Scout Wallen
Community engagement has commenced in regards to the Byron Shire Council’s plan to implement a solar farm in Myocum.
The proposed council-owned site, 1 Dingo Lane, is situated adjacent the Resource and Recovery Centre in Myocum.
The Dingo Lane Solar Farm project manager, Andrew Swan, affirmed that council is assessing the risks and potential impacts on the community.
‘We’re currently conducting glare and flooding assessments of the proposed site and will share the findings of these reports with the community once received in the new year,’ said Mr Swan.
‘It’s important to know of any potential impacts on the community so that Council can look at mitigation options and assess the overall risk versus the community benefit this solar farm project would bring.’
An on-site information session was held for local residents and neighbouring properties on Tuesday 26 November.
According to Mr Swan, concerns were raised about the potential glare and visual impacts of the solar panels, possibility of dual use of the site, dust and traffic issues from the existing unsealed road, funding and payback, alternative sustainable initiatives, flooding impacts and Council’s infrastructure priorities.
A door knocking campaign and letterbox drop has been completed in the Myocum area to residents directly adjacent or overlooking the proposed site.
Once constructed, the 5MW solar farm will generate enough electricity to offset Council’s power usage and send additional renewable power back into the grid.
This potential project will help Council achieve its goal of net zero emissions by 2025, with 100% renewable energy for its operations by 2027.
Council is continuing local stakeholder engagement which will include providing additional information to local residents and neighbouring properties in January, as well as to the public through the project page.
Feedback and questions can also be submitted by email to [email protected] or in writing to PO Box 219 Mullumbimby, NSW 2482, with attention to the Project Manager, Andrew Swan.
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