A “GROUND-breaking” event marked the commencement of construction for the 9.47-megawatt (DC) solar farm in Robinvale last week.
The Robinvale solar farm project, which is entirely owned by Suntech Power Japan, is located about 90 kilometers south-east of Mildura near the south bank of the Murray River.
A ceremony was held at the site with representatives of Suntech Power Development Australia, subsidiary of Suntech Power Japan, present at the ceremony.
Others in attendance included the landowners, local councillors, residents and business figures.
Suntech director Craig Nalder welcomed guests to the site, giving a welcome to country on behalf of the Traditional Owners, the Latji Latji People.
“When commissioned, the 9.47MW DC solar farm will provide enough energy to offset fossil fuel consumption for over 3100 homes and striving to improve the environment in the local area,” Mr Nalder said.
“Once complete, it will contain 24,921 380W Suntech mono solar modules.”
Mojo Power managing director Warren Murphy said Mojo would purchase 100 per cent of the energy generated by the solar farm in addition to the Large-scale Renewable Energy Targets (LREC).
“Mojo will on sell this renewable energy to its retail customer base,” Mr Murphy said.
“It’s exciting to help our customers with solar generation, theirs and ours.”
Swan Hill Rural City Council mayor Ann Young gave an opening address before a symbolic first shovel turning.
“This is the fourth solar farm for Swan Hill Rural city district indicating what a great location it is,” Cr Young said.
“The project is going to be great to employ people during the building stage and then permanent employees.”
Ms Young said the location of the district’s newest solar farm was ideal.
“It’s on a piece of land that hasn’t had any farming activity done in quite a few years making it really ideal spot because it’s not taking over farming land,” she said.
“It’s a real indication of potential growth for Robinvale.”
The solar farm is expected to start exporting energy by May 2020.
