Nillumbik Shire Council's plans to develop a 1.5MW solar farm on the former Plenty landfill site continue to progress with the release of a concept design for the project's first phase.
The design, now available for the community to view, provides an indication of what the solar farm will look like upon completion.
The facility will generate approximately 2200 megawatt hours (MWh) of renewable energy each year – equal to powering more than 400 homes or 44,000 electric vehicles – and is anticipated to reduce carbon emissions by 2400 tonnes a year.
When completed, the first stage will be large enough to meet the electricity needs for all of Council's corporate facilities, including the Civic Centre and street lighting, delivering significant environmental benefits to the community in the process.
Council has entered into a partnership with renewable energy project company LMS Energy who are undertaking the design of the solar farm, and who will also carry out its construction and ongoing maintenance.
Construction of the first stage is expected to commence in mid-2022 with expected completion around mid-2023.
Nillumbik Mayor Peter Perkins said the development of the Solar Farm would be a key component of Council's 2022-2032 Climate Action Plan.
"The development of the solar farm is a significant and tangible example of Nillumbik Shire Council's commitment to meaningful climate action and reflects both Council's and our community's strong view of the need for such action," Cr Perkins said.
"In addition to the significant environmental benefits, the solar farm also offers the potential for savings to Council on its electrical power consumption costs compared with business-as-usual.
"I would encourage our residents to acquaint themselves with this exciting and very important project."
Council will hold two COVID-safe pop-up community information sessions at the site, next to Council's Operations and Recycling Centre, 290 Yan Yean Road, Plenty on the following dates:
- Saturday 20 November, 10am-12pm
- Saturday 27 November, 10am-12pm
To view the concept designs online visit Council's Participate Nillumbik site.
