farm in Victoria.

If sources are to be believed, Macquarie Group, in March 2018, had purchased an equity stake in the wind energy project, thereby marking its largest yet push into the domestic renewable energy market. The company, in tandem with developer RES Australia, has announced that it will be developing the 203 MW second stage of the Victorian wind power project.

According to the reports, the wind farm is currently under the construction phase. However, the 226 MW first stage of the project, which consists of 61 turbines, is scheduled to be operational from next year. Post completion, the project will comprise over 116 turbines.

Dr. Kendra Wasiluk, Monash University’s sustainable development planner, considers the new project purchase agreement as a major step forward for the institution in lowering its carbon footprint as well in managing its electricity prices.

According to the industry experts, the deal is likely to bring the university into the line of a powerful consortium of corporate renewable energy buyers led by Telstra.

James Gerraty, head of Telstra Energy, was quoted saying that adding Monash to the consortium strengthens the buyers group for the Murra Warra Wind Farm. Welcoming the university into the project, he further added that the firm will continue to look for ways to make use of its expertise in the renewable energy sector and help Australian businesses & organization meet their energy challenges.