The tower is the first stage of the Asia Pacific Renewable Energy training Centre – a partnership between Federation TAFE and the renewable energy industry. Moreover, is part of federation university’s broader plan to become the leading training and research partner for Australia’s renewable energy industry.

The AUS$ 1.8 million project is funded by GPG, Vestas, Acciona and Tilt renewables to allow the renewable energy companies to train workers locally in Ballarat, the gateway to Victoria’s major windfarm projects in the state’s west.

The aim of the project is to feature ladders and safety equipment to give students real-world experience when training to work in the wind industry, or other industries that require working at heights, such as construction and maintenance.

Construction on the new wind turbine training tower is expected to be finished later this year, with stage two get underway in 2022. This includes a classroom, workshop, and training equipment to deliver specialized training courses, such as wind turbine maintenance and blade repair.

Once completed, federation TAFE will be the only training provider in Australia able to deliver the global wind organization (GWO) basic safety training and refresher training courses from a simulated wind turbine tower. The GWO accreditation is required to work on wind turbines in Australia and around the world.

The six-month intensive course allows electricians, mechanical fitters, and automotive technicians to gain the skills needed to work in Australia’s growing wind energy industry. it includes an internship with wind turbine manufacturers and service organizations, covering electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems training.

David Santo Tomás Menocal, GPG Project Director: “Federation University’s new training program and facility will play a critical role in training tradespeople for the thousands of job opportunities that will be created by the transition to renewable energy in Australia.”

GPG Australia is delighted to contribute to this important initiative, and it is looking forward to employing graduates of the program at wind farms that we develop in the future.