The Andrews Labor Government has supported dozens of long-term jobseekers into meaningful employment during the construction of a new solar farm in the state’s North West.

The Beon Energy Solutions site at Yatpool, 25 kilometres south of Mildura, is nearing completion and incorporates 350,000 solar panels across 100 hectares, with the capacity to generate power to supply about 40,000 homes.

The project has created more than 190 jobs for Sunraysia, including 47 people supported into work by Jobs Victoria, the Labor Government initiative that breaks down barriers to employment through tailored programs that match jobseekers with best-fit employers.

The program focuses on ensuring people have the right support to get job-ready and among the crew at Yatpool are 15 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers and 11 refugees and people who have sought asylum.

The Beon Energy initiative has been a partnership between Jobs Victoria and the Mildura Rural City Council Community Employment Program, with support from recruitment agency Chandler Macleod.

Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula visited the Beon Energy Solutions solar development today to learn from workers and management about the success of the Jobs Victoria program.

The Yatpool solar farm is nearing completion, with all solar panels installed, electrical works almost signed off and commissioning under way.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula  

“Victoria has a growing reputation as a renewables powerhouse and we’re creating local jobs which further spread benefits through the community.”

“We’re working in partnership with companies like Beon Energy Solutions to break down barriers to employment and provide support for those who need it most. The results are fantastic to see.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“Victoria’s Renewable Energy Target has given solar and wind organisations all around the world the confidence to invest in our state – generating not just energy, but more jobs and economic opportunities for local communities.”

Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp

“We’re proud to be playing our part in supporting local jobs growth in the North West and powering ahead to create a renewable energy future.”

Quote attributable to Beon Energy Solutions general manager Glen Thomson

“The workers brought on through Jobs Victoria have played an important role on this solar project and we’re very pleased to have been able to provide support to Victorian jobseekers.”