Thai firm to invest in wind-power projects in Australia, New Zealand

Ratchaburi Holding Electricity Generating Plc (RATCH) plans to invest in at least three more wind-power projects in Australia with combined capacity of 200 megawatts (MW) and one more project in New Zealand in the next few years, with the aim of becoming the largest renewable-power producer in Southeast Asia, The Nation reports. The move follows the company’s acquisition of a 56.16% stake in Transfield Services Infrastructure Fund (TSIF), a major infrastructure mutual fund in Australia, from Transfield Services Limited (TSE) in July. The transaction cost A$216 million (US$220 million). After the Australian firm was de-listed from the Australian Stock Exchange, the corporate name was changed to RATCH-Australia Corporation (RAC). The company will serve as RATCH’s investment arm to expand in Australia. “[Some] areas in Australia have constant wind speeds, staying at 8 meters per second [m/s], which is suitable to develop this type of project and makes it a worthwhile investment,” said President Noppol Milinthanggoon. The fund controls a combined capacity of 1,126 MW, comprising wind power (67.5 MW), natural gas (569 MW) and coal-fired power (489 MW). The Toora wind farm, one of three wind farms which is 100% owned by RAC, is located 170 km southeast of Melbourne. It is the second large-scale wind farm in Victoria state, consisting of 12 turbines, with a combined capacity of 21 MW. Wind power represents the largest form of renewable energy globally, generating around 16,000 MW. (November 7, 2011)