If approved, the proposed 600 megawatt (MW) Parkesbourne solar and storage project could possibly be the largest of its type in Australia. 

The area under investigation comprises about 2000 hectares of cleared, flat land east of Breadalbane that is separated by the Hume Highway.

It is on freehold land about 15 kilometres south-west of Goulburn.

It would comprise solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, steel racking and piled supports, electrical transformers and inverters, battery storage, electrical cabling, telecommunications equipment, security fencing, a site office, maintenance building and car park facilities.

According to a Preliminary Environmental Assessment lodged with NSW Planning and Environment on August 15, the capital investment listed for the project is $600 million and it is proposed to create 300 jobs during construction and 25 ongoing operational positions.

The project’s development manager Matthew Flower said if it goes ahead, it could be among the largest solar farms in Australia. 

“We are looking at producing up to 600MW power with this and right now there are no other 600MW solar farms in Australia," Mr Flower said.

“The largest at the moment would be about 150MW.

“That is not to say it will be the largest by the time of possible approval because this area is expanding so rapidly, but it is certainly a major project.

“The attraction of the area is proximity to the electricity grid and relatively flat land.”

He said while wind resource could vary from place to place, the amount of sunshine had more to do with latitude.

“Wind can vary a lot, but not sun,” Mr Flower said.

“It would not matter if it was further west, because of the angle of the sun. Latitude is the main thing.

“Our application comes off the back of early engagement with potential hosts, neighbouring landowners and the wider community.

“These discussions have shaped the project, which will continue as we work through the permitting process,” Mr Flower said. 

An Environmental Impact Statement will be on public exhibition before year’s end.