First Australian solar project switches on for European Energy

Mokoan Solar Park completed ahead of schedule, delivering clean energy and marking the first step in European Energy’s 9 GW pipeline in Australia

European Energy has officially inaugurated its first operational solar project in Australia, with the Mokoan Solar Park in Winton, Victoria, now entering final performance testing.

European Energy CEO, Knud Erik Andersen, joined the Mayor of Benalla Rural City Council, Bernie Hearn, to mark the occasion and inspect the site during grid compliance and commissioning works. The 58 MW solar farm is located in the Hume region of northern Victoria and can supply renewable electricity to more than 18,000 Australian households.

Construction of Mokoan Solar Park was completed ahead of schedule and under budget—less than one year after European Energy’s financial investment decision.

“Australia is a promising market for renewable energy, and the commissioning of our first solar farm here is a proud moment for our entire team,” says Catriona McLeod, Managing Director of European Energy Australia.

“Mokoan Solar Park will help deliver energy security for Victoria while cutting carbon emissions by more than 85,000 tonnes each year. This project also reflects our strong ambition to contribute to Australia’s energy transition with our 9 GW development pipeline.”

The project has already had a significant impact on the local economy. More than AUD 95 million has been invested in local, regional and Australian suppliers, with 150 local jobs created during construction. Eight ongoing operational roles will be maintained as the solar farm transitions into full commercial operations, expected by June 2025.

In addition, European Energy is investing more than AUD 400,000 in community initiatives to benefit local organisations, the Yorta Yorta people, and regional businesses.

“Bringing our first solar project online in Australia is a significant achievement for European Energy and a strong signal of our long-term commitment to the country,” says Knud Erik Andersen, CEO of European Energy.

“We are proud to support Victoria’s clean energy goals while working closely with local communities and Traditional Owners. Mokoan Solar Park is just the beginning of our journey in Australia, where we see great potential to deliver reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy at scale.”

Mokoan Solar Park was selected to participate in the Australian Government’s Capacity Investment Scheme, which encourages new renewable energy projects by providing a long-term revenue safety net to support investment certainty.

As part of its broader commitment to environmental stewardship, European Energy has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the conservation charity Odonata. The partnership will explore opportunities to enhance biodiversity at Mokoan and across other European Energy renewable energy sites in Australia.

About Mokoan Solar Park
Mokoan Solar Park is located on Lee Road and Nelson Road in Winton, in the Hume Region of Victoria. With a capacity of 58 MWdc, the solar park can generate enough electricity to power more than 18,000 households annually.

Construction is complete, and the site is currently undergoing grid compliance and performance testing. Full commercial operation is expected by June 2025.

European Energy acknowledges that Mokoan Solar Park is located on Yorta Yorta Country and is working toward a Memorandum of Understanding with the Yorta Yorta Nations Aboriginal Corporation to ensure First Nations people share in the benefits of the energy transition.

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Ming Ou Lü

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