Question 1

What is being proposed?

Accepted Answer

Future X Tech, an Australian renewable energy developer is proposing to develop and operate a solar farm and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Lilydale, QLD.

The project will generate 24 MW of solar energy and deliver 90MWh of battery storage, supporting a more reliable and affordable electricity supply across Queensland, while creating local jobs and contributing to long‑term investment in the region.

Question 2

Who is Future X Tech?

Accepted Answer

Future X Tech is a specialised Australian energy retailer, energy service provider and embedded network management company, specialising in renewable energy. Future X Tech intends to develop and operate the project for the entirety of the project’s lifecycle.

Question 3

Is there a risk the project could be approved and then sold?

Accepted Answer

Future X Tech intends to develop and operate the project, there are no intentions to sell off the project.

Question 4

How much will the project contribute to the grid?

Accepted Answer

The Koolkuna Hybrid project will contribute a total generation and storage capacity to the National Electricity Market (NEM) grid consisting of: 
24 MW (Megawatts) of clean solar generation capacity 90 MWh (Megawatt-hours) of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) capacity.  
This hybrid configuration will supply renewable solar power during daily peak periods while utilising its integrated 90 MWh BESS capacity to store excess energy and dispatch it back into the grid during high-demand or low-generation intervals, supporting local grid reliability in Southeast Queensland.

Question 5

Grid Benefits: High-Value Network Services

Accepted Answer

By combining a 24 MW solar farm with a 90 MWh battery system, the Koolkuna project does more than generate bulk electricity. It also operates as an automated grid stabiliser through:  
Reduced risk of power outages: The battery system responds within milliseconds to stabilize network frequency if a major power station fails. This rapid response actively lowers the chance of sudden blackouts for the immediate neighbourhood.  Protection for appliances and equipment: Advanced smart inverters automatically manage voltage quality during both day and night. This continuous stabilization protects local household appliances, electronics, and farm machinery from damage caused by unexpected power surges or voltage drops.  A stronger, more reliable local grid: By utilising modern grid-forming technology, the battery installation mimics the physical strength of traditional power stations. It operates as a digital shock absorber for the nearby area, making the local network more resilient against everyday technical faults.  Faster emergency power recovery: The battery asset includes independent restart capabilities, known as "black start" support. If a natural disaster or major accident causes a total regional blackout, the facility can turn itself on without outside help. This allows the asset to serve as a local anchor point, helping network engineers restore power to the surrounding community much faster.

Question 6

Why was this site selected?

Accepted Answer

The site was chosen for its direct access to existing 33 kV transmission line and its proximity to an existing substation. The site is mostly open grassland with limited vegetation, allowing the project to be built with minimal impact. The site has limited access to water, which has restricted previous productive agricultural activity.

Question 7

What is a solar farm?

Accepted Answer

A solar farm is a large‑scale facility that generates electricity by using rows of solar panels to capture energy from the sun. The panels convert sunlight into electricity, which is then fed into the electricity network to supply homes and businesses.  A solar farm works by using large numbers of solar panels to capture energy from the sun and convert it into electricity. When sunlight hits the panels, it creates an electrical current. This electricity is then converted into a form suitable for the power grid and sent through electrical infrastructure to supply homes and businesses.

Question 8

What is a BESS?

Accepted Answer

BESS is an energy storage system that uses a group of batteries to store electrical energy from a variety of renewable sources (wind/solar) for later use and can respond faster than other energy storage or generation technologies.The system compensates for the intermittency of sources, providing backup power to address certain constraints such as weather conditions and lack of grid space.They are crucial to the increased adoption of dispersed energy sources and infrastructure, reducing the risk of widespread power outages.

Question 9

Who will assess and decide the proposal?

Accepted Answer

Assessment and decision will be undertaken by the State Government through the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning (DSDIP).

Question 10

What happened to the previous council application?

Accepted Answer

The previous Development Application (DA) for the proposal submitted to the Lockyer Valley Regional Council (LVRC) in November 2024 will now be subject to the new legislative changes to the planning system. The Planning (Social Impact and Community Benefit) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2025 introduced changes that see all large‑scale solar and wind projects required to undertake a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) and participate in a Community Benefit System, with assessment and approval undertaken by the State Government through the DSDIP. While LVRC is no longer the determining authority of the proposal, they remain a key stakeholder in the development and assessment of the proposal.

Question 11

What is the role of Council in decision-making and oversight?

Accepted Answer

While LVRC is no longer the determining authority of the proposal, they remain a key stakeholder in the development and assessment process. Future X Tech is currently preparing the planning application, including a range of studies and assessments that will outline potential impacts of the proposal and recommend mitigation measures where necessary to submit to the State Government later this year. 
Future X Tech is required to enter into a Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) with LVRC prior to submitting the application to DSDIP.

Question 12

How does the Social Impact Assessment (SIA) fit within the approvals process?

Accepted Answer

The Planning (Social Impact and Community Benefit) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2025 introduced changes that see all large‑scale solar and wind projects required to undertake a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) and participate in a Community Benefit System, with assessment and approval undertaken by the State Government through the DSDIP.

Question 13

What technical reports and assessments are being undertaken and when will they be made publicly available?

Accepted Answer

The robust planning and environmental approvals process ensures that any potential impacts are identified, assessed, mitigated, avoided or managed to minimise the impacts on the local community and environment. Future X Tech is preparing a range of assessments to support the planning application including: 
Visual Impact Assessment and Landscaping  Glint And Glare Environmental, And Biodiversity Impacts Fire Management Stormwater Management Social Impact Assessment  Local Traffic and Transport Noise  All supporting technical assessments will be made available for community review, from lodgement of the application to the State. After the application is submitted and any further information requested by DSDIP is provided, Future X Tech will notify the local community via a public notification process. During this period all supporting technical assessments will continue to be made available for community review and anyone can make a submission.

Question 14

How will view lines and visibility be addressed?

Accepted Answer

An independent Visual Impact Assessment is being prepared as part of the development application, alongside a Glint and Glare Assessment to consider the visual impact and potential for sunlight reflected from the panels to affect nearby public roads, buildings or residences.The proposal also includes landscape concept plans that incorporate vegetation buffer zones around the site, using tree and shrub planting to reduce visibility from surrounding properties and roads. We will continue to work with adjoining landowners to understand and minimise any impacts to their properties.

Question 15

How much noise will the project generate?

Accepted Answer

While solar panels are silent, the BESS may generate occasional, low-level noise from the sound of the cooling fans required to regulate the operating temperature of the individual battery cells. The sound is similar to an air conditioning unit or a dull whirring noise.An Environmental Noise Impact Report is being prepared as part of the development approval process. The BESS will be designed and located to minimise noise impacts, and noise levels will be required to meet Queensland regulatory standards at nearby residences. Routine inspections will include noise monitoring to confirm compliance, with any issues addressed promptly.

Question 16

Does the noise assessment include testing at night?

Accepted Answer

The noise assessment does include testing at night. The acoustic testing is conducted continuously over a full one-week period to ensure that night-time noise levels are recorded and evaluated.Data is collected from multiple monitoring points placed around the property. This seven-day testing schedule ensures the assessment captures the quietest periods of the night.All measurements are performed in strict accordance with relevant international standards, including:
ISO 3746:2010 (Acoustics standards for sound power levels)ISO 3745:2012 (Acoustics standards for high-precision testing environments)ISO 9614-1:1993 (Acoustics standards for sound intensity measurement)IEC 60076-10:2016 (International standards for power transformer noise levels)Using these recognised standards ensures that the project fully complies with official government noise limits during quiet night-time hours.

Question 17

How will fire risk be managed?

Accepted Answer

Australia has some of the strictest fire standards in the world and the project will be designed and constructed in accordance with these Australian Safety Standards.  If approved, a Fire and Emergency Management Plan will be prepared in consultation with Queensland Fire Department (QFD), setting out fire prevention measures and emergency response procedures. This includes procedures for monitoring to ensure that any fire risk is identified and addressed immediately. We will continue to engage closely with the local QFD to ensure that the local brigades are familiar with the site and the project meets their requirements.  The BESS will align with Clean Energy Council battery safety guidelines. Each battery enclosure will incorporate appropriate fire detection, ventilation, thermal management and suppression measures consistent with AFAC and Clean Energy Council guidelines, and will be located away from site boundaries and vegetation to minimise fire risk.

Question 18

How quickly do solar panels and batteries detect and respond to fire?

Accepted Answer

Modern utility-scale energy systems employ a layered safety approach, utilising high-speed electronic monitoring to detect anomalies and trigger protective shutdowns long before a fire risk can develop.While the specific response times vary based on the type of fault, the general safety protocols for battery and solar infrastructure are summarised below:·         Detection Speed: The Battery Management System (BMS) continuously scans system data. If an internal cell or module reports an abnormal reading (such as a slight temperature rise or voltage fluctuation), the system detects the anomaly in milliseconds.·         Response Speed: Upon detecting a fault, the system initiates an automated internal isolation sequence. The electrical contractors open instantly, disconnecting the affected battery string from the grid in milliseconds. This prevents thermal events from spreading to adjacent cells or modules.·         Active Cooling: The liquid-cooling systems integrated into the battery architecture act as a primary defence, actively regulating internal temperatures to maintain the battery within safe operating limits, thereby preventing potential ignition at the source.Solar panels don't detect fire on their own - the safety features are built into the electrical system instead. The inverters and optimisers can detect the electrical signature of a spark or fault and shut down that part of the system within seconds.This removes the fire risk quickly and brings the voltage in the solar array down to safe levels - either when someone hits an emergency stop or if the system loses power from the grid. That means firefighters and other emergency responders can safely access the site.The design meets Australia's safety standards for renewable energy projects. It's built to be "fail-safe": automated sensors and controls respond faster, isolating faults in milliseconds to protect the site and surroundings.

Question 19

What are the risks of battery fires or explosions?

Accepted Answer

While utility-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) carry thermal and chemical risks, the statistical likelihood of an incident at a professional facility is extremely low and multiple layers of protection are in place to prevent them.The batteries proposed to be used in this project are a type called Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP). These are fundamentally different from the batteries in your phone or laptop — they are far more stable, much harder to ignite, run at a lower frequency and operational stress, and don't produce their own oxygen when something goes wrong and are highly resistant to catching fire. Utility BESS units are housed in rugged steel containers, kept at perfect operating temperatures by automated liquid-cooling loops, and protected from all external physical damage.We have outlined the key risks and how we are managing these risks.1.       Battery fire (thermal runway)If a battery cell short-circuits or overheats, transferring heat to surrounding cells and creating a self-sustaining loop.This is very unlikely with LFP batteries — they need extreme conditions to fail. The system is monitored 24/7 by computers that automatically isolate any problem area and boost cooling the moment a temperature rise is detected. The chance of a major fire event is less than 1 in 10,000 per year.2. Gas build up and explosionFaulty battery cells can release chemical gases during an internal fault. If these build up in an enclosed space, they could ignite.The containers have automatic gas detectors that pick up any dangerous vapours 2 to 10 minutes before smoke or flame can form. When triggered, the container automatically vents the gas and releases a fire-suppressing agent. Think of it like the safety systems at your local petrol station — just more automated and more sensitive.3. Re-ignition after a fireEven after a fire is put out, damaged batteries can still hold electrical charge and potentially reignite.LFP batteries are much less prone to this than other battery types. The moment a fault is detected, the system automatically cuts the electrical circuit — splitting the power into small, isolated, harmless blocks within milliseconds. This makes the site safe for emergency responders and technicians to inspect.4. Radiant heat spreading to nearby propertiesA battery fire releases thermal energy and radiant heat that could potentially affect neighbouring properties.LFP fires burn at much lower peak temperatures than standard lithium-ion or chemical fires. This thermal risk is fully managed by implementing strict safety buffers. The site is designed with strict setback distances (safety buffers) so that heat cannot reach the property boundary, or cross to neighbouring homes or land.

Question 20

Are rural fire brigades trained to respond to BESS incidents?

Accepted Answer

We recognise that Battery Energy Storage Systems are a relatively new type of infrastructure for rural Queensland, and that the techniques used to respond to a lithium-battery incident are different from those used for grass, scrub or structure fires. Supporting our local rural fire brigades to be confident and prepared is something we want to get right.The current Queensland frameworkThe Queensland Fire Department (QFD) is the lead agency for fire response at renewable energy facilities and is developing Queensland-specific guidance for BESS, solar and wind sites, scheduled for release in 2026.  QFD already works through the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC), whose 2025 Large-scale Battery Energy Storage System Installations guideline sets the national benchmark for fire safety strategy, site design and emergency response engagement at utility-scale BESS sites. Industry research also continues through programs like Fire and Rescue NSW's SARET Research Program, which is investigating best-practice fire brigade response to lithium-ion battery incidents.

Question 21

What is Future X Tech doing to support local brigades?

Accepted Answer

The project is actively exploring a range of ways to support Lockyer Valley's volunteer rural fire brigades, including:·         Early engagement with QFD: working with the QFD from the planning stage so the site's emergency response strategy is built with the right people from the outset·         Site-specific Emergency Response Plan: developed with QFD and local brigades, covering site maps, water points, isolation procedures, hazard zones, access routes, response plans, protecting surrounding assets and contact lists·         Familiarisation visits: inviting local brigade members to walk through the site before it opens, so crews already know where emergency stops, isolation switches and access routes are before any incident occurs·         Training support: the project is open to contributing to specialist battery firefighting training for local brigade members through nationally recognised providers·         Equipment and PPE: as part of ongoing negotiations with Council, the project is willing to discuss whether any equipment or protective gear needs identified by the brigades themselves can be addressed.Volunteer rural fire brigades are the backbone of Lockyer Valley emergency response, and we want any support the project provides to be genuinely useful, shaped by Council, QFD and the brigades themselves. We will continue to explore how the project can support local brigades through our Community Benefit Agreement.

Question 22

What emergency management plans are in place for flood scenarios?

Accepted Answer

A site-specific Stormwater Management Plan (SWMP) and supporting Hydraulic Impact Assessment have informed the site design so that flooding is not a risk. These technical studies confirm that the Koolkuna site is not located within a mapped flood hazard area and is not subject to riverine or creek flooding. The only credible water-related risk identified is localised overland stormwater run-off during heavy rainfall events, a normal characteristic of rural land in Southeast Queensland.

Question 23

Will the batteries be safe in a major storm?

Accepted Answer

All critical equipment - including the batteries, inverters and transformers - will be raised above the level of a 1-in-100-year storm event. This means even in an exceptionally severe storm, all electrical equipment stays dry and keeps working.

Question 24

Will the project cause flooding on neighbouring properties?

Accepted Answer

The design preserves the natural paths that water already takes across the land. Water will continue to drain through the site the same way it does today without any downstream impact. Detention measures (including the existing dam on the southern end of the property) ensure that the amount of water leaving the site during a storm will be no greater than it is right now, before any development.

Question 25

Could floodwater get into the batteries or cause a chemical spill?

Accepted Answer

The battery containers are waterproof, fully sealed and sit inside bunded enclosures. Even if water pooled around them, nothing can get in - and no contaminants can get out into the soil or stormwater. Emergency response during a flood or severe weather eventIf approved, an Emergency Management Plan (EMP) will be developed prior to construction and maintained throughout operations. In relation to flood and severe weather scenarios, it will include:24/7 remote monitoring of the site via the control system, with automated alerts for any abnormal conditions (including water ingress sensors at critical electrical enclosures).Pre-event procedures triggered by Bureau of Meteorology severe weather warnings, including site inspections, securing of loose materials, and confirmation that drainage infrastructure is clear and functional.Automated safe shutdown protocols, in the unlikely event of any fault or water-related risk, the solar array and BESS can be isolated from the grid within milliseconds and placed into a safe, de-energised state remotely.Coordination with local emergency services is being considered. If approved, EMP will be developed in consultation with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES), the State Emergency Service (SES) and Lockyer Valley Regional Council's Local Disaster Management Group, ensuring site information, access points and contact details are integrated into regional disaster response arrangements.Post-event inspection and recovery, following any significant weather event, a structured inspection of drainage paths, sediment controls, electrical infrastructure and site access will be undertaken before normal operations resume.

Question 26

Can the system operate safely in high temperatures?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the system has been designed and engineered to operate safely during extreme Queensland summer heatwaves without incident. The hardware utilises automated liquid cooling, multi-layered thermal protections, and stable chemical structures to handle summer conditions safely.

Question 27

Does the project pose a risk of chemical leaching/ risks to groundwater quality?

Accepted Answer

Solar farms do not generate industrial waste, toxic by‑products or chemical discharges during normal operation. Solar panels are manufactured and certified to Australian Standards and are solid, sealed units made from tempered glass, silicon cells, aluminium frames and non‑toxic polymer backing, with no free‑flowing liquids or hazardous chemicals.The Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) will be housed in sealed, waterproof and bunded containers to prevent any release of liquids. The site will be regularly inspected, with damaged equipment replaced promptly, and stormwater and erosion controls implemented to protect soil and nearby waterways during construction and operation.

Question 28

What chemicals are contained in the batteries?

Accepted Answer

The facility uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery technology. This specific chemistry is chosen because it relies on stable, widely available materials rather than volatile or toxic heavy metals.The primary components contained within the sealed battery cells are:·         Lithium Iron Phosphate: This serves as the positive cathode material. It is a stable, solid chemical compound made from non-toxic, abundant minerals.·         Graphite (Carbon): This forms the negative anode material, acting as the standard electrical conductor.·         Organic Electrolyte Solution: A liquid mixture containing lithium salts that allows the electrical charge to flow between the internal components of the cell.Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries used in older electronics, LFP chemistry contains zero cobalt, zero nickel, and zero lead or cadmium. This completely eliminates the severe toxic and environmental hazards commonly associated with heavy-metal batteries.To put this into perspective, these chemicals pose no open chemical hazard to the community or the local environment.A battery system does not behave like a chemical processing plant or a liquid fuel tank. The chemical compounds are completely solid or tightly sealed inside multi-layered, microscopic protective membranes within each individual cell. They cannot leak, dissolve into air, or escape under normal operation.Furthermore, because these cells are packed into modular racks and housed inside heavy-duty, waterproof, and bunded steel containers, there is no path for any chemical material to ever touch the soil or enter the groundwater supply. It functions as a completely self-contained, closed technical asset - offering a safety profile that is cleaner and more secure than a standard passenger vehicle parked on a suburban driveway.

Question 29

How much water is needed for the project and where will it be sourced from?

Accepted Answer

The primary use of water in the construction phase will be to keep dust levels low. This will be managed through sourcing water on site and purchased water brought to the site. There is a dam on the southern end of the block which could be expanded to collect more water if required.  There will be no extraction from local waterways. Once the construction phases have been completed, minimal water will be required. Depending on the rainfall, occasional cleaning (maybe twice per year) will be conducted, used the dammed water, or carted water. The solar farm will have very low water requirements after construction, and the project is designed to avoid impacts on local water availability for other agricultural users.

Question 30

Are there bore holes on the property?

Accepted Answer

Future X Tech is not aware of any operating water bores on the site. The site has historically had a bore hole, which is now unusable. The site has limited access to water, which is one of the reasons it has not supported intensive agricultural use. The project itself does not rely on groundwater, and water needs during construction will be managed through on-site collection (including the existing dam on the southern end of the block) and carted water, with no extraction from local waterways or aquifers planned.We understand questions about bore holes often relate to broader concerns about groundwater quality and long-term water security for surrounding properties. As outlined in the Contamination section of this FAQ, the project does not generate industrial waste or chemical discharges, the BESS is housed in sealed and bunded containers, and stormwater and erosion controls will be in place during both construction and operation, all designed to protect soil and groundwater on the site and on neighbouring properties.If any community member has specific information about a bore on or near the site that we should be aware of, we'd genuinely welcome that input through the project engagement channels, it helps us build a more complete picture.

Question 31

How is it feasible to supply large volumes of water to the solar farm when agricultural use lacks sufficient water?

Accepted Answer

A solar farm with sheep grazing uses significantly less water than the intensive agricultural activities the site was previously unable to sustain. Unlike irrigated cropping, which requires large volumes of water, solar generation uses virtually none, and low-density sheep grazing requires only modest stock water. The operation is designed to fit within the site’s existing water limits, without importing significant supplies or impacting local users.The Koolkuna site has restricted access to reliable water, which has constrained the kinds of productive agricultural use possible on the land, particularly water-intensive activities such as cropping, irrigated pasture or higher-density livestock operations. This was one of the considerations in selecting the site: it minimises the displacement of productive, water-dependent farming.The largest water demand will occur during construction, mainly for dust suppression on access tracks and laydown areas. This will be met using on-site sources, including the existing southern dam (which may be expanded), and supplementary carted water as needed. No water will be taken from local waterways or aquifers, and construction use will be temporary and controlled, without creating an ongoing demand on local supply. Once the project is operational, water requirements drop will reduce to very low baseline. Panel cleaning is typically only needed once or twice a year depending on rainfall and dust conditions and is undertaken using either dam water or carted water. There is no ongoing process water demand, no cooling water requirement and no irrigation associated with the solar infrastructure itself.Sheep grazing under and around the panel arrays (often referred to as agrivoltaics) is a low-water-demand land use compared with cropping or cattle. Panel shading helps retain soil moisture and can reduce animals’ water needs. Water will come from typical on-site sources, including the existing dam and captured rainfall, and the operation will be scaled to available water without relying on new external supplies. A detailed water management approach will form part of the Environmental Management Plan and Construction Management Plan, and water use will be monitored and reported in line with approval conditions. If community members have specific concerns about a particular water source or downstream user, we encourage you to contact the project team so they can be considered in the planning process.

Question 32

How many water storage tanks are proposed, and where will they be located?

Accepted Answer

The exact number, size and location of water storage tanks is still being worked through as part of the detailed design process and has not yet been finalised. The project is currently in the pre-lodgement phase, with subsequent design stages to follow once feedback from the Development Application process is received. We want to be upfront that these specifics will be confirmed progressively, rather than committed to before the underlying design work is complete.

Question 33

How we will approach tank locations

Accepted Answer

While final placement is yet to be confirmed, the design intent is to position any water storage so that visual impact on neighbours and the surrounding road network is minimised. This means:·         Locating tanks away from key view lines from adjoining properties and public roads wherever practical.·         Co-locating tanks with other infrastructure (such as the substation compound or maintenance areas) so visible elements of the site are grouped rather than scattered.·         Integrating tanks within the landscape design - including vegetation buffer zones, tree and shrub planting, and the use of natural topography for screening - consistent with the landscape concept plans being prepared as part of the DA.·         Considering colour and finish to help any visible tank surfaces blend with the surrounding rural setting.

Question 34

When this information will be confirmed

Accepted Answer

Final tank numbers, capacities and locations will be detailed in the subsequent design documentation that follows lodgement of the Development Application, and will be reflected in the Environmental Management Plan and Construction Management Plans. These documents will be made available for community review as part of the public notification process, and we will continue to share updates with neighbours and the broader community as the design progresses.If community members have specific concerns about visual amenity from vantage points, we welcome that input now through the project engagement channels so it can be considered as the design is finalised.

Question 35

Will surrounding property values be affected?

Accepted Answer

Property values are shaped by many factors, including housing demand, economic conditions, infrastructure investment and wider market trends. While some residents have raised questions about nearby renewable energy infrastructure, current evidence does not show a consistent negative impact on property values.Research from areas hosting major renewable energy projects suggests property markets continue to be influenced mainly by broader local and regional factors. (https://cleanenergycouncil.org.au/for-consumers/fact-sheets/impacts-and-benefits-to-consumers-get-the-facts/renewable-energy-property-prices-and-insurance)

Question 36

How the project's design helps minimise any perceived impact

Accepted Answer

While we cannot guarantee how individual buyers or valuers will respond, the project is being designed with the surrounding landscape and neighbouring properties firmly in mind. Measures that directly address the most common reasons people raise property value concerns include:·         Visual amenity: An independent Visual Impact Assessment and Glint and Glare Assessment are being undertaken, supported by landscape concept plans that include vegetation buffer zones, tree and shrub planting around the site, and ongoing engagement with adjoining landowners to understand and minimise impacts to their properties.·         Noise: An independent Environmental Noise Impact Report is being prepared, with night-time testing, and the project will be designed to meet Queensland regulatory noise limits at nearby residences.·         Traffic and roads: A Traffic Impact Assessment is being prepared, with construction traffic mandated through the Construction Management Plan to manage impacts on Sticklen Road and Lamberts Road.·         Site selection: The site was selected for its access to existing electricity infrastructure, mostly open grassland with limited vegetation, and limited historical agricultural productivity due to restricted water - reducing the displacement of higher-value rural uses nearby.·         Reversibility: Solar farms are a reversible land use. Infrastructure can be removed at the end of the project's life and the land returned to its previous agricultural use, meaning the project does not permanently alter the underlying character of the land.

Question 37

Ongoing engagement with adjoining landowners

Accepted Answer

We will continue to work directly with adjoining landowners through the project lifecycle to understand specific concerns about their properties and how the design can respond. If individual neighbours would like to discuss potential impacts on their property in more detail, we encourage them to contact the project team through the engagement channels listed at the end of this FAQ.

Question 38

Will insurance policies be affected?

Accepted Answer

The project would hold comprehensive insurance to cover potential losses, including unlikely events such as fire and natural events such as hailstorms, and any liability for third-party damage or injury.There is no specific evidence that renewable energy projects increase neighbouring landholders’ public liability insurance costs or affect access to cover. Industry publications suggest rising premiums experienced more generally over the past few years are not localised to only houses in proximity to renewable projects and are unlikely to be linked to clean energy projects. (https://cleanenergycouncil.org.au/for-consumers/fact-sheets/impacts-and-benefits-to-consumers-get-the-facts/renewable-energy-property-prices-and-insurance)

Question 39

Context for rural premiums

Accepted Answer

Rural insurance premiums have risen for reasons that have little to do with renewable energy, particularly an increasing frequency of natural disaster events across Southeast Queensland, higher rebuild costs, and global reinsurance market changes. These are landscape-scale factors affecting most rural communities.

Question 40

How the project's design helps

Accepted Answer

While insurer decisions sit outside the project's control, the design measures outlined elsewhere in this FAQ, including the layered fire safety approach, stable LFP battery chemistry, 24/7 monitoring, automated isolation and venting, stormwater controls, and engagement with Queensland Fire Department and local Rural Fire Brigades, are aimed at minimising the kinds of risks an insurer would consider.

Question 41

What roads will be used during construction and operation?

Accepted Answer

A Traffic Impact Assessment is being prepared to address construction and operational traffic and to ensure the local road network is appropriately managed.Site access will be provided via a single-entry point from Sticklen Road via Ma Ma Lilydale Road, designed to accommodate construction, operational and maintenance vehicles. During construction, all vehicle access will be from Sticklen Road, with limited and infrequent light vehicle access from Lamberts Road proposed during operations for maintenance purposes.Construction vehicle movements will be mandated through the Construction Management Plan, which will ensure any unlawful movements along Lamberts Road can be dealt with immediately and rectified.

Question 42

How will construction impacts be managed?

Accepted Answer

If approved, an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and Construction Management Plan (CMP) will be developed and consider mitigation and management plans to address and minimise the effects of dust, air, noise and light pollution created by the construction of the Project. It is expected that the conditions of approval will require the considerations of these potential impacts.

Question 43

How impacts will be monitored and addressed

Accepted Answer

·         Routine inspections during construction to confirm controls are in place and working.·         A community contact point for any questions, concerns or complaints during construction (details to be confirmed prior to works commencing).·         Clear escalation procedures so any issues raised by neighbours are responded to promptly.·         Compliance with approval conditions, the EMP and CMP will reflect the final conditions set through the Development Approval process, and compliance will be subject to regulatory oversight.

Question 44

Keeping the community informed

Accepted Answer

We will provide advance notice of major construction milestones, expected periods of heavier activity (such as deliveries of large components), and any temporary traffic arrangements. Updates will be shared through the project engagement channels listed at the end of this FAQ, and direct engagement with adjoining landowners will continue throughout construction.The final EMP and CMP will be made available as part of the project documentation, and we welcome community input on specific concerns now so they can be considered as the plans are finalised.

Question 45

Construction hours

Accepted Answer

Construction noise in Queensland is regulated under the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) 994. LVRC will be responsible for enforcing construction noise standards.Future X Tech is committed to following the guidelines for construction noise set by the EPA and will keep the community informed of construction activities ahead of time.Under the default noise standards in Queensland's Environmental Protection Act 1994, building work carried out by a registered contractor or builder, or under an owner-builder permit, is allowed from 6:30am to 6:30pm Monday to Saturday, with no work permitted on Sundays or public holidays.

Question 46

Are road upgrades required as part of the proposal?

Accepted Answer

A Traffic Impact Assessment is being prepared to address construction and operational traffic and to ensure the local road network is appropriately managed.Future X Tech is considering upgrades to Lamberts Road and is committed to working collaboratively with LVRC on local concerns about traffic and road upgrades. This will be finalised prior to submission.

Question 47

Will a new substation be required?

Accepted Answer

The site has been selected specifically because it can connect into existing electricity network infrastructure, which avoids the need for a major new substation as part of the Koolkuna Solar Farm and BESS.Avoiding a new substation means a smaller infrastructure footprint, fewer visual changes to the surrounding landscape and reduced construction impacts compared with projects that require new high-voltage substations to be built from scratch. It also reflects one of the original reasons the site was chosen - its proximity to existing distribution infrastructure, which allows the project to integrate into the network with minimal additional buildout.Final details of the connection arrangement and any associated network upgrades will be confirmed through the Energex connection process, and reflected in the documentation supporting the Development Application.

Question 48

How will the connection l work?

Accepted Answer

The project's grid connection has been designed around the existing Energex 33 kV distribution network, which runs in close proximity to the site:·         Power generated by the solar array will pass through the BESS transformers, which step the voltage up to 33 kV, the standard distribution voltage used by Energex in this area.·         From there, the 33 kV output will connect into the existing Energex 33 kV distribution line near the intersection of Sticklen Road and Lilydale Ma Ma Creek Road.·         This approach uses the existing network rather than requiring new high-voltage transmission infrastructure or a new substation footprint.

Question 49

Upgrades to existing network infrastructure

Accepted Answer

To support reliable two-way power flow and maintain power quality for nearby customers, some upgrades to the existing Energex network are expected. These would be undertaken by, or in coordination with, Energex and may include:·         An upgrade to the Carpendale sub-transmission transformer to improve power quality on the local network.·         Improvements to the feeder conductor running between Carpendale and Middle Ridge, to ensure the line can reliably handle the project's contribution to the grid.These upgrades take place on existing network assets and are aimed at strengthening the local network, not building new substation infrastructure on or adjacent to the Koolkuna site.

Question 50

Switching station on site

Accepted Answer

A small switching station will be located on the Koolkuna property to act as the isolation point between the project and the Energex network. Its role is to:·         Provide a controlled connection and disconnection point between the project and the grid.·         Allow power injection to be stopped quickly and safely when required, for example, during maintenance, in response to a fault, or at the direction of the network operator.The switching station is a much smaller and more compact piece of infrastructure than a substation and will be positioned and screened in line with the broader site layout and landscape design.

Question 51

How will the project impact local wildlife and biodiversity?

Accepted Answer

An ecological assessment is being undertaken as part of the planning process, and the project is designed to manage and minimise impacts on local wildlife and biodiversity during construction and operation. If approved, the site will be regularly monitored, with any wildlife interactions managed in accordance with Queensland environmental legislation and approved management procedures.

Question 52

How will livestock issues with dingoes and wild dogs be addressed?

Accepted Answer

We understand that wild dogs and dingoes are an existing concern for graziers in the Lockyer Valley, and this is something we have heard raised by neighbours during community engagement. While these pressures are not created by the project, we recognise that any change to land use in the area raises legitimate questions about how livestock, both on the project site and on neighbouring properties - will be protected. To address this the following mitigations are being proposed:·         Perimeter fencing: A 2-metre-high security fence is proposed around the Koolkuna solar farm and BESS infrastructure. While the primary purpose of this fence is site security and public safety, it will also provide a meaningful physical barrier that helps keep wild dogs and dingoes out of the fenced project area.·         Livestock management plan: If grazing of sheep is undertaken on the site as part of the broader land management strategy, a livestock management plan will be developed to guide stock welfare, stocking rates, predator-related risk management and routine inspection. This plan will be developed with input from the landowner and any grazing partner engaged to manage stock on the site.·         Site monitoring: Routine site inspections during operation provide an additional layer of observation, and any signs of wild dog or dingo activity on the site would be reported and managed in line with the livestock management plan and applicable Queensland biosecurity requirements.

Question 53

Working with existing community efforts

Accepted Answer

Wild dog and dingo management in the Lockyer Valley is a landscape-scale issue that pre-dates the project and is best addressed through coordinated, area-wide approaches led by Council, biosecurity authorities and local landholders. Future X Tech is open to:·         Participating in any existing community or Council-led wild dog and dingo management programs in the area, including coordinated baiting, trapping or monitoring activities, where the project site can play a constructive role.·         Engaging with neighbouring landholders through the project's ongoing community engagement to understand local pressures and how the project's fencing, monitoring and land management arrangements can complement what neighbours are already doing.·         Aligning with Queensland biosecurity obligations under the Biosecurity Act 2014, which sets the framework for managing pest animals across rural Queensland.

Question 54

How will fire ant risks be managed where new soil is introduced?

Accepted Answer

There is no requirement to either export or import soils, however, should this ever be required any movement of soil will comply with Qld Biosecurity Act and the National Imported Ant Eradication Program. All sourced soil or fill will be purchased from approved suppliers. All movement certificates and treatment declarations will be obtained. The site will monitor for signs of fire ants, especially in the initial phase and after any soil deliveries.

Question 55

How will the project impact soil health?

Accepted Answer

We understand the importance of preserving agricultural land and soil health. Solar farms are designed to be low-impact and fully reversible, allowing the site to return to productive farming once the facility is decommissioned.Solar farms are a reversible land use, with infrastructure able to be removed and the land returned to its current land use or agricultural purposes. The project is designed to protect soil health, support sheep grazing and manage erosion in line with planning, environmental and biosecurity requirements. The project is also exploring opportunities for crops beneath the panels, with the aim of supporting land productivity over time.

Question 56

What will happen at the end of the lifecycle of the BESS?

Accepted Answer

The project is being designed so the land can be returned to its current state, in line with environmental planning requirements. There will be no permanent loss of land function, and the owner is committed, and will be legally required, to fully rehabilitate the site to its former use. A decommissioning plan will be developed and outline requirements, and this will be a requirement for both lodgement of the application and will be finalised prior to any decision being made.

Question 57

How many jobs will the project create?

Accepted Answer

Construction and operation of the project will create around 55 to 75 jobs over a 8-9 month construction period and will support up to 3 ongoing jobs once in operation, based on the project's economic impact assessment. These long‑term positions will focus on asset management, electrical systems oversight and monitoring of the battery and solar plant, providing stable employment in the region.

Question 58

Will local suppliers be used?

Accepted Answer

Where possible, the project will prioritise local and regional suppliers for goods and services such as earthworks, transport, plant hire, fencing, electrical works, maintenance and professional services.This creates opportunities for small and medium‑sized businesses to participate directly in the project, helping build local capability, strengthen supply chains and improve business resilience over the longer term.

Question 59

What type of economic benefits will the project bring the region?

Accepted Answer

The project represents a substantial capital investment, with an estimated Construction Investment Value of approximately $100.6 million. This level of expenditure reflects the scale and technical sophistication of the solar and battery infrastructure, including high‑capacity battery storage, central inverters, electrical systems, civil works and grid connection assets.Construction activity will generate increased demand for local accommodation, food services, transport and everyday goods, supporting small businesses and creating flow‑on benefits across the Lockyer Valley economy.Renewable energy infrastructure is designed to operate for several decades. Unlike short‑term development activity, this investment brings enduring economic value and long‑term certainty to Lilydale and the broader Lockyer Valley.The project also helps position the region as part of Queensland’s clean energy future, supporting economic diversification and strengthening the local economy beyond traditional land uses.It is estimated that over the construction phase the Koolkuna Solar Farm and BESS will generate over $62.96 million in economic growth benefits (direct and indirect) within Queensland. During ongoing operations, the project is set to generate around $3.5 million in State economic benefits annually.

Question 60

What is a Community Benefit Agreement (CBA)?

Accepted Answer

A CBA is a legally binding agreement that will ensure the project (if approved) delivers tangible, place-based benefits for the local community.Future X Tech will be required to enter into a Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) with Lockyer Valley Regional Council, prior to the application being lodged to the State. Future X Tech is working with Lockyer Valley Regional Council to negotiate a CBA that is proportionate to the project and responsive to local needs and priorities.The agreement will be informed by the Social Impact Assessment (SIA), ensuring community benefits are targeted to the communities most directly affected by the project.So far, community members have shared a wide range of ideas for the Community Benefit Arrangement, including road infrastructure upgrades, cheaper power for local residents, grants, scholarships, upskilling opportunities and direct compensation for affected landowners. All feedback received will be carefully considered as the Community Benefit Arrangement is developed. We encourage the community to continue to be a part of this conversation by sharing what you think about what could be included in the CBA. Share your feedback here https://urbis.questionpro.com.au/t/ARokgZSDpb.:

Question 61

Will the project result in cheaper power?

Accepted Answer

Projects like Koolkuna contribute to keeping wholesale electricity prices lower over time, but household electricity bills are influenced by many factors beyond any single project.Increases in electricity bill prices are generally not attributed to the wholesale price of electricity, but rather increased retail costs associated with upgrades to infrastructure happening around the country.

Question 62

How the project contributes to lower wholesale prices

Accepted Answer

Wholesale electricity prices are set by the cost of generating and dispatching energy into the National Electricity Market (NEM). According to the Clean Energy Council, continuing to deploy renewable energy and storage helps keep wholesale electricity prices as low as possible. The Koolkuna project supports this in two specific ways:·         Low-cost solar generation: Once built, solar farms have very low ongoing fuel costs (sunlight is free) and low operating costs, allowing them to dispatch energy into the grid at competitive prices during daylight hours.·         Battery energy storage smoothing peak prices: The integrated 90 MWh BESS stores excess energy when generation is high and demand is low, then dispatches it back into the grid during evening peak demand periods. This reduces pressure on the network at the times when wholesale prices are typically highest, helping to lower the peaks that drive overall costs.By providing both generation and storage, the Koolkuna project supports a more balanced and reliable grid, and a more balanced grid is generally a lower-cost grid over time.

Question 63

Why household bills don't always move in line with wholesale prices

Accepted Answer

It's important to be transparent about what shapes a household electricity bill. Wholesale energy is only one component of the final retail price. The other major components include:·         Network charges: the cost of building, maintaining and upgrading the poles, wires, substations and transmission lines that deliver electricity from the generator to the home. These charges typically make up a large share of a residential bill.·         Retail costs and margins: the cost of metering, billing, customer service and the retailer's operating margin.·         Environmental and government scheme costs: including the cost of meeting regulated environmental obligations.Increases in household electricity bills in recent years have been driven largely by network and retail costs, particularly investment in upgrading ageing infrastructure across the country, rather than by the wholesale price of energy itself. This is why even significant wholesale price improvements may not flow through directly to household bills in the short term.

Question 64

What this means for the local community

Accepted Answer

The Koolkuna project will contribute to long-term wholesale price stability in Queensland by adding renewable generation and storage to the grid. It will support local grid reliability in South East Queensland, which helps reduce the risk and cost of outages. It is not a direct retailer, so the project itself does not set the prices that local households pay on their electricity bills.You can read the Clean Energy Council's full summary of renewable energy's impact on electricity prices here: https://cleanenergycouncil.org.au/for-consumers/fact-sheets/impacts-and-benefits-to-consumers-get-the-facts/renewable-energy-property-prices-and-insurance

Proposed Koolkuna Solar Farm and BESS

Project update

Why Lilydale?

1 / Network Access

2 / Suitable Terrain

3 / Poor Water Access

Project Benefits

Clean, reliable and affordable energy:

Local economic benefits:

Sustainable agricultural land use:

Lower emissions:

Community benefits:

Community Benefits

The Planning Pathway

Timeline

Project Update

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)