European Energy Australia’s Lancaster Solar Farm is operating.
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Lancaster Solar Farm has officially entered its operational phase, marking a significant milestone for the collaborative efforts that brought the project to life.
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The focus now shifts from construction to final testing and site maintenance, with eight on-site jobs created to operate the farm through panel cleaning, equipment servicing and vegetation management.
European Energy Australia community liaison manager Charlene Donovan will oversee a community benefits fund that has already supported the Lancaster Football Netball Club by providing new goal nets.
European Energy Australia head of stakeholder relations Kerrie Jocumsen said grants and sponsorships would be provided throughout the project’s three-decade lifespan.
Following the project’s recent launch, European Energy and the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation signed a memorandum of understanding, formally acknowledging the collaboration between the two parties.
The partnership focuses on cultural and environmental protection, employment, business opportunities and benefit sharing that aligns with the priorities of the Yorta Yorta people.
The 108MW project will produce energy for 20,000 homes annually and supply electricity to tech giant Apple, under a long-term power purchase agreement.
Looking ahead, Ms Jocumsen said the company planned to lease sections of the land to farmers for sheep grazing.
Lancaster Solar Farm comprises about 170,000 solar panels.
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Ms Jocumsen said European Energy Australia intended to be a good neighbour.
“We’re part of the community, (and) we’re embedding ourselves there,” she said.
The project is European Energy’s second project in Australia to reach operations.
Options for refurbishment or decommissioning at the project’s end will be decided closer to the 30-year mark.
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