European Energy, a renewable energy company from Denmark, has broken ground on its new 106 MW Lancaster Solar Park in Victoria.
The news follows Monday’s inauguration of the company’s first Australian solar park, which is also in the state of Victoria, and is the next step in its 9 GW Australian development pipeline.
European Energy reports that the solar park will be capable of delivering 223 GWh per annum – which is equal to the electricity consumption of around 35,000 Australian households.
“This solar park will contribute to Victoria’s energy security and reflects our long-term commitment to Australia’s clean energy future,” says Knud Erik Andersen, CEO of European Energy.
Supporting Indigenous communities
The Lancaster Solar Park is located 9km east of the Victorian town of Kyabram which, like European Energy’s first project, is on land traditionally owned by the Yorta Yorta people.
In recognition of the Yorta Yorta peoples’ ownership of the land, Andersen was welcomed onto the project’s construction site with a traditional Aboriginal smoking ceremony.
“Getting construction underway at Lancaster is an exciting moment for European Energy and the local community,” comments Catriona McLeod, Managing Director of European Energy Australia.
The company has partnered with the Indigenous Civil Group (ICG), an Indigenous-founded organisation, to deliver services, site facilities, and amenities to the solar park.
Additionally, an MoU has been signed with conservation charity Odonata to invest in nature-positive activities at Winton Wetlands in Victoria and at other renewable sites.
McLeod concludes: “We’re proud to be investing in northern Victoria, creating 80 jobs during construction and 12 ongoing roles once operational, and working closely with local and First Nations partners to ensure the benefits are shared widely.”
[Image credit: European Energy]
Based in Queensland? Don’t miss your free ticket to the Australian edition of Solar & Storage Live – currently taking place at Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre.
