Haughton stage 2

The project

Haughton Solar Farm is a large-scale solar photovoltaic power station located in north Queensland’s Burdekin Shire (40km west of Ayr and 60km south of Townsville). The first 100MW stage for the solar farm was completed in 2019. The second stage of development for the Haughton Solar Farm proposes to construct a further 300MW of generating capacity which once constructed increases the solar farm’s total energy output to power approximately 232,000 homes.

Additionally, the second stage of the development includes a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) that will improve the security of electricity supply as well as capture excess solar energy generated during the middle of the day and supply it back to the grid during high demand morning and evening periods.

The site was identified as an area highly suitable for efficiently capturing solar energy – the region has one of the highest levels of solar irradiance in Australia, receiving 2,095 KWh/m² per annum. The north-eastern corner of the development site directly adjoins the existing 275kV Powerlink transmission line, providing the opportunity to connect to the NEM.

Local benefits

Pacific Blue has a strong track record of delivering lasting social, environmental, and economic benefits to the local communities in which our projects are located. These include:

• A significant number of direct jobs during construction.
• Generating local economic activity during construction and operations.
• Opportunities for local businesses and suppliers.
• Support for community-led projects and initiatives.
• Up to 10 additional permanent jobs will be required to ensure the effective operation of the expanded solar farm, with further contractor opportunities also anticipated.

Business opportunities

Local suppliers and contractors may also be engaged for the construction and delivery of the project wherever possible, and are encouraged to register their interest and capabilities with us here.

These jobs will help diversify local skills and economic output for the region, complementing the agricultural industry and contributing to the prosperity of the local economy.

Community engagement

A key part of Pacific Blue’s successful delivery of projects is the way we engage and involve our neighbours, communities, and stakeholders throughout all stages.

Community engagement activities will commence as the project gains momentum in late 2023.

Community benefit sharing

Pacific Blue is proud to support communities that host our clean energy projects through our industry-leading Community Benefit Sharing Program, which delivers a portion of revenue back into our local communities each year.

The program aims to empower local communities to identify the projects and initiatives that we should support. A range of methods are used to achieve this aim (such as community funds and sponsorship), tailored to the specific needs of each area.

Since its launch, the program has delivered over $4.9 million to over 1000 community-led projects across regional Australia.