Construction has started at the 121MW Yarranlea solar farm, west of Toowoomba.
The $200 million project, acquired by Risen Energy in February, is expected to create 200 jobs in the region.
Queensland Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the Yarranlea Solar Farm was further confirmation Queensland and the Palaszczuk Government was leading the charge in renewable energy investment.
“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,” Dr Lynham said.
“This investment by Risen Energy will see the installation of approximately 400,000 solar panels on 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.”
Risen Energy project development and 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,” Mr Zhong said.
“The solar farm will be constructed using as many local resources as possible including labour, equipment, contractors and accommodation.
“Risen Energy’s investment in Queensland is another important step in securing the state’s solar investment boom and its renewable economy.”
There are 56 large-scale solar projects currently in the approvals or construction process in Queensland.
