Victoria Plans $370 Million Renewable Energy Project

Victoria's State Electricity Commission (SEC) has announced a $370 million investment to establish the SEC Renewable Energy Park in Horsham, which will include a 119MW solar farm and a 100MW battery storage system. This project is notable as it represents the first fully government-owned energy generation initiative since the privatization of the SEC in the 1990s. Once operational by 2027, the facility is expected to generate approximately 242,000MWh of renewable energy annually, enough to power 51,000 homes, and aims to reduce electricity prices for consumers. Additionally, profits from the project will be reinvested into further renewable energy projects, supporting the Victorian government's broader goal of achieving 4.5 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity. Community engagement is also a priority, with funds allocated to support local initiatives during and after construction. The project is part of a larger $1 billion investment strategy to enhance Victoria's renewable energy landscape.