WITH the approvals process for a solar power plant at Brewongle well underway, the applicant, Photon Energy, has moved to address community concerns.
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Land for the 203 hectare power plant has been leased and, if approved, an estimated 397,576 photovoltaic (PV) panels would be erected.
Residents have contacted the Western Advocate with a range of concerns about the development, including its construction on prime agricultural land, aesthetics, reflection, heat production, a reduction in nearby land values and effects on stock, flora and fauna.
Photon managing director Michael Gartner said the Brewongle site was chosen for a number of reasons.
“The most efficient use of energy is to generate the energy as close to the end user as possible,” he said.
“This reduces the energy line losses and ensures maximum utilisation of the energy produced.
“Photon took into account several factors during the site selection stage of the project, including location to powerlines, environmental, social and economics.”
Mr Gartner said panels do not generate heat and items including buildings, concrete and snow have “higher reflectivity than solar panels”.
“Solar panels are designed to absorb light and utilise anti reflecting coatings that have no effect on cattle, sheep, wildlife or the environment,” he said.
The ground under the panels will still receive sunlight, Mr Gartner said, and the area can continue to be grazed.
When asked, Photon did not directly address how much water would be used to remove dust and how often this would be done.
“The panels are installed at an angle to allow for self cleaning properties resulting in very minimal cleaning,” Mr Gartner said.
Photon Energy Australia is part of Photon Energy Group, which is based in the Netherlands.
“Photon Energy is an Australian organisation which employs local resources, labour and contractors and is also subject to Australian tax and business laws,” Mr Gartner said.
Photon is preparing for further community consultation and communications based on feedback from the community.