AROUND 130 workers will be needed to build one of Australia’s largest solar farms, which will be built on a 485 acre site on Rockhampton’s outskirts.
Eco Energy World Australia’s Mark Love stated that the firm wants to discuss plans with the community before submitting a formal development application.
A community meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. in Bouldercombe, with questions and “as much discussion as possible.”
Mr Love explained, “This is a community consultation process that we believed was vital to the residents of Bouldercombe.”
The building phase will provide the most work opportunities, with up to 130 expected for the project.
Mr Love stated that four to six people would be engaged full-time to maintain the panels and block during the operating period, which would last 30 years.
Mr. Love stated that the company encouraged the use of local enterprises, and that a contractors registration will be provided to the construction company.
Mr Love said, “It’s a terrific chance for Rockhampton and Queensland to reach renewable energy ambitions.”
“Solar is gradually becoming the preferred renewable energy source due to its lowering cost year after year, and Queensland, particularly Rockhampton, is a highly appealing location.
“We’re hoping everything goes smoothly during the planning process.”
Eco Energy Australia is owned by a developer located in the United Kingdom, with solar facilities in the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Germany, France, Russia, and Sweden.
They have several more projects in Queensland that have been authorised and are scheduled to start building this year, including a 140 megawatt farm near Maryborough and a 20 megawatt plant near Chinchilla.
Mr. Love stated that once constructed, the facility would have little influence on the region, with just periodic mowing.
“We pay special attention to weed control and fire danger,” he explained.
“We also address aesthetic effect by screening as much as possible with natural species.
“We do not destroy any protected plants from any of our solar projects.
“Our policy is always to keep as much greenery as possible, especially with wildlife pathways.”
10.30 a.m.: ONE OF THE NATION’S LARGEST SOLAR FARM COMPANIES has revealed plans to build a 200-plus megawatt solar farm in Central Queensland.
Tonight, Eco Energy World Australia will meet with the Bouldercombe community to discuss plans for one of Australia’s largest solar farms.
Although no application has been submitted to Rockhampton Regional Council, Councillor Ellen Smith believes the project might produce hundreds of employment.
“There is the potential for hundreds of local employment while the farm is being built, as well as additional ones once it is done, as well as helping Queensland meet its renewable energy objectives,” Cr Smith said.
“It’s all about our region leading the way in terms of environmentally beneficial and renewable energy sources for our community.
“It’s exciting and in its early stages, but our future is looking cleaner and greener as a result of foreign firms choosing to invest in our region.”
There will be more.
