Victoria Greenlights Major 450-MW Solar Project

• Victoria’s largest solar farm, Hazelwood North, is here! This $651M project promises 500 jobs, powers 150,000 homes, and drives the state towards its renewable energy goals.

Victoria's government has approved the construction of the Hazelwood North Solar Farm, set to be the largest solar farm in the state, with a capacity of 450 MW and an accompanying four-hour battery energy storage facility of 1,800 MWh. The AUD 651 million (USD 434 million) project aligns with the state’s renewable energy goals, aiming for 65% renewable generation by 2030 and 95% by 2035.

Expected to create 500 local jobs, the project will provide power to approximately 150,000 homes. Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio emphasized the importance of this initiative for Victoria’s energy transition, particularly in the historically significant Latrobe Valley. Manthos Investments is leading the project, with planning handled by Robert Luxmoore Pty Ltd and Cogency Australia Pty Ltd.

What impact will the Hazelwood North Solar Farm have on Victoria's renewable energy landscape?

The approval and construction of the Hazelwood North Solar Farm will have a significant impact on Victoria's renewable energy landscape in several ways:

- Enhanced Renewable Capacity: With a capacity of 450 MW, the solar farm will substantially boost Victoria’s overall renewable energy generation, pushing it closer to its targets of 65% renewable electricity by 2030 and 95% by 2035.

- Energy Security and Diversification: The inclusion of a 1,800 MWh battery energy storage facility will allow for stable energy delivery and grid reliability, mitigating intermittency issues commonly associated with solar power.

- Job Creation and Economic Growth: The projection of creating 500 local jobs signifies not just immediate employment opportunities but also long-term economic benefits for the Latrobe Valley region, traditionally reliant on fossil fuels.

- Encouraging Investment in Renewable Projects: The large scale of the Hazelwood North Solar Farm may attract further investments in renewable energy infrastructure from both local and international developers, helping to position Victoria as a leader in green technology.

- Support for Local Communities: By providing power to approximately 150,000 homes, the solar farm will contribute to lower electricity costs for residents and businesses in the region, enhancing energy accessibility.

- Environmental Benefits: The project aligns with broader efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Victoria, supporting Australia’s commitments under international climate agreements and helping the state transition away from coal dependency.

- Innovation in Energy Solutions: Implementing state-of-the-art solar technology paired with battery storage will serve as a model for future renewable projects, driving innovation and efficiency in energy generation and storage methods.

- Infrastructure Development: The construction phase will lead to improvements in local infrastructure, including roads and utilities, that can facilitate further developments in the area.

- Community Engagement and Education: The project presents an opportunity for local initiatives aimed at educating the community on the benefits of renewable energy, fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility.

- Strategic Positioning in the Energy Market: By increasing its renewable energy generation capacity, Victoria can play a more significant role in the national energy market, potentially influencing energy prices and availability across Australia.

- Government Policy Alignment: The project reflects and supports the Victorian government's commitment to renewable energy policies, potentially leading to more stringent mandates and goals for future developments.

By addressing these aspects, the Hazelwood North Solar Farm will not only contribute to immediate energy needs but also lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and resilient energy future in Victoria.