Construction
COLLINSVILLE SOLAR FARM
Construction
A peak construction workforce of around 120 was required to build the Collinsville Solar Farm. The construction crew included truck and crane operators; concrete pourers; road construction crews; mechanical and electrical engineers; site supervisors of operations, including safety and environmental officers; specialist and general electrical technicians; mechanical technical staff. These services were sourced locally where practicable.
Global diversified services company UGL was appointed to construct the project. The company shared RATCH’s commitment to promote local participation in the project. Job Offers/ Work Packages were advertised on the major projects ICN Gateway and on UGL’s website. Construction commenced in May 2017 and the project reached full commercial operations in May 2018.
Following construction there are two full time positions for at least 25 years. Up to 20 staff will be needed to undertake cleaning of the solar panels as required. Other maintenance activities likely to involve service providers in the region include electrical maintenance, site management and administration, environmental services, weed control and fire management.
COLLINSVILLE SOLAR FARM
Construction Timeline
October 2013
Development approval received from Whitsunday Regional Council
January 2017
Project receives $10 million in funding from ARENA
March 2017
Alinta signs agreement to purchase eletricity and LGCs
April 2017
Construction and O&M contracts signed with UGL
May 2017
Financial close and start of construction
April 2018
First generation from the project
May 2018
Full commercial operations begin