The $8.9 million project was originally opposed by Orange City Council in 2020 but it was approved by the Western Region Planning Panel who agreed to a 25-year lifespan.

However, the developers now wish to extend that lifespan to 35 years.

In their initial opposition to the project, councillors backed nearby landholders who said the farm was in the wrong place and was detrimental to their view.

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This was despite council staff recommending the project go ahead. The WRPP had the final say as the project was valued at over $5million.

In discussion on whether to make a submission opposing the extra 10 years proposed to the WRPP, last week's council meeting also asked that its opposition to the project again be noted.

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The solar farm's proposed site, in relation to the Orange City Council's draft local housing strategy which is on display, was questioned while Cr Tony Mileto raised concerns about the remediation of the site at the end of the its life.

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Cr Stephen Nugent was the only voice against making any sort of submission, saying the original DA was for 35 years. He also pointed out 35 years was the optimum time for it reach its full investment potential.

"It's already approved, all we are talking about is allowing it to be a more viable project," he said.

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