Overview
The Dubbo Solar Hub is a renewable electricity project that consists of two separate solar farm sites at South Keswick & Narromine.
The 28 MW Dubbo Solar Hub is one of the first projects completed by Neoen in Australia.
Watch this ABC Landline interview to hear our host landowner, Tom Warren, share his experience of grazing sheep on the Dubbo Solar Hub.
Click map to enlarge
Location
The Dubbo Solar Hub is located across two sites.
The first site is located at South Keswick, east of Dubbo.
The second site is just north of Narromine.
Sheep grazing and solar farming can co-exist…in fact, they complement each other.
I have seen a 15% improvement in the carrying capacity and quality of wool (revenue) of my merino sheep grazing at Neoen’s solar farm compared to the results from sheep that was grazing land next to a solar farm and in normal conditions. This improvement is due to lower dust and vegetation matter. Access to shelter from and the microclimatic condition under the solar panels is also good for the sheep.
It’s an opportunity and a win-win for farmers and renewable energy producers. Farmers get solar income which is drought, season, and market proof as well as income from the sheep, while the solar farm operators benefit from vegetation control by the sheep.
Tom Warren, Farmer & Host Landowner
Dubbo Solar Hub, NSW
Project Lifecycle
1
Site Selection
We undertake research & early negotiations with landowners for options to lease or purchase sites that show potential for hosting renewable energy assets.
2
Feasibility
We create preliminary designs & initiate feasibility studies to identify site constraints. We commence early engagement with Traditional Owners, neighbours, local council and the community. We hold community information sessions locally.
3
Planning & Approvals
Extensive studies & surveys are undertaken to create detailed project design before submitting a Development Application (DA) to the NSW Government. Ongoing community and governmental consultations help refine project plans. We initiate grid connection enquiries.
4
Pre-Construction
If the DA is approved, we conduct a procurement process to appoint a construction contractor. Grid connection agreements & energy contracts get finalised, and our focus shifts to securing financing from lenders. A networking session is held for local jobseekers, suppliers & businesses to discuss upcoming opportunities.
5
Construction
The site mobilises, local suppliers & jobseekers are appointed, and civil, mechanical & electrical works commence. The project becomes a reality as the construction team builds and commissions the asset.
6
Operations
We maintain the asset for at least 25 years to ensure strong energy generation & revenue optimisation. Our community benefit-sharing program begins contributing to local initiatives.
- We Are Here
7
Decommissioning or Site Renewal
We decide on whether to continue operations or decommission the site. New construction works or site rehabilitation is undertaken.
News
With a balanced portfolio of wind, solar and big battery projects, we are Australia’s largest 100% renewables company.
We own and operate many of our projects for the long-term and are committed to sharing the benefits with surrounding communities as a responsible neighbour. Our dedication to the community and environment has made us a ‘developer of choice’ and a pioneer in the industry.
Since 2012, we have contributed over 4.5 GW of renewable energy & storage assets and invested over $7 billion towards Australia’s energy transition.