The Nioka Solar Project is a proposed large-scale renewable energy development at Glenrowan West in North East Victoria. Based on publicly available information, the proposal is in the early planning stage and includes a solar farm with battery energy storage of up to 250 megawatts (MW). [oai_citation:0‡WEB PAGE.pdf](sediment://file_000000007c9c71fd80ec54d9263c3305)

As with any major infrastructure proposal, the project will progress through a planning and assessment process before any final decisions are made. During this time, technical investigations, environmental studies, community consultation and planning assessments are expected to help inform decision-makers. The details of the proposal may also change as planning progresses.

Why This Project Matters

The Nioka Solar Project is one of a number of proposed, approved, under construction and operating renewable energy projects within Benalla Rural City. Community members have raised questions not only about this individual proposal, but also about the combined effect of multiple large-scale energy developments across the region. [oai_citation:1‡WEB PAGE.pdf](sediment://file_000000007c9c71fd80ec54d9263c3305)

Those questions include how future planning decisions may affect productive farmland, regional communities, transport networks, landscape character, biodiversity and long-term land use.

Our Approach

The No Nioka Solar project has been created to provide factual information, planning updates and independent research relating to the proposed development. Our aim is to encourage informed discussion, promote transparent planning and support the long-term protection of productive farmland and strong regional communities. [oai_citation:2‡Our Projects.pdf](sediment://file_00000000f15871fd83c32cb2fd2a80e3)

We believe people make better decisions when they have access to accurate information. This website has been developed to bring together publicly available documents, planning information, community updates and educational resources in one place.

What You'll Find Here

  • Project updates as new information becomes available.
  • Planning documents and publicly available reports.
  • Explanations of the Victorian planning process.
  • Frequently asked questions about renewable energy projects.
  • Information about property rights, easements and community consultation.
  • Research into cumulative impacts and regional planning.

Looking Beyond One Project

While the Nioka Solar Project is an important focus for many local residents, it also forms part of a much broader discussion about the future of North East Victoria.

Renewable energy, agriculture, environmental protection and regional development all play an important role in our future. Good planning requires these interests to be carefully balanced through transparent processes, meaningful consultation and evidence-based decision-making.

Our Commitment

Fair Go for North East Country supports respectful community discussion and encourages people to review the available information, ask questions and participate in the planning process.

As new information becomes available, this page will continue to be updated so residents have access to a reliable and easy-to-understand source of information about the proposed Nioka Solar Project.