The first community Queensland solar farm, courtesy of the Wide Bay Water Corporation began operations last week in a move to generate power and reduce operating costs for locals.
Wide Bay Water Corporation acting CEO Garry Storch said the $2.7 million dollar Fraser Coast Community Solar Farm, located on the corner of Hebblewhite and Booral Roads, had been funded entirely by the former state government.
“Ratepayers have not had to pay for the projects set-up or maintenance costs but all will benefit,” Mr Storch said.
“Local residents are encouraged to visit the farm and observe the farms technologies at the 5 x 1kW demonstration area, many of which can be applied to homes and businesses.”
The 1630-panel facility has been completed with the help of Ergon Energy and commissioned by Power One, a Singapore-based inverter manufacturer.
The farm has been built by Brisbane-based company Ingenero and will generate approximately 630 megawatt hours of energy a year, enough to power 100 homes.
Ingenero/EcoWatt will soon launch a web interface site so locals can monitor the farms energy generation.
“The website also allows residents to ensure panels are working optimally towards reducing our carbon footprint,” said Mr Storch.
The location of the Fraser Coast Community Solar Farm has also attracted criticism.
“The site was used by the WBWC because it was poor quality land which could not be used for plantation development,” Mr Storch said.
