FAQ
Why is this project important?
Solar is a passive form of technology, generating electricity without creating any waste products or pollution during operation. This makes it an ideal energy source for South Australia where the State government has committed to securing 50% of its total energy needs from renewables by 2025. This project will make an important contribution to achieving this target while substantially reducing carbon emissions and diversifying our energy mix.
Can agricultural activity continue on the site?
Solar farms are generally compatible with agricultural activities, allowing for dual land uses to provide landowners with an additional income source. This solar farm has been designed to allow for grazing activities to continue on the land during its operation.
Can mining activity continue on the site?
The project site is subject to three mining exploration licenses and Golden Invest is currently negotiating an agreement with license holders to enable co-existence of renewable energy and mining activities over the course of the project.
How will the solar farm appear?
The solar farm will be enclosed by a 2 metre high security mesh fence which will incorporate a number of small openings to allow for the movement of wildlife. Some landscaping of the site along the frontages of Bower Road, Emmaus Road and Junction Road will also be provided to improve the appearance of the development. Given the relative isolation of the site, it is highly unlikely to cause any adverse visual impact.
How are the panels kept clean?
Rainfall generally helps to keep the panels free of dust and dirt. The panels will be thoroughly cleaned as a regular maintenance activity using specialised equipment and water brought to the site on trucks to ensure the solar farm operates efficiently.
Will the solar farm cause traffic disruption?
Once operational, the solar farm will require occasional maintenance by contractors who will access the site on a weekly/monthly basis. While the construction phase will see an increase in workers’ vehicles accessing the site and heavy vehicles delivering materials to the site, it will not cause any disruption to the local road network. A traffic management plan will be put in place during construction to direct all traffic to one of two approved access routes: Worlds End Highway-Emmaus Road and Worlds End Highway-Schulz Road. These routes are supported by both the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure and Regional Council of Goyder.
What happens if there is a fire?
We will be undertaking consultation with the Country Fire Service (CFS) and will prepare a bushfire management plan for construction and operational activities associated with the solar farm. We will work closely with the CFS to ensure an appropriate response plan and worker training is in place to safely address any fire threat.