The development application and environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Richmond Valley Solar Farm was submitted in June 2024 and placed on public exhibition from 24 July until 21 August 2024.

Thank you to everyone who attended the EIS information session in Ellangowan during the exhibition period, and who took the time to read the EIS documents and make a submission. ​

Several issues were raised in submissions including visual and noise impacts, biodiversity, bushfire risk and changing land use. Ark Energy has now completed its Submissions Report responding to the issues raised.

As a result of consultation, biodiversity considerations and design updates, several changes were made to the project to reduce impacts and improve constructability. Ark Energy has completed an Amendment Report outlining the changes, which include:

• Changes to the perimeter fence to align it better with existing farm fences.
• Updates to the size, model and number of inverters for the battery energy storage system (BESS).
• Updated location for the switching substation.
• Revised transport route for oversize vehicles.
• Updated solar panel design.
• Change to the size of the area for the connection point.
• Reduction in the development footprint from 803 ha to 789 ha.

Updated technical assessments have also been completed, including for noise, traffic, biodiversity, Aboriginal cultural heritage, hazards and bushfire impacts.

The Submissions Report, Amendment Report and updated technical assessments are now available from the project's page in the NSW Major Projects Portal.

Following submission of the Submissions and Amendment Reports, the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure will complete its assessment and make a determination. Final approval under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) will also be required from the Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy the Environment and Water.

Download the Richmond Valley Solar Newsletter June 2025