In 2009, the Federal Government announced the $1.5 billion Solar Flagships program, an initiative to support the construction of up to four large-scale, grid-connected solar power stations in Australia, using solar thermal and photovoltaic technologies.
Each of the consortium members has a proven track record in the solar PV industry. SMA has been a supplier to BP Solar since the late 1990’s and to FRV for several years.
The 150MW PV farm is expected to generate over 400 GWh of electricity each year, which is enough to power a city the size of Darwin.
While Moree Solar Farm is the first project of this scale to be constructed in Australia, SMA products are used in utility scale projects around the world.
“This project signifies a new era for solar energy in Australia and I’d like to congratulate all those concerned with making this a reality,” said Zygmunt Nejman, General Manager of SMA Australia.
“SMA has been involved in successful projects of this scale worldwide for several years and is delighted that the Federal Government has decided to harness the power of Australia’s most abundant resource – the sun,” Mr Nejman concluded. “It is great news for all those involved in the solar industry and signifies a substantial employment boost for New South Wales.”
Reductions in greenhouse gas emissions will be achieved by this project, as it displaces generation from other energy sources such as coal. Approximately 400,000 tonnes of C02 will be abated by this project each year, reflecting the emissions intensity of New South Wales energy generation.
Construction will begin in mid 2012 and the project is expected to be completed within four years.
The Solar Flagships program, part of the Australian Government’s Clean Energy Initiative, is intended to provide the foundations for large scale, grid-connected, solar power to play a significant role in Australia’s electricity supply.
New South Wales has strong natural advantages when it comes to solar energy, with low levels of humidity and up to 15 megajoules/m2 of solar exposure daily, perfect for large scale solar.
Issued by SMA Australia Pty Ltd
For further information please contact Anna Brazil, Marketing Communications Manager, on +61 2 9491 4219 or email Anna.Brazil@SMA-Australia.com.au.