TAMWORTH Regional Council could be set to block out a proposal to build a large scale solar farm to power its sites in town with questions raised over the financial viability.
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Last year, the council called for expressions of interest for "the installation of a large scale solar facility".
While it received 16 proposals, councillors will be urged to vote in favour of walking away from the project at Tuesday's meeting.
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The establishment of large scale solar farm might be out of reach, the report will also ask councillors to support the investigation of purchasing a higher percentage of renewable energy.
The council would also support the investigation and installation of more "behind-the-meter" options.
According to the report by sustainability officer Tim Hurcum, "projections for the price of electricity in the future building an off site solar facility is not considered financial viable".
"As an interim step, and to provide more information to council of the potential increase in cost to council of purchasing renewable energy, it is recommended the documentation for the next tender for the supply of electricity to council’s large sites be prepared requesting prices for renewable energy at various percentages, as well as grid prices," the report said.
Late last year, the council supported the installation of behind-the-meter solar power at 11 facilities, while knocking back an option at AELEC.
All of the council's current solar projects, including the airport and Swan Street, are expected to produce about seven per cent of its yearly energy consumption.