Queensland Developer Proposes Solar Project to Revitalize Unused Farmland
A renewable energy developer has put forth plans for a small solar and battery project located east of Toowoomba, initiated by a local farmer seeking to make use of some underutilised land.
Future X Energy, part of a consortium of Queensland businesses engaged in commercial and residential solar installation, strata management, virtual power plants (VPPs), and electricity offers, proposes the Koolkuna solar battery project.
Details of the Project
This initiative involves a 25 megawatt (MW) solar farm paired with a 90 megawatt-hour (MWh) battery, situated close to the town of Lilydale. However, it has faced notable opposition online as it moves into the community consultation phase.
Originally, project plans were submitted to the Lockyer Valley Regional Council in November 2024, garnering 110 public submissions, including several from the same individuals.
In light of a law change last year mandating that all wind and solar projects exceeding 1 MW secure a community benefits agreement with local councils before entering the state-level planning phase, the Koolkuna project backers intend to resubmit their planning application later this year.
Site Selection and Farming Insights
The developer’s website indicates that the site was selected due to its closeness to a 33 kilovolt (kV) power line, alongside its “limited access to water, which has hampered previous agricultural productivity.”
Brett Milne, managing director of one of Future X’s companies focused on VPPs and project leader for Koolkuna, commented that the farmer had struggled to cultivate the land due to the lack of water, according to reports in the Courier Mail. He stated, “Currently, for instance, they have to transport water to the site, making it difficult to even have livestock as it requires bringing that water on-site.”
Despite the challenges, the developer plans to graze sheep beneath the solar panels.
Milne noted that the farmer sought their assistance to generate revenue from the property.
Future X Energy and Milne have yet to respond to requests for further comments.
Grazing Under Solar Panels
Grazing sheep under solar installations is a favoured approach among pro-solar farm advocates; however, it necessitates careful planning, including the installation of water provisions like troughs, proper fencing, and the planting of suitable grass seed prior to setting up equipment.
In addition to the Koolkuna project, Future X Energy has two further initiatives showcased on its website: a solar-battery hybrid in Oakey and a battery project in Purga, both located in Queensland.
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