Cimic Group subsidiary Pacific Partnerships has announced the start of work on a 130MW solar farm in the north of Victoria State.

Another Cimic subsidiary, UGL, will build, operate and maintain the 245ha Glenrowan Solar Farm, which is expected to generate enough energy to power 45,000 homes.

The project fits with the Victorian government’s aim of generating half of its energy from renewable sources by 2050.

Juan Santamaria, Cimic Group’s executive chairman, said: “We are committed to supporting the clean energy transition and to working with the State of Victoria to supply green energy and certificates to match electricity used by Victorian hospitals and schools, Melbourne’s entire train network and a range of other Victorian government infrastructure and services.”

Simon Nicholls, Pacific Partnerships’ managing director, added: “The power purchase agreement for Glenrowan Solar Farm unlocks local benefits for jobs, business and community initiatives.

“As part of our community engagement and social benefit sharing plan, we are establishing a community reference group to develop opportunities with local residents, businesses and community groups.”

UGL is presently occupied with preliminary works; energy generation is due to begin before 2024.