A solar farm is a large-scale installation of solar panels designed to generate electricity from sunlight. Solar projects can range from a few acres to hundreds of acres in size.

The solar farm is expected to operate for approximately 30 years, at which point the Project may either repower, with agreement from associated landholders and following requisite assessments, or be decommissioned.

When it comes time to decommission, the Project Area would be returned to its pre-works state as far as possible. The Project will not have any long-term effect on agricultural productivity or land use options.

CQP will prepare a Decommissioning Plan for the Project that specifies how decommissioning will be undertaken after the operational life of the Project is complete.

This Decommissioning Plan will seek to return the land to its pre-work state and will seek to maximise opportunities to recycle and re-purpose infrastructure and materials associated with the Project to the greatest extent possible.

Main factors include:

• the areas high solar irradiance

• topography of the land

• limited vegetation and impact to biodiversity

• proximity to the transmission network

• availability to connect more energy capacity in this part of the network.

The solar infrastructure associated with solar projects are largely constructed of glass, silicon, steel and aluminium and will have very low flammability.

Equipment at solar sites are fitted with lightning protection and surrounded by a fenced, gravelled compound.

Prior to construction, a Bushfire Management Plan and Fire Management Plan is prepared to inform the Project’s design and manage fire risks during the construction and operational period.

This documentation will be prepared in consultation with relevant authorities including Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) and rural fire services.

All relevant legislative requirements and management measures will be implemented to minimise any fire risk associated with solar projects.

While solar panels themselves are not combustible, the materials used in their construction, such as plastic components and wiring, can contribute to fire risk if ignited. The layout and design of solar farms, and the presence of vegetation and surrounding land management practices, can influence the potential for bushfire spread and intensity.

The project is designed to be compliant with legislated noise requirements, which is validated by acoustic engineers. The design includes setbacks, vegetation screening and situates the project’s substation in the centre of the project site.

Solar farms do not create significant noise during operation.

Monitoring of dust levels during construction is a basic requirement of each project. Dust generating activities are assessed during windy conditions and are stopped and rescheduled where adequate control of dust generation cannot be achieved.

Agricultural land uses including sheep grazing often continue at solar project sites, and CQP is work closely with landowners to understand what opportunities could coexist with solar projects.

Solar farms will not affect farming operations on neighbouring properties do not have any long-term effect on the agricultural potential or land use of the site, beyond the life of the solar farm

Large-scale solar installations may require clearing land, which can disrupt local ecosystems and wildlife habitats. However, proper siting and design of infrastructure can mitigate these impacts.

Solar farms can alter local biodiversity by changing the physical landscape and affecting species' habitats. Implementing habitat restoration measures and using native plant species can help support local wildlife.

In certain cases, the installation and maintenance of solar panels can lead to soil compaction or erosion. Proper soil management practices can help mitigate these risks.

Some studies suggest that solar farms can pose risks to birds and insects, such as collisions with panels or habitat loss. However, innovative designs and proper siting of infrastructure, can minimise these risks.

The development and operation of solar farms attract significant investment, both domestically and internationally. According to the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), investment in large-scale solar projects reached over $20 billion between 2017 and 2020.

Solar farms often stimulate economic growth in regional areas where they are located. These projects provide opportunities for local businesses, suppliers, and service providers, leading to increased economic activity and infrastructure development in rural communities.

Solar farms contribute to Australia’s energy security by diversifying the energy mix and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This diversification helps mitigate the risks associated with fluctuations in fuel prices and supply disruptions, enhancing the country’s energy independence.

According to the Clean Energy Council, the Australian solar industry employed over 19,000 people in 2020, and this number is expected to grow significantly as more solar farms are developed. Solar farms create jobs across various sectors including construction, engineering, maintenance, and operations.

The solar farm is expected to operate for over 30 years. After decommissioning, the above-ground infrastructure will be removed as well as any infrastructure within 500mm of ground level.

The site would be returned to their pre-works state. It is not anticipated that the project would have any long-term effects on agricultural productivity or land use options.