The future of the Moree Solar Farm is looking bright after Pacific Hydro confirmed it is keen to push ahead with the program.
After failing to reach financial close, the government re-opened the tender process.
The Moree Solar Farm consortium initially included Pacific Hydro, Fotowatio Renewable Ventures and BP Solar. BP Solar has since opted out of the venture.
Moree Plains Shire Mayor Katrina Humphries is hopeful that funding for the project will be considered by the Federal Government in the coming weeks. “They are still looking very committed to it.”
She expressed her disappointment over the project having to be re-bid to the government but said she remained confident the project would be secured.
Pacific Hydro’s general manager, Lane Crockett said the company was talking to the government about the potential for the Moree development to receive funding under the ARENA program, which began operation on July 1. With the government opting to support the project the solar farm will likely end up between a third or two thirds of its original size.
“This project offers something beyond what AGL is offering,” Mr Crockett said. “It’s a different technology. It’s tract technology, so the panels move and they follow the sun around. “So there’s a lot of information and benefits for the industry that would come out of making the project work. Plus, the Moree community has been so supportive of this project so we’d really like to develop it for them as well.”
According to Mr Crockett the Moree Solar Farm’s team will continue to meet with local community members, organisations and stakeholders to further develop initial plans, incorporating community issues and concerns.