ALL SYSTEMS GO: WDRC Mayor Paul McVeigh has announced a 1000MW solar plant will be built near Wandoan.

ALL SYSTEMS GO: WDRC Mayor Paul McVeigh has announced a 1000MW solar plant will be built near Wandoan.

THE Western Downs will become home to one of the largest solar plants in the world after Council today announced plans for a landmark renewable energy project near Wandoan.

Council has approved the region's, and one of Australia's, largest solar projects to date with a 1000MW solar farm set to be constructed near Wandoan.

The Wandoan South Solar Project, run by Equis Energy is expected to generate up to 600 jobs across the three stages of development.

The project will cover 1,424 hectares of land chosen for its suitability and proximity to existing energy infrastructure and is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the Western Downs region, with an investment of up to $1.5 billion, including a significant percentage spent locally.

Proposed site for the Wandoan South Solar Project, a 1000MW, $1.5 billion solar farm on the Western Downs.

Located 21km south-west of the Wandoan township, Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said the project is further evidence of Council's commitment to renewable energy in the region.

"We are serious about cementing the Western Downs as the energy capital of Australia and securing the enormous economic and community benefits that will bring to our region,” he said.

"Equis has expressed their desire to be proactive in their consultation with neighbours of this project site, and that aligns with the business model we are promoting for renewable energy projects.

"The time-frame in which council has processed this application highlights the message we are open for business, and I think it is important to reiterate that although our approval process is rigorous, it is efficient.”