The NSW Independent Planning Commission (IPC) has conditionally approved Trina Solar’s $250 million Glenellen Solar Farm, located 2km north-east of Jindera in the Greater Hume Shire.
The solar farm, which marks a major renewable energy development in NSW, proposed by Trina Solar, consists of a 200-megawatt solar farm set to contribute to a lower emissions energy sector, generating 200 construction jobs and 10 operational jobs.
Following a whole-of-government assessment by the Department of Planning and Environment in October, the project was referred to the Commission due to objections from at least 50 individuals, triggering a comprehensive review process.
On December 15, 2023, the three-member Commission Panel, chaired by Dr Sheridan Coakes, granted development consent subject to conditions outlined in their detailed Statement of Reasons, available on the Commission’s website.
The Commission emphasised the site’s suitability for renewable energy development, considering factors like proximity to transmission networks, solar resources, and minimal environmental constraints, in response to concerns raised during the public consultation process.
Conditions of consent aim to address community concerns, including on-site vegetation screening, enhanced consultation with nearby landowners, and restrictions on heavy vehicle usage on specific roads.
Additionally, the conditions mandate the development of a traffic management plan, regular monitoring, and reporting, alongside a commitment from the Applicant for complete site rehabilitation at the project’s conclusion.
For more renewable and solar news, subscribe to ecogeneration.