Dunmore Solar Farm receives swift environmental approval

The Albanese Government has approved a new solar farm near Toowoomba, in the electorate of LNP MP Garth Hamilton, that won’t require new transmission lines or substantial land clearing.  

The 300 megawatt (MW) Dunmore Solar Farm and 150MW battery energy storage system (BESS) was approved in just 19 days and will be located on previously cleared land.  

Once complete, the project will generate enough energy to power more than 140,000 homes, with the BESS able to power those homes for a further two hours at peak demand when the sun isn’t shining.  

Located next to an existing transmission line, the project will not require any new transmission lines to be installed.  

The project will potentially reduce emissions by up to 740,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per annum, equivalent to taking 275,000 cars off the road.  

The Minister for Environment and Water, Murray Watt, said that the Dunmore Solar Farm was an example for industry to follow.  

“This approval shows how good site selection unlocks rapid approvals for critical renewable projects like this.  

“Not only will this project power Australia’s renewable transition by delivering cheap, green and clean power, but it will also unlock 350 jobs in regional Queensland during construction.  

“By selecting a good site near existing transmission lines, the proponent helped this project speed through the approvals process, unlocking our green future.

"While the Coalition continue to debate whether climate change is real, their own communities are getting on with the transition to cheaper, cleaner energy.

“Since 2022, the Albanese Government has given the green light to more than 100 renewable energy projects – enough to power every home in Australia.”