Key approvals ticked for Meadow Creek solar and storage

Solar panel arrays with red soil underneath
Solar farm (Image: Shutterstock)

Meadow Creek Solar Farm has secured planning and environmental approvals following a rigorous two-year assessment process.

The approved hybrid 332MW solar power and 1GWh battery energy storage system (BESS) project will generate enough clean electricity to power 110,000 homes while enhancing grid stability.

Related article: Mt Fyans Wind Farm gets planning approval in Victoria

The approvals include a planning permit granted by the Victorian Minister for Planning, and authorisation under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999).

The two-year application and assessment process featured extensive community consultation, leading to approvals with conditions that address stakeholder concerns on setbacks, waterways, and construction management.

The proposed Meadow Creek Solar Farm is located 27km southeast of Wangaratta and 28km east of Glenrowan in Victoria. The 566ha site has been carefully chosen for its solar energy potential while ensuring continued agricultural use.

The proposal features a substation, terminal station and 156ha transmission line easement connecting the solar farm and BESS to the existing Dederang to Glenrowan transmission network.

Meadow Creek Solar Farm development director Cameron Munro said, “Meadow Creek Solar Farm is a vital project that will supply clean, stable renewable energy to over 100,000 Victorian homes.

Related article: Richmond Valley Solar & Storage project gets planning tick

“We’re also committed to delivering direct benefits to the nearest community, including reinvesting a portion of the project’s returns locally.”

“We respect the diverse views shared throughout the planning process and thank those who participated in good faith, including the many supporters who stepped forward. We also extend our gratitude to the Taungurung Land and Waters Council for their invaluable support as the Registered Aboriginal Party.”

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