The NSW Department of Planning and Environment has approved the $119 million solar farm project in Mulwala, near Albury.
The Department approved the 140-megawatt (MW) solar project located just outside of Mulwala, adding to the growing hub of solar energy projects established in the Riverina area.
Resource and Energy Assessments Director, Clay Preshaw, said the multi-million-dollar solar farm will power more than 52,000 homes, boost the economies for local communities, and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
“The short-term benefits would be an increased workforce of about 130 construction jobs during building and on-going maintenance jobs afterwards,” he said.
The NSW Government assesses all applications on their merits, under planning legislation and clear official policies to consider any potential benefits or impacts to the environment, the economy and the community.
There were only two public objections to this proposal. One local community member raised concerns regarding land use compatibility, while one special interest group commented on the visual impacts as well as land use compatibility.
Mr Preshaw said the project approval followed the release of a new Large-Scale Solar Energy Guideline developed by the Department and designed to lead applicants and the community through the assessment process for state significant solar farm proposals.
“The NSW Large Scale Solar Guideline aims to provide clear and consistent guidance to the community, applicants, industry and regulators on the environmental and social impacts of state significant solar energy projects, encouraging early and continued consultation, and suitable site selection
“The new guideline reflects the NSW Government’s strong commitment to NSW’S booming solar energy market.
“To date, the NSW Government and independent regional planning panels have approved a total of 51 large scale solar projects across the state,” Mr Preshaw said.
For more information, visit the Major Projects website
