Large-scale solar has taken another step forward, as the ACT government confirms approval of the Royalla solar farm.
State minister for sustainable development Simon Corbell said the project will create "substantial public benefit", although some conditions will need to be met before construction can begin.
"The project will be the largest solar farm to be developed in Australia to date," he said, with 83,000 solar panels being installed on the 20-megawatt facility.
"The solar farm proposal will contribute to a reduction of around 560,000 tonnes of carbon emissions over 20 years, generating the equivalent amount of energy to power 4,400 Canberra homes," the minister added.
But what about these 'conditions' Corbell highlighted? Well, they are largely environmental guidelines to ensure the structure is not an eyesore and doesn't create other hazards.
As such, land management, environmental protection and environmental management agreements must be secured, alongside obtaining a waterway works licence.
A contamination assessment and pollution control plans will also be required.
Corbell tried to allay the fears of locals that the plant could have a visual impact on the area, saying this will only be low to moderate for a very small proportion of houses.
"Additional plantings to partly screen the development will be put in place to mitigate this," he stated.
Posted by Mike Peacock