AN $82 million solar farm has been approved just outside of Narrabri that will generate enough electricity to power up to 22,000 homes.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The development by Canadian Solar will be located on a 190-hectare block off Old Gunnedah Road and is expected to create up to 112 construction jobs, along with five ongoing jobs.
Approximately 200,000 solar panels, along with associated infrastructure, will be installed over nine months.
The 60-megawatt solar farm will generate 132,000 megawatt hours a year and save up to 127,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per annum.
Its operational life is approximately 35 years, after which all infrastructure will be decommissioned and removed – however, the project may involve upgrades that could extend its lifetime.
READ MORE
Canadian Solar promised employees would be drawn from the local community where possible, and has already started discussions with local accommodation providers to ensure there are enough options for construction employees.
In its assessment, the NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) said the project found the right balance between maximising the efficient of the solar development, while minimising the potential impacts on surrounding land users and the environment.
“The project would also stimulate economic investment in renewable energy and provide flow-on benefits to the local community through job creation and capital investment,” the report stated.
“Overall, the Department considers the site to be suitable for the project as it has good solar resources and is close to the existing electricity network."
The project drew comments from six government agencies and two from the general public, with only one objection.
DPE noted the potential flooding impact was “a key issue”; however, modelling indicated the project was “unlikely to have a consequential impact on flood waters”.