THE HON TANYA PLIBERSEK MP
MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND WATER

MEDIA RELEASE

​Friday, 20 October 2023

215,000 solar panels to power Queensland homes

The Albanese Labor Government has approved another solar farm that will power 40,000 Queensland homes.

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The project, to be built 22km south of Chinchilla, will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 230,000 tonnes each year - equivalent to taking 72,000 cars off the road each and every year.

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This is the third renewables project to be approved by the Government this month. We’re remaking our entire energy system after a decade of inaction – it’s a huge task.

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The federal Labor Government has shown just how bright Australia’s future can be when there’s less political fighting, and more action on climate change.

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Projects like this are great for the environment, but we also know every project like this helps boost local economies - including supporting up to 200 jobs.

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The project has been approved following assessment under Australia’s environment law, with strict conditions to protect koala habitat.

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Quotes attributable to Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek:

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“Australians know we need to act now and they’re doing their part – more than three million households now have solar panels on their roofs. But they expect the government to do its part too.

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“That’s why we’re boosting renewables and putting Australia back on track to become a renewable energy superpower.

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“We’re undoing a decade of political fights that stopped progress and cost the climate. It’s good for the environment, and good for local communities.”

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