Large-scale solar projects in QLD

With an annual average of 8-9 hours of sunshine per day Queensland has very strong solar resources. Combined with high quality and nationally competitive wind resources, we have seen a large number of approvals for renewable energy projects over the recent years, with many of these now completed or under construction. Currently, 20GW of large-scale solar projects are reportedly waiting for development with many more in the planning or approval phase.

Topo is excited to have been involved in a number of these projects, undertaking flood modelling and inundation mapping to identify site constraints and help maximise the number of solar arrays that can be installed on sites, whilst maintaining or improving local flow regimes. 

It will be interesting to see the impact, if any, the Queensland Solar Farm Guidelines has on the industry. The intention of these guidelines is to help industry achieve positive outcomes as the large-scale solar sector develops.

In addition to this, a new code of practice and electrical safety regulations was recently put in place, claiming to enhance safety in the commercial solar farm industry. The new regulations mean only licensed electricians can mount, locate, fix or remove solar panels on solar farms with a total rated capacity of at least 100kW. Opponents say the guidelines will increase the cost of construction for these projects and force developers to look elsewhere for suitable solar farm sites. Whilst outside of Topo’s areas of expertise, we hope this does not impact Queensland’s reported 50 % renewable energy target by 2030.