The beginning of construction at two clean energy projects in Gippsland has been welcomed by environmental justice group Friends of the Earth who say it will create local jobs and new training opportunities while powering thousands of homes with renewable energy.
Once complete, the Fulham Solar Farm and battery in Gippsland will generate enough electricity to power 40,000 homes, with an additional $3 million invested in benefit sharing to make sure local towns get additional benefits for hosting the project over its 35 year lifespan.
This came alongside an announcement that construction has begun on the Clean Energy Centre at Morwell TAFE that will give more people in Gippsland and Victoria the skills they need to join the rapidly growing renewable energy workforce.
These initiatives by the Victorian Allan Government are paving the pathway forward for a future of clean renewable power and jobs in the region.
"The commencement of two renewable energy projects in Gippsland is creating hundreds of new job opportunities in the region. This is great news as it will boost the local economy and provide employment for the people in the area." said Wendy Farmer, President of Voices of the Valley and Gippsland organiser with Friends of the Earth.
"The Victorian government has listened to community input on where the gaps in skills and training are and has delivered on training in renewable energy, including Electric Vehicles and offshore wind, that are seen as pivotal opportunities for the region"
"The establishment of jobs and skills focused projects, such as the Morwell Clean Energy Centre, are central to addressing the need for training and skill development in renewable energy in our area. These programs will help provide the knowledge and expertise required to upskill our local workers to succeed in future careers in renewable energy." said Farmer.
