Construction will start on a new $200 million-dollar solar farm near Gunnedah this year.
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Photon Energy is hopeful the solar farm will be live by 2020.
“Jobs will increase in Gunnedah with over 100 people expected to work on construction of the new solar farm. Long-term, there will be 10 operational jobs, adding to the expertise and economy of the region," managing director Michael Gartner said.
“We appreciate the rigour of the NSW planning process and are satisfied that the government has acknowledged the diligence with which we have developed the Gunnedah Solar Farm project.
"Of course, we still welcome feedback from the local community as we continue through the construction process. We will keep our neighbours and the local community informed as we develop the construction timeline."
The solar farm project proposal came under fire in 2018 from owners of neighbouring properties who were concerned about the potential impacts of flooding, the use of agricultural land, and the change in visual aspect. A number of residents declined to comment on the solar farm's approval when contacted by the NVI.
We appreciate the rigour of the NSW planning process.
- Michael Gartner, Photon Energy
The 302-hectare solar farm will be constructed within an existing 763-hectare farm on Orange Grove Road, and sheep grazing will continue in the solar farm area.
Mr Gartner said Photon Energy was "committed to being a long-term supporter of the region".
“We look forward to continuing our relationship with the Gunnedah community which has been very constructive and helpful," he said.
The Department of Planning listed Gunnedah Solar Farm as "approvable" in November 2018 and referred the final decision to the IPC because the department received more than 25 public objections to the solar farm and associated infrastructure.