Please find my submission attached.

Without a cumulative impact assessment prepared by the NSW State Government that covers cumulative environmental, social, economic impacts., impacts on agriculture, farming, water supply, services, waste management, and PFAS/BPA contamination etc, the Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone and all projects including this one should not proceed.
This project does not meet the heads of consideration under the EP&A Act

Merino Solar and BESS plan means Permanent Loss of High-Value Agricultural Land

A huge area of productive RU1 land would be irreversibly removed from primary production forever as the land will be poisoned by Toxic Solar and leaking BESS infrastructure.

Soil compaction, trenching and concrete footings also alter soil profiles as well as galvanised posts contaminating the area.

The Paris Agreement requires emissions reductions in a manner that does not threaten food production.
This project directly defies this as it reduces local agricultural capacity forever.

Dear Sir/Madam,
For the region, the Merino Project represents a major economic and social opportunity with the potential to generate more than 500 direct and indirect jobs across construction, operations, local contracting, services, logistics, and supply chains. This supports livelihoods and strengthens the local employment ecosystem. Its substantial capital investment will trigger significant benefits: boost demand for local goods and services, stimulate small businesses, and enhance long‑term regional development through multiplier effects. The project is promoted by a globally respected owner of renewable energy assets. They possess a proven track record of delivering sustainable, high‑quality infrastructure around the world, and takes pride in developing projects that respect local communities, flora, and fauna. With strong emphasis on environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and clean‑energy advancement, the Merino Project stands as a responsible, future‑focused development that will meaningfully contribute to local prosperity and long‑term sustainability.

The site—located at the end of the Goulburn Airport runway—has been selected to avoid conflicts with aviation operations and future town expansion.
In response to community feedback, 8 hectares of panels were removed to avoid direct neighbour impacts, and local households are being offered a benefit sharing program.
The project represents a $1 billion investment, supporting 500+ construction jobs and 10–12 permanent roles in the region.
Existing sheep farming will continue under the solar arrays, benefiting from improved shade, animal welfare, and wool quality.
Funding is secured to restore the land at end of life, aligning with NSW’s expectations for State Significant Developments.
The project will contribute $382,500 per year (plus CPI) to local community initiatives over its 35 year operational life.

I fully support this project and believe it will benefit the Goulburn community as a whole . And will generate clean energy which is sustainable moving forward in the future for the whole of NSW .

I am writing to provide conditional support for the project. please see attached document.
Thank you