Solar farm lights way for renewable energies in Moreton Bay

Published 29 August 2019

A solar farm at Beachmere which could power nearly 12,000 homes has been given the green light, with Moreton Bay Regional Council approving the development application at this morning’s meeting.

Council Spokesperson for Economic Development and Division 2 Councillor, Peter Flannery, said the solar farm was a first for the region and would feed renewable energy directly into the grid.

“Energex supported the development as a means of alleviating pressure on the grid and it aligns with the Queensland Government guidelines for solar farms — designed to help Queensland achieve a 50% renewable energy generation target by 2030,” Cr Flannery said.

 "Our region is one of the fastest growing in Queensland and this council has a proven track record of delivering infrastructure to cater to that growth.

 “Beachmere is just as pretty as parts of the Sunshine Coast but often gets overlooked, this kind of investment will help to change that. Not only will this solar farm provide renewable energy for the region, its construction and operation will generate jobs for locals as well.

 “We know Moreton Bay Region residents are enthusiastic about cost-saving technologies, in fact Elimbah topped the entire country for its uptake of rooftop solar panels according to the latest Climate Council report.

 “This solar farm could herald the beginning of a bright and sustainable future for the Moreton Bay Region and I’m thrilled to see Beachmere leading the charge.”

 When Construction at the solar farm, located at 260 Wallace Road North, begins it will take about 12 months to complete.

 The developer will be required to maintain a 10 metre landscaped buffer along all adjoining rural and residential properties.