Richmond Valley Solar Farm Newsletter - August 2023
New project owner
In May 2022 Ark Energy completed its friendly acquisition of Epuron, the original proponent for the project, and in October 2022 the Epuron name was retired. Richmond Valley Solar Farm is now owned by Ark Energy Projects.
Ark Energy is a leading renewable energy company specialising in the greenfield development and operation of wind, solar and green hydrogen. It is an Australian subsidiary of Korea Zinc, a leading global non-ferrous metals company, renewable energy and green hydrogen business, and the first major refiner to join RE100 and commit to powering its global operations from 100% clean energy by 2050.
Project update
In July 2022 Ark Energy initiated the assessment process for the project by submitting a Scoping Report to the NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPE). Based on the Scoping Report, in September 2022 the DPE issued Planning Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs). The SEARs outline the requirements for the project’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Ark Energy is now progressing the various assessment studies and technical reports required for Richmond Valley Solar Farm’s EIS.
Local information sessions
Interested local residents and community members are invited to attend public information sessions, to learn more about the proposal and discuss it with members of the project team. Two sessions will be held, one in Ellangowan and one in Casino. The information available at both sessions will be the same and will include a presentation followed by time for questions.
- Ellangowan: 4-6pm, Wednesday 6 September, Ellangowan Community Hall, 1630 Ellangowan Road, Ellangowan.
- Casino: 4-6pm, Thursday 7 September, Casino Community & Cultural Centre, 35 Walker Street, Casino.
Refreshments will be provided. To assist with catering please RSVP, noting your chosen session, to info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au by Monday 4 September. Everyone is welcome. The project team looks forward to meeting attendees and the opportunity to share more information about the proposal and answer questions.
Social Impact Assessment - survey
Ark Energy has contracted Umwelt Environmental Consultants to undertake an independent Social Impact Assessment (SIA) for Richmond Valley Solar Farm’s Environmental Impact Statement. Local community members are invited to participate in the SIA by completing the online survey here.