First Solar reveals proposal to develop solar farm at Brewongle

The proposal is the second attempt at seeking a site for a solar farm in Brewongle in four years, after pressure from a local action group saw the first proposal from Photon Energy withdrawn in 2018.

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A spokesperson from First Solar said representatives are well aware of the debate generated from the last attempt, and "has reached out to those who registered an interest in the project in 2017 to discuss concerns and opportunities."

"This was a proactive action to help inform First Solar's decisions on how to approach the subsequent planning stages, including considering if the solar farm layout and design can be adapted to reduce concerns," the spokesperson said.

"First Solar recognises that the Brewongle community is proud of its agricultural heritage and for this reason, First Solar supports the landowner in pursuing sheep grazing amongst the panels.

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"We also understand the local concerns regarding the visual change a solar farm can bring to an area, so in the scoping and environment impact statement phases, First Solar will complete visual impact assessments and investigate how a significant vegetation buffer could reduce this change and to help maintain the character that the locals are keen to maintain."

While a configuration is yet to be confirmed, the spokesperson said the project will support a transition away from fossil fuel-based energy sources, saving 193,316 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually in In keeping with the intent of Bathurst Regional Council's Renewable Energy Action Plan.

"This project will also provide an option for a Power Purchase Agreement to support council moving towards its target of 50 per cent renewable energy by 2050."

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Bathurst councillor John Fry, who has been a vocal advocate for a shared consensus regarding a shift to renewable energy, said he's asked the state government for greater clarity around the proposed renewable energy zone [REZ] for the Central West/Orana region.

"From what I understand, there's enough capacity on the grid for three solar farms around Bathurst, so it's first in, best dressed," Cr Fry said.

"There's enormous flexibility regarding potential sites, and it's a matter of weighing up land devaluation against the future of the planet."

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