“By investing in SolarShare, Canberra residents will gain stronger connections to local renewable energy projects and their community.”
“SolarShare already has strong local support with more than $2 million pledged by over 360 community supporters, and there’s still room for more expressions of interest from ACT residents.
“Each year the solar farm’s 5,500 solar panels will prevent approximately 1,600 tonnes of CO2 emissions, equivalent to taking around 330 cars off the road. They will also produce enough energy to power up to 250 homes.
“SolarShare provides ACT residents with the opportunity to co-own a large-scale solar electricity farm that will contribute to Canberra’s clean energy future while creating a financial return for local investors,” Lawrence said.The 3.5 hectare site sits on undeveloped land owned by the Mount Majura Vineyard and will be shared with a commercial solar project already under development. Frank van de Loo of Mount Majura Vineyard thinks that solar projects are consistent with the vineyard’s sustainable grape growing philosophy.
“Combined with landscaping, solar farms provide a productive use for land not currently used for grape growing,” Frank said.SolarShare also has strong support from local environmental and community groups. Sherry McArdle-English, President of the Majura Valley Landcare Group sees the solar farm integrating well with the Group’s vision for the area.
“We see a positive relationship between landowners, local produce, sustainable agriculture, eco-tourism and new innovative models of solar energy ownership.” “Majura Valley can exemplify the bush capital feel of Canberra while at the same time supporting light industry in a less visible location,” Sherry said.SolarShare understands the results of the ACT Government application process may be determined around August this year. SolarShare welcomes feedback on the proposal from local residents, community groups, businesses and other interested stakeholders via feedback@solarshare.com.au Feasibility studies and technical documentation are available at http://67.227.186.28/~solarshare/ To register interest in SolarShare’s current and future projects visit http://67.227.186.28/~solarshare/join/
Image caption: Artist’s impression of the 5500 solar panel SolarShare farm in Majura Valley, North Canberra. Australia’s largest community-owned solar farm will sit on unused winery land, integrating with the bush capital feel of Majura Valley. 
Image caption: SolarShare Canberra is encouraging residents to get behind its proposal to the ACT Government for a one-megawatt solar farm in the Majura Valley.