Barnawartha Solar and Energy Storage
The Project will supply electricity generated from solar irradiation into the NEM and is expected to have an installed capacity of up to ~64 Megawatts (MW), with ~64MW of battery storage located on the site. The facility will generate enough electricity on average to power ~20,000 Victorian homes per annum resulting in a saving of over ~135,500 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Barnawartha Solar and Energy Storage Location
Barnawartha Solar and Energy Storage Concept Design
Site Selection
The site has been selected for the Project due to its favourable levels of solar exposure (estimated to be approximately 17.3 (MJ/m2) daily) as well as the following site conditions:
The topography is relatively flat and clear of vegetation, ensuring a straightforward and efficient layout, construction and ongoing maintenance process.
The site has direct access to the existing transmission line and the existing road network.
The Project will not result in the loss of high-quality agricultural land as identified in the Agricultural Impact Assessment.
There are a limited number of sensitive receptors (such as residential dwellings) in proximity to the site.
The limited amount of vegetation on the site means that the Project does not require major vegetation clearing.
There is a mixture of land uses in the wider surrounding area, as well as non-agricultural built form.
Generally, solar developments are compatible with farming regions and can co-exist with existing agricultural operations adjacent.
Planning Permit Link
Please click here to view our issued permits in the Ministerial permits register.
Construction Timeline
Community
Community engagement is important to us at Gentari Solar Australia and to the successful development and construction of Barnawartha Solar Farm. We welcome feedback, comments and input from the community throughout the life of the project, from inception through to ongoing operations.
Consultation activities commenced in 2018, when the Project was first discussed with surrounding residents. The consultation reopened in February 2022 when the Project was progressed and the proposed plans were progressed. The consultation period will remain open until the construction of the Project has been completed.
The community consultation is held to ensure full engagement with the local community via multiple communication channels, including e-mails, phone calls, media (TV, radio and newspaper), social media, flyer distribution and in person meetings.
Several measures have been adopted and incorporated as a result of this consultation period including:
Fencing along Baxter Whelans Road has been moved further into the property
Inverters and batteries have been moved to locations further within the Project area
Increased screening around the Project boundary of Baxter Whelans Road
The substation location has been moved further north, away from Baxter-Whelans Road
All cables from the solar farm will be run along the existing overhead line (OHL) network and then underground within the City of Wodonga road reserve.
All vegetation has been retained where possible
Employment
Throughout the public consultation process ARP and Gentari Solar Australia encouraged local companies to get in contact with us to register their interest in working on the Project. Their details have been logged and invitations will be offered for them to tender for the works when relevant.
During the construction phase, the Project is expected to create approximately 200 job opportunities that would support the local rural economy. During the ongoing operational phase, a further ten job opportunities for maintenance staff and technicians are expected to be created.
Project Updates & Employment / Work opportunities
To be added to our list for solar farm updates please use the contact form below: