Wind scientists have chosen the best site in NSW for Australia's first grid connected wind farm.

CSIRO researchers have used computer models of wind flow over complicated, hilly terrain, together with high quality field data, to calculate potential wind energy yield around the State. They concluded that one of the best spots to set up a wind farm was at Crookwell, in the Southern Tablelands.

"Placing a turbine just 50 metres away from the optimum position can cost thousands of dollars annually in lost energy production,"said Dr Peter Coppin of the CSIRO Centre for Environmental Mechanics. "Except in extremely windy areas, the positioning of a turbine is vital. In N.S.W. we have had to look around for the most productive areas."

It is windy on top of a mountain because moving air has to be squeezed through a smaller area of atmosphere. Mountain peaks are therefore an obvious place for a single turbine, but it becomes difficult when deciding where to place the turbines making up a wind farm.

Pacific Power have funded the wind pattern research as part of their strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"To use an oil exploration analogy, we have been doing the prospect drilling, starting off looking at large areas with potential, then zooming in to look at the best places to dig" said Dr Coppin. "We're also mapping the reserves."

NSW Treasurer and Minister for Energy Michael Egan today announced the proposed 5 megawatt wind farm in the Crookwell area, which will supply electricity for 3500 houses. The wind farm will be constructed and operated by Pacific Power and Great Southern Energy.

More information from: Dr Peter Coppin, 06 246 5576 (bus); 018 481 203 (mobile) Mr Simon Torok, 06 246 5558 (bus); 06 282 5269 (home) Pacific Power contact: Robert Marlin 02-9268 8309