Riverina Solar Farm

A great project that deserves every citizens support

The EIS has omitted to provide a detailed assessment of the 'Lake Effect' of the solar farm and the subsequent direct and indirect impacts this may have.

The 'Lake Effect' is a phenomena whereby migratory terrestrial and water bird species are often killed as they make contact with the hard surface of solar panel. It appears, based on bird mortality counts overseas, that solar panels mounted close to the ground can pose a significant risk in that birds perceive a large solar farm as a body of water on which they attempt to land.

The probability of a 'Lake Effect' being an important issue for this project is reasonable given that the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area has numerous water bodies including irrigation channels along with food crops which represent a potential food source for birds.

The direct impact is bird mortality while the indirect impact is that the birds may also be attracted, because of the 'Lake Effect', to adjacent food crops.

In United States, the Fish and Wildlife Service has recommended that research be undertaken to modify or re-design solar panels so that birds don't perceive them as water bodies. This includes the installation of visual markers or other potential deterrents and changes to the spacing of solar panels.

A great project and a step in the right direction of solar farming within Australia.

I support this project as it will enhance Australia's capacity to generate solar energy. It will lead to a reduction in greenhouse emissions, it is low impact and there is suitable infrastructure in the locality. It should have a positive impact on the local community through the construction phase, and provide ongoing employment.

Good to see this happening.

See attached submission

as attached

as attached

as attached

as attached

Please see attached document.

Addendum submission attached

Addendum submission attached

as attached

Please see attached