Queensland’s Tumuruu Solar Project Enters Environmental Assessment

A significant new renewable energy project in Queensland has taken a major step forward, with the proposed Tumuruu solar and battery project officially entering the federal environmental assessment process. This development marks a critical milestone for a project poised to deliver substantial clean energy to the state’s grid.

The project, located near Taromeo in Queensland’s South Burnett region, has been submitted for review under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act. The proposal outlines a powerful combination of a 400-megawatt (MW) solar PV array coupled with a massive battery energy storage system (BESS) capable of storing up to 2 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of energy.

An Innovative, Low-Impact Approach for the Tumuruu Solar Project Queensland

What sets the Tumuruu project apart is its commitment to an “ultra-light touch” on the environment. The development is planned for privately owned freehold land that has already been cleared and is currently used for long-term cattle grazing. The developer, Australian Solar Enterprises (ASE), has leased the site for 30 years with an option for a further 20-year extension.

According to a report from RenewEconomy, a key feature of the project is its innovative design that avoids traditional construction methods. Instead of concrete footings, the solar panels will be mounted on a lightweight, concrete-free PEG system. This design choice brings several significant benefits:

• Minimized Ecological Disruption: The absence of concrete reduces the project’s physical footprint and impact on the land.
• Streamlined Logistics: The lightweight system eliminates the need for heavy B-double trucks for delivery.
• Reduced Construction Time: This approach is expected to cut supply, logistics, and installation time by as much as 40% compared to conventional solar farm construction.

This focus on minimizing environmental and logistical impact demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to renewable energy development.

Strategic Location and Project Status of the Tumuruu Solar Project Queensland

The project’s location is highly strategic. The site is intersected by existing 275 kV transmission lines that are crucial for supplying power to Brisbane and the wider southeast Queensland region. Furthermore, it is situated approximately 18 km east of the Meandu coal mine and the Tarong and Tarong North coal-fired power stations, positioning it to play a key role in the region’s energy transition.

With the project now in the EPBC assessment queue, ASE is moving forward with other critical preparations. The company is reportedly scoping contracts for equipment, civil engineering, installation, and the necessary high-voltage connections. Securing the remaining permits is the final hurdle before construction can commence.

The entry of the Tumuruu solar and battery project into federal assessment signals growing momentum for large-scale renewable energy in Queensland. Its innovative, low-impact design and strategic location make it a project to watch as it progresses towards powering the state with clean energy.