The $312 million Summerville Solar Farm, located 57 kilometres southwest of Lismore, will have a generating capacity of 90 megawatt (MW).
It will also boast 360-megawatt hour (MWh) battery energy storage system so the farm can capture and release solar energy to the grid during peak times and outside daylight hours.
Clean energy produced from the solar farm will save more than 139,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually.
The proponent will also provide approximately $3.1 million to Richmond Valley Council to deliver infrastructure and community benefits.
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) responded to key issues raised during the community consultation period including biodiversity and fire safety.
The project has been approved, subject to strict conditions including a 10-metre perimeter for fire safety and others to manage or mitigate any impacts on traffic and the environment.
The Summerville Solar Farm requires approval from the Commonwealth Government before construction can begin.
Since March 2023, the Minns Government has delivered 34 renewable energy State Significant Development assessments, including five wind farms, 12 solar farms and 15 large-scale energy storage systems.
The projects have the combined capacity to generate 6 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy, and store 7.8 GW / 21.5 GWh of energy.
This could save an estimated 10.5 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year and power 2.78 million homes while boosting the state's energy security.
