The University of Queensland has just announced the development of a $125 million solar farm to offset its electricity needs. With the proposed development, UQ will become energy neutral by 2020 and become the first major university in the world to do so. Generating enough power for 27,000 average homes, the solar farm will be located near Warwick, on Queensland’s Southern Downs. UQ already leads Australian universities in solar generation and this project continues to set the standard for sustainability, with the farm expected to be fully operational in 2019.

UQ Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Peter Høj said, “UQ will install several electric vehicle ‘fast chargers’, and the site will include a visitor’s centre, helping to position the Southern Downs as a renewable energy hub.”

“This project makes a clear and bold statement about UQ’s commitment to leadership in renewables and demonstrates UQ is prepared to make a meaningful investment in creating a sustainable future.”

The official announcement can be found at the University of Queensland website.