Sapphire Solar Farm

Identification and site selection is based on an analysis of opportunities and constraints including (but not limited to): distance to the electricity grid, solar resource and land characteristics. Our team then carries out site visits and consultation with landowners in the area.

Site-specific investigations assess the impacts and opportunities of the project and feedback is sought from the local community.

Development application documentation is prepared which involves a wide range of studies to address stakeholder feedback received to date and to consider the potential environmental and social impacts of the project. Depending on the jurisdiction, this may include a public exhibition and submissions process.

The project documents are assessed by the relevant government authorities. If determined, development approval is granted alongside a range of conditions specific to the project.

A lead contractor(s) to build the project is appointed and all pre-construction approvals and consents are finalised. During this phase, the lead contractor(s) is provided with a list of local businesses that have registered their interest and capabilities through the project website.

During this phase our lead contractor(s) seek tenders and engage contractors and suppliers to undertake the scope of the works. Orders are then placed for major components such as the solar panels, mounting system and inverters.

Initial site activities start, such as minor clearing and provision of access roads along with establishing a site construction compound. Off-site detailed design works starts in parallel.

During this phase of the construction the bulk of the civil works takes place. This includes the construction of new internal access roads, excavation and earthworks (if necessary), installation of the internal electrical reticulation system, construction of the high voltage substation and main transmission line network.

This is where the visual aspect of the solar farm starts to appear, with pile driving machines installing the piers and mounting bars onto which the solar panels are then fixed.

In order to export power to the grid, each string of panels and inverters is required to undergo several performance tests.

The project operates in accordance with relevant approval conditions and management plans. Compliance with conditions of approval and management plans is monitored as required throughout the life of the project.

The design life of the solar panels is at least 30 years. At the end of their useful life, the solar and electrical equipment will be either replaced and the solar farm repowered, or the project will be decommissioned, and the site returned to its original use at the expense of the project.