Objections to solar energy project intensify

The current proposed location is on the eastern slopes of the Camel Range, in the middle of the Heathcote wine geographia; and the location is “unsuitable” according to local winegrowers in and around that area.

The planned Cooba solar power plant is a 350-megawatt project and is proposed to cover 665 hectares of a 1,147-hectare site south of Colbinabbin.

Venn Energy is leading the project. on its website He noted that the proposed location was chosen for its “excellent sunlight exposure,” proximity to an existing transmission line, and lack of existing native vegetation and opportunity for minimal harm to wildlife.

Colbinabbin Renewable Action Group said the proposed location was inappropriate as it was located on “prime agricultural land” and the land was “highly arable”.

It is also believed that a large area filled with eight-meter-tall solar panels will visually disturb the area.

Ms Lovell told parliament after a recent visit to Colbinabbin to hear community concerns that she did not want to see the area covered in solar panels.

He also talked about the Victorian Government’s own planning guidance; This guide states that “a solar energy installation should not result in the loss of productive, state-important agricultural land.”

Ms Lovell said Campaspe Shire Council, residents and winegrowers in the area were concerned the solar installation would impact tourism and the microclimate in the future.

“Dozens of wineries have invested in cellar doors and infrastructure to make the most of the views and attract tourists, but this giant solar farm could soon spoil the landscape and ruin the best efforts of local businesses,” Ms Lovell said.

“The rollout of new energy facilities must be sensitive to the existing uses of the land on which they hope to be built and be respectful of community concerns.”

In late September, State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland wrote to the planning minister to ensure appropriate consultations were conducted to include local voices and local leadership.

While local government elections are ongoing and the council is in caretaker mode, the decisions and opinions of councilors or council officials cannot be voiced.

Previous term Campaspe Shire councilors expressed his concerns has been involved with the project on several occasions and has submitted a proposal to the planning minister asking that the advertised planning application period for the Cooba solar farm occur outside the watchdog period so that the new council can respond appropriately to the advertised planning application. .

State Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad said it was crucial that the local council had a say on the Cooba solar project.

“It is essential that this project is properly reviewed to ensure all local voices are heard and the only way to achieve this is to extend the consultation period,” Ms Broad said.

Mrs Cleeland on 13 August I submitted a petition 1,362 signatures called on the Victorian Government to reject Venn Energy’s application to develop the Cooba solar facility.

“I implore the Minister to listen to the people of Colbinabbin and surrounding communities,” Ms Cleeland said.

When Free Press Reached out for comment In June, a Venn Energy representative said the plant had been consulting with the Colbinabbin community, including its direct neighbors and Campaspe Shire Council, for two years, during which time concerns had been addressed.

They also said Venn Energy will commit to establishing a community benefit fund with an annual contribution of $200,000 per year from the Cooba solar project over the operational life of the project.

Venn Energy expects the solar facility to be operational by 2026.