The Vales Point solar facility is expected to generate enough renewable energy to power 15,000 homes.
Media Release - 18th October 2019
The Project
The Vales Point Ash Dam (VPAD) consists of a series of operational and closed landfill cells bordered by Rutleys Road, the Pacific Highway and Wyee. The closed cells have been capped with soil and rehabilitated with native grasses.
Delta is proposing to establish a utility scale solar field on approximately 80 hectares of this rehabilitated land.
An initial solar capacity assessment has found that up to 55 MW of renewable energy could be generated.
The proposed solar project is expected to have a capital investment of approximately $75m, generate 100 construction jobs over 9 months and up to 5 full time ongoing positions.
Development Approval
The NSW Department of Planning and the Environment have granted approval for the project as a State Significant Development (SSD) under Part 4 of the Environment Planning and Assessment Act (1979).
The approval identifies that while there would be some environmental impacts as a consequence of the project such as temporary traffic inconvenience, noise and ecology impacts, they can be avoided or minimised wherever possible through design and mitigation measures. The beneficial effects of renewable energy generation on land unsuitable for other development is considered to outweigh the mostly temporary adverse impacts and risks associated with the project.
Delta will continue to work with key stakeholders to develop a project that meets community expectations and achieves a long term sustainable outcome for future electricity generation in the local area.
Delta is now completing the grid connection arrangements with Ausgrid and a final investment decision will be made towards the end of this year.
Delta will continue to work with key stakeholders to develop a project that meets community expectations and achieves a long term sustainable outcome for future electricity generation in the local area.
View the Vales Point Solar Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and development approval conditions here
For more information please view Delta's recent media release about the Vales Point Solar Project
or contact the Vales Point power Station on (02) 4352 6111.
