Construction has begun on the Fulham Solar Farm and battery project in Gippsland, which aims to provide cheaper, cleaner energy while creating local jobs and supporting supply chains.
The 80-megawatt (MW) solar farm, combined with a 64 MW/128 MWh battery, will generate enough electricity to power approximately 40,000 homes. The battery will store solar energy during low-demand periods and release it back to the grid during peak demand, helping to lower energy costs.
The project is backed by the Victorian Renewable Energy Target auction program (VRET2), designed to increase renewable energy capacity and reduce electricity bills for households.
Valued at over $300 million, the project is expected to support 156 jobs during construction and use 67% local goods and services. Once operational, 97% of the supplies and services will be sourced locally, enhancing regional economic growth.
Additionally, $3 million will be invested in community engagement and benefit-sharing initiatives over the 35-year life of the project to ensure lasting benefits for local towns hosting the facility.
Victoria’s investments in renewable energy have contributed to the lowest wholesale power prices in the country, and projects like Fulham Solar Farm will help maintain affordable energy costs into the future.
VRET projects have supported more than 1,700 jobs and attracted $2.48 billion in new renewable energy investments, powering public facilities with cost-effective renewable electricity.