New solar farms proposed for farming zones at Cosgrove, Stanhope and Rushworth are generating opposition from neighbours who are challenging the choice of locations.
Northern Victoria has seen a steady growth in the number of solar developments capitalising on the region's hours of sunshine and proximity to major transmission lines.
But farmers and other residents have opposed some of them because of their location and impact on amenity.
Three of the most recent proposals are still in the planning stage prior to going to the Victorian Government for approval.
At Girgarre East, 136 ha of solar panels are being proposed on a farm described as the best cropping land in the district.
Gary and Jane Pekin’s homestead is just 120 m from the boundary line, where native bush might soon be cleared to create clear skies for pivoting panels.
The Pekins run a harness racing facility and are worried about the impacts of construction on livestock and their foaling paddock.
“One time a steel pole was installed along our property and a horse bolted into a fence so bad from the noise he had to be put down,” Mrs Pekin said.
At Cosgrove, a 5 megawatt solar installation is planned in the shadow of the Dookie hills.
More in Country News next week.
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