North East Victoria is set to become a leader in solar energy production thanks to several local solar farm projects, and the Northern Victoria New Energy Technology Roundtable.
The roundtable, the second of its kind this year, aims to promote local new energy projects and connect local businesses and other renewable energy supply chain partners, and brought together around 250 renewable energy project operators, technology providers, financiers and investors, local industry, community groups and other relevant stakeholders to identify projects, and promote new energy opportunities, jobs and economic growth in the region.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio, said regional Victoria had an essential role to play in helping the state transition to a renewable future.
“Northern Victoria have been leaders in the development of new technology and renewable energy initiatives, and will play a significant role moving Victoria to new energy future,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“With a number of solar farm projects in development, there is growing excitement and interest in the region about being part of the new energy economy.”
The Numurkah Solar Farm, which was chosen as a recipient of the State Government’s solar tender in August 2018 is one of the projects being developed in the area. It is expected to generate 38MW of solar energy, and will help fuel not only Victoria’s electricity network, but also Melbourne’s tram network.
This solar boom will also benefit local businesses, with opportunities for commercial roof solar installation for hospitals and processing industries.
A number of local businesses also presented at the roundtable who have either successfully completed renewable energy projects, or are developing new renewable energy projects and seeking project partners such as investors, customers, and supply chain partners.
Waste-to-energy projects and opportunities available in collaboration with local agricultural and food processing industries are also being explored.
