Frequently Asked Questions

When will the solar farm be operational?

Construction of the project is expected to commence in the first half of 2024, with the solar farm fully operational in 2025.

Who is developing the solar farm?

The Fulham Solar Project development is being led by Octopus Australia, after being acquired as a joint venture initiative between Octopus Investments Australia and the Clean Energy Finance Corporation.

Will there be employment opportunities for local people during construction and operation?

During construction the intention is to maximise the utilisation of local businesses and people. 

Approximately 90 people will be working on the project during the construction phase, with 10 jobs expected to be created during the operation of the solar farm.

Will local businesses be engaged in the construction and operations of the solar farm?

Local businesses will be utilised in the construction of the solar farm.  While some specialist technology will be sourced from outside of the region, we expect the bulk of the physical work to be completed by local businesses.

Can we purchase electricity from the solar farm?

The Fulham Solar Farm will be connected to the local distribution network, providing electricity to the local area. The project will not retail electricity directly to customers.

Will the project deliver cheaper electricity prices?

The establishment of renewable energy projects across the State is expected to create a more competitive energy market and slow the increase in energy costs.  Within Gippsland, Fulham Project will strengthen the local energy network, particularly in the east of the region, reducing vulnerability and risk of outages.

What impact will the project have on the flora and fauna on the site?

A detailed flora and fauna assessment has been undertaken as part of the planning process. The design will minimise the impact on native flora and fauna in line with recommendations from the flora and fauna assessment.

Will the construction of the solar farm cause traffic issues?

A detailed traffic impact assessment has been undertaken as part of the planning process and is available for public viewing.  A traffic management plan will be developed and approved by Wellington Shire and VicRoads prior to construction commencing.  While the impact expected is low, any significant changes to the current traffic flow will be communicated to the community.

Will the construction create noise issues for neighbouring properties?

The construction process will meet all obligations of the planning approval, such as hours of work.  The impact is expected to be minimal.  The project developers will provide regular and ongoing communication with neighbouring properties during the construction period.  

Will the solar farm be noisy? 

An acoustic assessment will be completed as part of the planning application and will ensure the solar farm and its associated infrastructure meets EPA guidelines.

Will the solar farm create a fire hazard?

A Bushfire Planning Assessment has been completed as part of the planning process and is available for public viewing. The Plan will be reviewed and approved by CFA, with any risk mitigation identified to be implemented. The project is not expected to create any increased risk of bushfire.

Will the solar panels create glare?

A glint and glare assessment has been completed as part of the planning process and is available for public viewing. The project is designed to minimise glint and glare, including through the provision of landscaping along the property boundaries.

Will the solar farm have any impact on the Fulham Correctional Centre?

The projects developers have commenced engagement with GEO Group, the operators of the Fulham Correctional Centre, and is ensuring that any specific requirements of the Correctional Centre (e.g. site security) are included in the design of the solar farm.

Will the solar farm negatively impact the productivity of the land?

AAn agricultural land value assessment has been completed as part of the planning process and is available for public viewing.  The solar farm is planned to co-exist with sheep grazing activities on the site when fully operational.

Will the project impact any areas of cultural significance?

A cultural heritage assessment has been completed as part of the planning process and is available for public viewing.  The project developers will continue to engage with the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation during the planning of the project.

Will the solar farm have a negative visual impact for neighbours and the local region?

The project has been designed to minimise the visual impact. Screening (vegetation) will be incorporated along the property boundary as part of the design.  The site design including planned landscaping is available for public viewing.

How long will the solar farm operate for?

The solar farm is expected to operate for a minimum of 35 years.

How will the site be remediated at the closure of the solar farm? 

The lease agreement with the landowner requires the land to be returned to its previous usage at the end of the project life.  The project owner will be required to remediate the land.