A 58-MEGAWATT solar facility has been officially opened at Mokoan, a first for European Energy in Australia.

The facility is located on Lee Road and Nelson Road at Winton.

European Energy CEO Erik Andersen joined Benalla Rural City Council mayor Bernie Hearn on Yorta Yorta Country to inspect the operational testing of the facility.

Construction at Mokoan was completed ahead of schedule and under budget in late 2024, less than a year after European Energy’s financial investment decision.

Mr Andersen said Australia is a promising market for renewables and Mokoan Solar Farm is a milestone for European Energy’s ambitions in Australia.

“Our Australian team has a strong 9GW pipeline of projects under development, and seeing the first solar farm becoming operational is a proud moment," he said.

“The project will help deliver energy security for Victoria and reduce carbon emissions in the electricity sector by more than 85,000 tons a year.

“Mokoan Solar Farm will give back to local organisations, Yorta Yorta people, and regional business with an investment of more $400,000 to support community projects.

“We’re focused on local, regional, and Australian suppliers during the project and we’re proud that 150 local jobs were created during construction, with eight roles continuing into operations."

Mokoan Solar Farm was selected for the Australian Government’s Capacity Investment scheme.

The scheme encourages investment in renewables by providing a long-term revenue safety net.

European Energy was founded in Denmark in 2004 and is a leading player globally in renewable energy across solar, wind, green hydrogen, e-methanol, and other emerging technologies.