Toowoomba region breaks more ground in Queensland’s solar landscape

Solar is continuing to become a staple of Queensland’s renewable energy landscape, with construction starting today at the new 121 megawatt Yarranlea solar farm, west of Toowoomba.

Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the Yarranlea Solar Farm was further confirmation that Queensland and the Palaszczuk Government was leading the charge in renewable energy investment.

“The Yarranlea Solar Farm is building on the state’s existing and current renewable energy projects as a $240 million, 200-job and 121 megawatts energy generator,” Dr Lynham said.

“The commencement of construction of the Yarranlea solar farm signifies the beginning of a 12-month journey to being operational, when the switch will be flicked and it begins powering approximately 32,000 homes.

“This investment by Risen Energy will see the installation of approximately 400,000; two by one metre solar panels over 250 hectares at Yarranlea, creating even more employment opportunities for the Toowoomba and Darling Downs region.

“Risen Energy is already a part of Queensland’s renewables sector with its panels used in a number of large-scale and commercial projects but this is the first instance in which Risen has taken on a direct role.

“This project also joins other renewable projects dotted along this region’s landscape including the Oakey and Darling Downs solar projects and the Coopers Gap Wind Farm.

“While Queensland is blessed with an abundance of sunshine, it has been the championing of the right investment climate by the Palaszczuk Government which has helped to secure this investment.”

Risen Energy’s Project Development & Investment Director John Zhong said the company was proud to be involved with the Yarranlea Solar Farm.

“This is Risen Energy’s first of many company-owned solar developments in Australia.

“The 121 megawatts Yarranlea Solar Farm will be constructed using as many local resources as possible including labour, equipment, contractors and accommodation.

“When completed the Yarranlea Solar Farm will supply power to homes, businesses and industries in the Darling Downs region and the South East,” Mr Zhong said.

“Risen Energy’s investment in Queensland is another important step in securing the state’s solar investment boom and its renewable economy,” Dr Lynham said.

There are 56 large-scale solar projects currently in the approvals or construction process in Queensland.

Media contact: David Potter 0428 411 617