The Department of Planning and Environment paved the way for a new solar farm in the State’s Central West which will create 100 local jobs and inject $130 million into the local economy.
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Located in Parkes, Goonumbla Solar Farm Pty Ltd plans to construct and operate a 70 megawatt solar plant, including a grid connection, on the 385 hectare site.
With an initial capacity of 70 megawatts, the project will generate up to 168,000 megawatts of clean electricity per year, enough energy to power 28,000 homes and save up to 141,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year.
The Goonumbla Solar Farm would be located adjacent to the proposed Parkes Solar Farm.
The Parkes Solar Farm was approved by the Department in June this year.
Clay Preshaw, Director of Resource Assessments, said the proposed solar farm would contribute to Australia's renewable energy targets.
“After a comprehensive assessment the Department found the project would assist in transitioning the electricity sector from coal and gasfired power stations to renewable energy sources and would have minimal potential impact on the surrounding land users and the environment,” Mr Preshaw said.
“The project is part of continuing efforts towards securing a reliable, affordable and clean energy future for NSW.
The Department’s approval comes with other strict conditions including:
· upgrading and maintaining local roads
· establishing, enhancing and maintaining a vegetation buffer along Henry Parkes Way and Pat Meredith Drive to reduce the visual impacts of the project
· rehabilitating the site within 18 months of the cessation of operations.
