Construction has kicked off at one of Victoria’s largest solar farms, which the State Government says will have the capacity to supply enough renewable energy to power every household in the Rural City of Benalla and Rural City of Wangaratta local government areas twice over.
Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio announced construction will start on the 250 megawatt (MW) Goorambat East Solar Farm and visited the nearby 99 megawatt Winton Solar Farm (pictured) on Thursday to celebrate its completion.
“Victoria’s future is renewable and the more renewable energy generation that comes online the more downward pressure is put on power bills for Victorians,” said Ms D’Ambrosio.
“It’s great to see companies like ENGIE invest in renewable energy generation projects in Victoria following the closure of their Hazelwood coal fired power generator in 2017.”
The Minister said the Goorambat East Solar Farm will create around 250 jobs, with significant regional benefits during construction and operation, including a community benefit fund of $75,000 per year for at least 25 years.
It’s envisaged the solar farm will be up running in 2027 and will be ENGIE’s first solar energy generation project in Victoria since the closure of its Hazelwood coal-fired power generator in 2017.
“Our investment in renewable energy will help keep the lights on as we transition to 95 percent renewable energy by 2035 and create more jobs and lower power prices for all Victorians,” said Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes.
The Winton Solar Farm, developed by Fotowatio Renewable Ventures has recently completed its commissioning and is now providing cheap, renewable solar power into Victoria’s electricity grid.
The Winton Solar Farm can generate enough power for 52,000 homes and created 200 jobs during its construction with support from the Allan Labor Government’s first round of Victorian Renewable Energy Target (VRET1) auctions.
