WATTS NEWS Week ending 4 June 2021

Historic CEFC investment to kickstart nation building Project EnergyConnect 31 May The CEFC has announced its single largest NSW and SA, with an additional link to North investment, with up to $295 million in capital West . ElectraNet is constructing the to play an instrumental role in developing SA portion of PEC. essential grid infrastructure – which will unlock renewable energy projects across CEFC CEO Ian Learmonth said: “It is significant three states and accelerate the that the largest single investment the CEFC decarbonisation of the National Electricity has made since we began investing will help Market. deliver more renewable energy to Australian consumers by adding a critical piece of The CEFC investment, on behalf of the infrastructure to our electricity grid. We are Australian Government has been made via an proud that CEFC finance is supporting this innovative subordinated note instrument important investment in the grid. which has contributed to the crowding in of further private sector debt to this critical “Project EnergyConnect reflects our strong project. The project will spur the generation focus on investing in essential grid of cleaner, cheaper and more reliable energy augmentation as part of ’s important across , Victoria and New renewable energy transition. We see exciting South Wales, leading to the creation of investment opportunities in energy thousands of jobs in regional Australia. transmission, interconnectors, renewable energy zones, pumped hydro, grid-scale The CEFC commitment is part of Project battery storage and green hydrogen. These EnergyConnect (PEC), a vital piece of energy assets can all play a critical role in the infrastructure spanning more than 900 accelerated decarbonisation of our electricity kilometres. It is a significant first step in the grid, delivering a cleaner and more reliable delivery of the Australian Energy Market energy system which takes advantage of our Operator (AEMO) 2020 Integrated System world leading renewable energy resources. Plan (ISP). We are also pleased to see our finance playing such a key role in delivery of the ISP.” PEC is the second CEFC investment in major electricity grid infrastructure in less than six TransGrid CEO Mr Paul Italiano said: “The months, following its $125 million investment agreement with the CEFC has been essential backing of Snowy 2.0 grid needs. to the Board’s final investment decision today and we are thankful to the CEFC for working The CEFC investment in PEC will see TransGrid with us to progress this important project.” build the NSW portion of the new 330kV interconnector connecting the energy grids of

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AEMO forecasts that PEC will unlock as much grid infrastructure, including our landmark as 1,800MW of renewable energy generation $125 million investment in grid infrastructure across Renewable Energy Zones, including which is critical to the delivery of the Snowy approximately 800 MW in SA, 400 MW in 2.0 pumped hydro project. NSW and 600 MW in Victoria. According to PEC, the development of this additional “A project of the scale and complexity of PEC renewable energy capacity will lead to the presents unique financing challenges to the creation of some 950 jobs across the region. investors. Our team has worked closely with In addition, up to 1,700 jobs will be created TransGrid on these challenges and developed during construction. an innovative financing solution critical to enabling the project to proceed.” Importantly for energy consumers, PEC is expected to deliver estimated annual energy Source: CEFC savings of about $100 to SA households and $60 to NSW householders. Businesses can also expect higher savings, proportional to their energy use. 1 Emissions fall to lowest level

The enhanced grid is expected to drive on record competition in the wholesale electricity 31 May market by connecting more, low-cost Today the Morrison Government released the generation to the grid. Its location near December 2020 Quarterly Update of identified renewable energy zones will Australia’s National Greenhouse Gas support grid connection for future renewable Inventory. energy projects as well as enable SA to increase the export of its renewable energy In the year to December 2020, emissions were production into the national market.2 499.0 million tonnes – 5.0 per cent or 26.1 million tonnes lower than in 2019. By creating a second point of connection between SA and the NEM, the PEC will This is the lowest level on record and 20.1 per significantly reduce the risk of the SA grid cent below 2005 levels (the baseline year for being “islanded” or disconnected from the our 2030 Paris Agreement target). NEM. Victoria’s Alcoa Portland aluminium smelter will also indirectly benefit from PEC, When exports are excluded, domestic with an alternate interconnector from SA to emissions are now 37.4 per cent below 2005 the rest of the NEM enabling critical levels. maintenance to be performed at the nearby . Emissions from continued their long-term, structural decline Managing Director Rick in 2020, down 4.9 per cent or 8.7 million Francis said: “We are delighted with the tonnes relative to 2019. support received from the Australian Government’s CEFC to get this important Fugitive emissions also fell 8.8 per cent or 4.8 project across the line. Without it TransGrid’s million tonnes, with the ramp up of the credit metrics would have been materially and Gorgon carbon capture and storage facility in negatively impacted such that EnergyConnect Western Australia making a significant would have been unable to proceed.” contribution. The Gorgon CCS facility will permanently store around 4 million tonnes of Mr Learmonth added: “With this investment carbon dioxide each year at full rate, making it in Project EnergyConnect, the CEFC has the largest, purely emissions reduction facility committed $420 million to nation building of its kind in the world.

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COVID-related restrictions on transport bolster Australia’s position as a leader in low activity reduced emissions from that sector by emissions technologies and to meet 12.1 per cent or 12 million tonnes. Land Australia’s emissions reduction targets, taking sector emissions were slightly higher over the our total expected investment to more than year to December. $20 billion over the decade to 2030.

The Government’s strong management of the Investing in low emissions technologies will economic and health response to the enable Australia’s continued success in pandemic saw the Australian economy grow meeting and beating our emissions reduction by 3.1 per cent during the December quarter, targets. Australia beat its 2020 target by 459 while emissions fell 0.6 per cent on a million tonnes and we are on track to meet seasonally adjusted and weather normalised and beat our 2030 Paris target. basis. Over the last two years, the projected Reductions in electricity and fugitive emissions reductions required to achieve that emissions more than offset a small rise in target have fallen by 639 million tonnes – the transport emissions during the December equivalent of taking all of Australia’s 14.7 quarter. million cars off the road for 15 years.

In the year to March 2021, emissions in the Between 2005 and 2019, the last year for National Electricity Market fell 5.6 per cent. which comparable data is available, Australia reduced emissions faster than many similar The continuing structural decline in emissions economies, including Canada, New Zealand, from electricity is driven by Australia’s world- Japan and the United States. leading deployment of solar and wind. Since 2017, Australia has invested over $35 billion in The Quarterly Update of Australia’s National renewables and in 2020 deployed new wind Greenhouse Gas Inventory: December 2020 and solar PV at eight and a half times the can be found global per capita average. here: https://www.industry.gov.au/data-and- publications/national-greenhouse-gas- The production of exports for overseas inventory-quarterly-update-december-2020 markets generates 39.1 per cent of Australia’s total emissions. The value of Australia’s Source: Federal Government overseas exports has increased by around $110 billion since 2013, reflecting the Government’s strong economic management. PROJECT NEWS Avonlie Solar Farm Despite upward pressure from growth in RES Australia has submitted a development exports and industry, emissions per capita and modification for its proposed Avonlie Solar the emissions intensity of the economy Farm in NSW to reconfigure the layout and continue to fall and are at their lowest levels capacity of the proposed Battery Storage in three decades. Facility (BSF). It is proposed to change the

current approved BSF to a DC-coupled (direct The Government has a comprehensive suite current) arrangement, spread out across the of policies to meet its emissions reduction site instead of in one discreet location. commitments, encourage innovation and back Battery storage capacity would increase from new and emerging low emissions the original pilot study of 10MWh to technologies. approximately 100MW/100MWh, and each

containerised unit will be sited adjacent to the The Government has announced, as part of inverters. the 2021-22 Budget, a further $1.6 billion to

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Capital raised for Bowsprit Latest Generation Information drilling and entry into from AEMO highlights ongoing hydrogen project NEM transition 31 May 31 May HIGHLIGHTS: The latest data from AEMO highlights the • PRM has received a firm commitment from rapid growth in proposed solar and wind Lead Manager GTT Ventures Pty Ltd to raise projects, continuing the rapid pace of change A$3.2 million before costs. experienced in the National Electricity Market • Funds raised will facilitate the Bowsprit (NEM) last year, with new records set for both drilling program and investment in Patriot the number of new electricity generation Hydrogen, an Australian based green projects and megawatt (MW) capacity. hydrogen business to complement PRM’s oil and gas activities. The Generation Information page on the AEMO website reports information on the Patriot Hydrogen Investment capacity of existing, withdrawn, committed, • A Binding term sheet has been signed to and proposed generation projects in the acquire 20% of Patriot Hydrogen Pty Ltd. The National Electricity Market (NEM). AEMO acquisition is subject to due diligence and collects generation information reported here PRM shareholder approval of the issue of the from generation industry participants, via a consideration shares. web-based online system, and is committed • Patriot initially intends to construct a to publishing updates of information collected Biomass to Hydrogen plant at Port Anthony in every three months, or as required. Victoria where Patriot holds a binding term sheet to lease the site and construct the plant. The latest data is consistent with AEMO’s • The hydrogen plant is anticipated to take 2020 Integrated System Plan forecast that 63 approximately 12 months to be planned, per cent of coal-fired generation is set to constructed, commissioned and reach steady retire by 2040, replaced by wind and solar state production of 2 tonnes of hydrogen per farms that are complemented by up to 19 day. gigawatts of firming generation, such as • Patriot will licence, build and develop the pumped hydro, battery storage and gas. brand “Patriot 2 Hydrogen (P2H) units” for these biomass to hydrogen plants within Australia. The data shows that existing coal-fired generation capacity set to retire in coming Commenting on the news Mr Parks, Managing years is now sitting at more than 23,200 MW. Director of Prominence Energy said “It is The detailed and up-to-date listing of the exciting to be drilling and appraising the expected closure date for generating units can upside potential of Bowsprit this year and be found in AEMO’s “Generating unit announcing our first step into the hydrogen expected closure year” spreadsheet. sector. We believe the Patriot investment is an exciting entry for PRM into the growing The newly-released generation data also Australian Hydrogen sector. Patriot has great highlights the fast-growing volume of new potential to grow by placing P2H units in batteries in the pipeline – a significant numerous settings to provide locally increase in new projects just this year, with produced, low carbon electricity and proposed battery storage representing a total hydrogen, both generated from essentially capacity of more than 18,660 MW. carbon neutral waste biomass materials. As the world transitions to a lower carbon base, Source: AEMO PRM will transition too.”

Source: Prominence Energy

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WSE is embarking on a NEW PROJECTS comprehensive technology Jeremiah Wind Farm Location: Gundagai, NSW enhancement program called Capacity: 400 MW Project Bluefire Developer: CWP Renewables 31 May Status: Project feasibility & technical Project Bluefire will include using real data assessments generated from the grid connection of Description: The proposed Jeremiah Wind UniWave200 at King Island in Q1, 2021. It is Farm is located approximately 25km east of designed to prove the cost effectiveness of Gundagai, within the Cootamundra-Gundagai the technology for larger capacity commercial Regional Council area. The proposed project projects of 1 MW or more. currently comprises 65 wind turbines and battery energy storage. It’s expected the Cost effectiveness may initially be achieved by project will create around 260 jobs. The displacing diesel power generation in remote project is located on private land near locations and/or integrating the units into Adjungbilly in the south-west slopes of NSW. new or existing breakwaters. However, the The land proposed for the development is eventual aim is to be cost competitive with predominantly used for agricultural activities, other forms of renewables at grid scale. and adjacent to commercial forestry Established evidence around technology plantations (both State and private). The learning rates will be used to estimate how location has existing high voltage grid much installed capacity is required to achieve connection opportunities and excellent road this. access. Contact: Jessica Petersen The intended outcomes of Project Bluefire Project Manager include: CWP Renewables - a validated software simulation tool that will Tel: (02) 4013 4640 model any resource and output the expected Email: [email protected] annual yield - an advanced OWC with significant efficiency Spicers Creek Wind Farm improvements over the current UniWave200 Location: Spicers Creek, approximately 30km - the detailed design of the next generation west of Gulgong in Central West NSW cost effective UniWave structure; and Capacity: TBD - design and incorporate an electrical system Developer: CWP Renewables that is more efficient and cost effective at Status: Community drop-in day held scale. (An energy storage module is planned Description: The proposed Spicers Creek Wind to be installed in the King Island unit.) Farm location is well suited to wind generation due to a reliable wind resource, These innovations are expected to increase low density of rural residential dwellings and the energy output of WSE devices, lower the position within the Central West-Orana cost of energy generation, and broaden the Renewable Energy Zone. CWP Renewables market applicability of the WSE technology by has been working with landholders in the making it suitable for use in a wider range of Spicers Creek area since 2019, and is assessing locations. the feasibility of the wind farm in more detail. Contact: Trish McDonald Source: Wave Swell Energy Project Manager Tel: (02) 4013 4640 Email: [email protected]

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Renewable gas certification to "From 2022, approximately 95,000 gigajoules of biomethane will be generated each year drive net zero emissions future through Australia's first biomethane-to gas 1 June project – enough to meet the gas demand of Gas customers across NSW will soon be able 6300 homes." to buy renewable gas to help reduce their carbon emissions following the launch of The pilot will design and test a simplified Australia's first Renewable Gas Certification renewable gas registry, which will make scheme. renewable gas available to a small number of customers in early 2022. The MBIP is expected Energy Minister Matt Kean said a renewable to come online at the same time. gas certification scheme will unlock a voluntary market for gas users to buy Renewable gas, such as hydrogen and renewable gases, like biomethane which can biomethane, is derived from a clean energy be produced from wastewater, food and source, which creates zero additional carbon garden waste. emissions when burnt. For more information visit GreenPower "Replacing natural gas with hydrogen or biomethane can help NSW industries meet Source: NSW Government their net zero emissions targets, putting them ahead of the pack in low carbon global economy," Mr Kean said.

"Unlocking a renewable gas market will help Infigen Energy completes re- our industrial and manufacturing sectors brand to Iberdrola Australia decarbonise by giving them more clean 1 June energy choices." Today we are pleased to announce the completion of our brand transition from The scheme will be piloted at the Malabar “Infigen Energy” to “Iberdrola Australia”. The Biomethane Injection Project (MBIP), brand transition follows the friendly Australia's first wastewater biomethane acquisition of Infigen Energy by Iberdrola, facility. The new facility will convert raw announced in June 2020, and completed in biogas into biomethane, which will then be December 2020. injected back into the NSW gas distribution network. The Iberdrola brand is globally recognised for its exceptional financial strength, its Minister for Water, Property and Housing leadership in corporate social responsibility, Melinda Pavey said by using Water's and its proven commitment to rapid existing biomass and waste streams the renewable energy growth. project will be turning waste into clean energy. Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Iberdrola Australia Ltd, Ross Rolfe, AO, said: "Here at Malabar, Sydney Water processes “Infigen, now Iberdrola Australia, has a fifteen wastewater from 1.4 million households in year history of leading the renewable energy Sydney. As part of the treatment process, transition in Australia. Central to our strategy Sydney Water produces biogas, which is about is the belief that customer needs should be at 60% methane. A combustion engine the heart of the renewable energy transition. transforms this biogas into electricity and heat All across the country we are seeing to power Sydney Water's Wastewater Australian households, businesses and Treatment Plants," Mrs Pavey said. industries voluntarily transition to green power. These choices demonstrate that

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Australian consumers to increasingly flexible power for delivery into Australia’s committed to energy solutions that preserve National Electricity Market. The project has our natural environment and reduce our moved into the construction phase in May reliance on fossil fuels. At Iberdrola Australia, 2021 after recently receiving approval from our strategy is to help Australian businesses the Australian Renewable Energy Agency and industries achieve these environmental (ARENA). And because it’s a world first, the sustainability objectives. We are delighted to project has taken some specialised design to have joined the Iberdrola Group, a global secure the financial backing of AUD47 million renewable energy leader with deep financial from ARENA and AUD610 million from resources and unparalleled growth targets. Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility. We have never been better positioned to serve Australian customers”. The GHD – Mott MacDonald Joint Venture will deliver all design services to the EPC Global Director of Renewables at Iberdrola SA, contractor McConnell Dowell – John Holland Xabier Viteri, said: “In 2020 Iberdrola made a Joint Venture. long-term commitment to Australia. There are significant opportunities to expand the role of “Our Joint Venture teams have been working clean renewable energy and to help navigate together with Genex in the early development the path to Net Zero. Our experience around phases of the project and continuation of this the world shows that technologies like coal proven collaborative relationship will play an can be replaced by wind and solar and important part in the successful delivery of storage, at a lower cost and at the same time the project,” says Craig Berry, GHD’s Project creating high quality long-term jobs. We want Director. to be at the centre of Australia’s energy transition and help customers to benefit from Minimising environmental impacts and electricity supplies that are reliable, benefiting from the storages created by the affordable and clean.” mine, the project is repurposing the former gold mine site and turning two existing pits at Source: Iberdrola the mine into lower and upper reservoirs for water to be stored, integrating with the already built Kidston Solar Power Plant.

World’s first pumped storage During the day, solar electricity generated from the solar plants will be used to pump hydro project to utilise an water for the lower to the upper reservoir. abandoned gold mine This water will be released from the upper to the lower reservoir during peak electricity 1 June demand periods generating dispatchable Global professional services company GHD is electricity. And each evening grid power will delivering the detailed design services for the also be used to pump water into the upper ground-breaking 250 MW Kidston Pumped reservoir storing electricity to dispatch during Storage Hydro project in a joint venture with peak demands. Mott MacDonald. Located north west of

Townsville in Queensland, this world first The project also involves the construction of Genex Power project will convert a significant underground infrastructure decommissioned gold mine into a pumped including a large powerhouse cavern, storage hydroelectric power generation waterway shafts and tunnels and includes a facility, forming a key part in Australia’s future 25 m high embankment dam around the energy transition. upper reservoir. The powerhouse will contain

two 125-MW reversible pump turbine units The project has the potential to generate up supplied by ANDRITZ. to 250MW of rapid response, emissions-free

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“This project will also be the first pumped East Coast acquisition hydro energy storage project in more than 40 1 June years in Australia, so it’s really exciting to be National essential power and communications part and be leading the way in new energy infrastructure provider GenusPlus Group Ltd generation. This innovative solution which (ASX: GNP) (“GenusPlus”, or the “Company”) uses old mines will create lasting benefit to today announced it has entered and the local communities,” says Brendan Henry, completed a Share Sale and Purchase GHD’s National Practice Leader, Tunnels and Agreement to acquire 100% of the shares in Engineering Delivery Manager for the project. Connect Engineering Pty Ltd and its wholly

owned subsidiaries (Connect) for a total Construction on the Kidston Pumped Storage consideration of $5.55 million. The Hydro is expected to be finished by 2024. consideration will comprise $5.05 million from

existing cash and bank facilities and $500,000 Source: GHD in GenusPlus shares and be earnings per share

accretive from completion on 31 May 2021.

PROJECT NEWS Connect is a market leading provider in the New England Solar Farm NSW power distribution sector with annual Green Light Contractors Pty Ltd has been turnover in excess of $30 million and FY20 awarded with the EPC contract for the New normalised EBITDA of $2.1 million. Connect is England Solar Farm (NESF) – Stage one with registered under the Accredited Service UPC. The project is located within Uralla Shire Provider Scheme. It has been in continuous Council (USC) in the Northern Tablelands operation since 1998. region of . NESF is located approximately 6km north-east of Uralla, 15km Through this acquisition GenusPlus will build south of Armidale and 80km north of upon the integrated delivery model Tamworth. The New England Solar Farm will established by Connect, and it will significantly occupy a 3,362-hectare site. expand GenusPlus’ ability to provide power solutions to the infrastructure, industrial, Stage one includes a 400MWAC solar farm, commercial and residential developments 33/330kV Substation, and an operations and sectors. This includes the design and maintenance building (O&M Building). construction of assets operated by and , two of the largest Approximately 978,576 Photovoltaic modules operators of NSW power networks. will be mounted onto a horizontal single-axis tracking system that follows the path of the GenusPlus will continue to operate Connect sun. from the existing strategically located offices in Sydney and Newcastle, facilitating the Using inverters and step-up transformers, the ongoing expansion of GenusPlus’ presence in PCUs will convert the DC electrical energy into the power market in NSW. Connect will help AC electrical energy at an optimized position GenusPlus for future East Coast reticulation voltage, anticipated to be 33 kV. infrastructure spend, including the $2.3 billion SA-NSW interconnector which was recently How to register an Expression of Interest approved by the Australian Energy Regulator. To submit an initial EoI for the Work Scopes, Significant additional East Coast transmission companies must have an ICN Gateway infrastructure is required to enable renewable company profile. projects to connect to the grid and supply new energy into the network, whilst Full details are available here maintaining network stability. https://gateway.icn.org.au/project/4682/new -england-solar-farm

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Key executive and operational personnel are proportion of its revenue from this market being retained to ensure a seamless and is focused on replicating its Western ownership transition for all stakeholders. Australian business model on the east coast.

GenusPlus’ Managing Director, David Riches Source: GenusPlus said “This exciting acquisition of a highly regarded provider of power solutions in the NSW market will further embed GenusPlus in the large east coast energy market. It marks 5B completes Pre-series B significant further progress by GenusPlus towards achieving its strategic priority of fundraising round to expanding its capability to service the east accelerate growth coast energy market.” 1 June

5B, an Australian clean technology business HIGHLIGHTS: and developer of MAVERICK - the • GenusPlus continues its expansion into the prefabricated, rapidly-deployable solar East Coast power distribution market with the solution - today announced successful acquisition of Connect Engineering Pty Ltd completion of its AUD 12 million Pre-Series B • The acquisition will position GenusPlus for funding round. 5B launched its Pre-Series B future East Coast power infrastructure spend, funding round in late 2020 to accelerate its including the $2.3 billion SA-NSW technology development roadmap and interconnector which was recently approved expansion into new global markets, along with by the Australian Energy Regulator bringing new strategic impact investors into • Significant additional East Coast the business. The round was closed in April transmission infrastructure is required to 2021, fully funded and over-subscribed. enable renewable projects to connect to the grid, whilst maintaining network stability The round was predominantly supported by • Connect Engineering clients include two of existing investors, led by The AES Corporation the largest operators of NSW power (NYSE: AES) & Artesian Venture Capital and networks, Endeavour Energy and Ausgrid including Startmate & Eytan Lenko (Beyond • Connect Engineering has annual turnover of Zero Emissions Chairperson). They were also circa $30m and FY20 normalised EBITDA of joined this round by new investors including $2.1m Malcolm Turnbull (former Prime Minister of • Cash and share consideration of $5.55 Australia) & Simon Holmes à Court (Smart million Energy Council Director). • Acquisition immediately EPS accretive for

GenusGroup Since the close of its Series A fundraising in

mid 2020, 5B has continued to gain traction in Connect Chief Executive Officer, John Saleh the market and achieve important milestones said “Connect and GenusPlus are a great fit. I for its MAVERICK solution, as it drives cost have worked closely with David on the sale down and scales up delivery with its process and look forward to working with him ecosystem of partners. Most notably is its first to grow and expand our operations on the international project, with AES Panamá East coast. The whole Connect team are deploying 2 MW in 10 working days, and its looking forward to a long and rewarding first 10 MW+ scale project - with Enerven (for relationship as we join GenusPlus.” end customer SA Water), deploying a 12MW

project in Adelaide, Australia - at a peak rate The Connect acquisition is the next step in the of nearly 3MW per week with a deployment Company growth strategy of expanding into team of only 6. 5B is also building a strong the much larger east coast markets. The order book, including most significantly a 100 Group currently generates a relatively small MW global services & supply agreement, with

Page 9 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) its lead strategic partner AES - including sales Connections Reform Initiative of the first MAVERICK projects in the United 2 June States, Chile & India, and first projects sold to As many in the energy industry are aware, other leading international solar power one of the greatest barriers to the rollout of producers. renewable energy and hybrid projects has

been issues with grid connection. In early 5B will deploy its Pre-Series B funding to 2020, the Clean Energy Council (CEC) and the continue to build its now 100+ strong team, Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) establish a new clean energy campus as its brought together some CEC members, headquarters in Sydney, accelerate its Network Service Providers (NSPs) and other technology development roadmap - including industry stakeholders to address concerns forthcoming release of the next generation of with the delays and the increasing complexity MAVERICK products and their manufacturing in connections. & deployment, launch a series of new international markets (including the United What was clear out of those conversations States, Chile and India) and continue to was the need to develop a range of solutions develop its pipeline of projects and scale up to address the systemic concerns involving all with its ecosystem of partners at home and parties in the connection process. It is vital internationally in readiness for the 10s and that improvements are made to the 100s of GWs to come. connections process to ensure the system can

safely and securely take on the high number “We are at the cusp of what will arguably be of large-scale renewable energy projects that the next industrial revolution for the world, are and will continue to register to connect to driven by ultra low-cost, massively abundant Australia’s power systems. clean energy from solar PV. The only remaining question is not if, but how quickly, We have now jointly established the we will achieve this.” said Chris McGrath, Co- Connections Reform Initiative that aims to founder & CEO of 5B. “Continued alignment work through a range of the complex issues to with our vision and growing confidence in our improve grid connection. ability to uniquely contribute to this from our investors and partners is enabling 5B to keep What is the Connections Reform Initiative? running as hard and fast as we all need to be The initiative is a joint project by the CEC and together to realise this future”. AEMO and involves CEC members, NSPs and

industry and market body representatives, 5B is excited to welcome its newest group of including the Australian Energy Market investors to the business, including Malcolm Commission (AEMC), Australian Energy Turnbull - the former Prime Minister of Regulator (AER) and the Energy Security Board Australia - who said “5B is one of the most (ESB). Together, we are working towards the innovative Australian clean energy companies. following objectives: Their MAVERICK technology is the keystone to - a consistent and predictable connections unlocking the next generation of clean energy process that delivers repeatable outcomes at the scale required to urgently address - reduce re-work and improve efficiency and climate change”. quality of information to address information

asymmetry Source: 5B - create a collaborative working model

between industry, AEMO and the NSPs

Neil Gibbs (from Online Power) was appointed as an independent facilitator to bring structure, rigour and objectivity to the process.

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This is a vital initiative to further alleviate will be released for broader consultation. The roadblocks our industry is facing and allow for form of what that consultation looks like will the continued growth of large-scale vary depending on the recommendations renewable projects. being made. More information will be provided as work continues and the draft Progress to date and next steps recommendations are developed. Associated work contributing to the new Connections Reform Initiative commenced in For Clean Energy Council members, the CEC’s February, helping identify five key priority Market & Grid Directorate is the primary areas: forum where members will be kept informed - Appropriate data and information symmetry on progress and have an opportunity to input - Confidence in when a project is bankable into the process. If you are not already - Complications and delays during registration involved in the Directorate and would like to and commissioning be, contact our membership team to find out - Anticipating the system of the future, and more at building for it today [email protected] or - Availability of skills and capability to support 03 9929 4140. all parties across all stages of the process (i.e. the human capital to make this happen). Source: Clean Energy Council

Clusters have been established to work through each of these priority areas and will involve: CIMIC’s UGL secures $150m - Problem definition (mostly complete in the first stage of the project, but will be refined contract at Kidston clean where required) energy project - Identifying solutions 2 June - Solution design and implementation CIMIC Group’s UGL has secured a contract for planning the design, construction and installation of a

high voltage transmission line from Kidston to The clusters have completed 16 workshops. Mt Fox in Queensland, and a new 275kV This work will be presented and consulted on switching station located at Mt Fox. at an all-day Solutions Exploration Workshop on Friday 4 June 2021. The contract will provide revenue to UGL of

approximately $150 million. The initiative is designed to create and sustain open and honest conversations. The five UGL is currently performing early works and clusters will tackle the priority issues in mobilisation for the contract with its client, parallel, allowing the Connections Reform Powerlink, in support of the Kidston Clean Initiative to build momentum and speed to Energy Hub in Queensland. address the current issues.

CIMIC Group Executive Chairman and Chief These are varied and complex systemic issues Executive Officer Juan Santamaria said: “This that will take time to address, but we want to project will deliver a transmission line and ensure progress is made as soon as is switching station to connect the Kidston Clean reasonably possible. Work is expected to Energy Hub to the national electricity grid – a proceed across the majority of 2021. vital step in the provision of power to

Queenslanders and businesses. The award How can I hear more or be involved? follows UGL’s involvement with other critical Once draft recommendations have been power infrastructure projects in regional developed for each of the priority areas, these

Page 11 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) areas, including Queensland’s CopperString to https://www.qut.edu.au/research/our- 2.0 and South Australia’s Hill to Hill project.” research/renewable-energy

UGL Managing Director Doug Moss said: “UGL Pursuant to the service agreement, QUT will has an exciting pipeline of work in delivering provide Lion with QUT’s myGlobe software high voltage power projects around Australia, tool to assist Lion in its review of Green providing communities with a safe and Hydrogen infrastructure largely using reliable power supply in some of our most geospatial data visualisation. remote regions. We are delighted to build on our relationship with Powerlink for this For the geospatial data visualisation of important renewable energy infrastructure Queensland data sources are expected to project.” include Queensland-wide: • Solar resources Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Minister • Wind resources Mick de Brenni said: “By connecting the first • Surface and groundwater resources with pumped hydro storage project in Queensland visualisation of salinity, water levels, and in more than 40 years, the Palaszczuk where possible, electrical conductivity (EC) Government is ensuring the security of the • Transmission and distribution of electricity network. Not only that, construction of the and natural gas 186km transmission line alone will support • Major roads and rail connections 400 jobs and have impacts across the supply • Land use related to industrial activities, chain in communities like Ingham and transport hubs and ports Charters Towers.” • Energy trade connections

Source: CIMIC Mr Tom Soulsby, Lion’s Executive Chairman, said “we welcome the opportunity to get support from QUT for this important planning work. We re-emphasise the criticality of Lion Signs Service Agreement focusing our efforts at the intersection of renewable electricity and water resources, with QUT to assist in the hydrogen markets and technology.” optimal location of Green The signing of the Services Agreement forms Hydrogen infrastructure part of "Stage 2" of Lion's Hydrogen Strategy 2 June and budget as announced on 7 May 2021. The Key Highlights: Company cautions that there can be no • Service agreement signed with QUT. certainty that a suitable hydrogen opportunity • QUT will assist LION using their myGlobe will be identified. software tool to optimise the location of potential Green H2 infrastructure in Further, there can be no certainty that any Queensland. conditions precedent to progressing such an • LION is excited to be working with a world- opportunity (including, without limitation, class team of researchers to advance its compliance with ASX Listing Rules 11.1.2 review of potential opportunities in Green and/or 11.1.3 to the extent applicable) will be Hydrogen. satisfied.

Lion Energy Limited (“Lion” or “Company”; Source: Lion Energy ASX: LIO) is pleased to announce the execution of a service agreement with the Queensland University of Technology (“QUT”). For further information on QUT please refer

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PROJECT NEWS Australis Energy’s Western Eraring BESS Australia Offshore Windfarm submitted a referral for its proposed Eraring Battery Energy Storage Project granted Lead Agency System to the federal Department of Status Agriculture Water and Environment for public 2 June comment. Origin is seeking regulatory and Australis Energy Ltd (“Australis”) is pleased to environmental planning approval for the announce that its wholly owned Australian construction and operation of a grid-scale subsidiary, WA Offshore Windfarm Pty Ltd BESS with a discharge capacity of 700 MW (the “Company”), has been approved for Lead and storage capacity of 2,800 MWh at the Agency Service (Level 2) by the Western in Lake Macquarie, Australia Department of Jobs, Tourism, NSW. Ownerd and operated by Origin, the Science and Innovation (“JTSI”), for its WA Eraring Power Station is Australia’s largest Offshore Windfarm Project (“Project”). having a combined capacity of 2,880 MW. The proposed action would include: The lead agency (JTSI), in addition to - Constructing a grid connected BESS with application tracking and approvals discharge capacity of up to 700 MW and management, will appoint a project manager storage capacity of 2800 MWh able to to assist with proposal scoping, approval dispatch over variable durations from four planning and inter-agency coordination. The hours to beyond eight hours lead agency will monitor progress across the - Establishing High voltage (HV) and medium Western Australia Government and assist in voltage (MV) transformers and associated the identification and resolution of issues infrastructure impeding the approvals process. - Connecting the BESS to 330 kilovolts (kV) TransGrid switchyard by an approximate 400 The Project is currently in the pre-planning metre overhead 330 kV transmission line application stage. If approved, early - Installing safety protection systems and site construction work could begin in the ancillary facilities such as laydown areas and Australian summer 2024/25 and the Project site offices could be completed and operational in summer 2026/27. The proposed action's modular design provides significant deployment flexibility Following referral under the Environmental with the capacity to stage the 700 MW to Protection Act 1986 (“EP Act”) to the Western meet market needs. The construction of the Australia Environmental Protection Authority first stage of the BESS is expected to begin in (“EPA”) in April 2021, it has been determined 2021 and have a duration of 18 months, with that the Project should undergo a Public commercial operations possible at the end of Environmental Review (“PER”) comprising 2022 (subject to approval). The indicative preparation of an Environmental Review timeline for subsequent stages of the Document (“ERD”) that will be placed on proposed action include: public display for 6 weeks1. In addition, the - Stage 1 operational (230 MW and 920 MWh) Company has also submitted a referral under – target Q4 2022 as earliest date. the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity - Stage 2 operational (230 MW) – target Q2 Conservation Act 1999 (“EPBC Act”) to the 2024. Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, - Stage 3 operational (240 MW) – target Q4 Water and the Environment (“DAWE”)2. 2026. Assuming an assessment will be required under the EPBC Act, the next key milestone for the Project will be a bi-lateral agreement between the State and Federal authorities

Page 13 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) with respect to the Environmental Preferred battery storage Assessment for the Project and the preparation of an Environmental Scoping technology selected for Build Document (“ESD”), outlining the assessment Own Operate sites requirements. 3 June - Lithium-ion chosen as the favoured battery Following the preparation of the ESD, the PER storage technology for Build Own Operate process will commence and the ERD prepared. sites This will involve a comprehensive program of - Technology provides multiple advantages marine and landside surveys and wider and will enhance project revenue community and stakeholder engagement. - Objective to deliver initial portfolio of up to There will be a number of opportunities for 20 sites with aggregate capacity of 100MWac the public to provide feedback on the Project and an estimated value of $150+ million as part of the PER process. ahead of schedule - Purchase agreements for initial sites A separate planning approval will also be expected shortly required for the Project under the Western Australian Planning and Development Act MPower, Australia’s leading specialist 2005. renewable energy, battery storage and microgrid business, is pleased to advise that it Commenting on the news, Mark Petterson, has selected lithium-ion as the preferred Chairman of Australis said: battery storage technology for the Company’s “We are delighted to gain the lead agency planned portfolio of Build Own Operate (BOO) approval, with its associated recognition by sites. the WA Government that the Project will involve significant capital investment and The technology selection follows extensive employ a large number of people for an due diligence and reviews undertaken by extensive period of time. We look forward to MPower’s technical team into various energy working with JTSI and other government storage technologies. MPower has chosen departments as we progress the project lithium-ion battery technology because it through the environmental approvals process. provides the best form of electrical energy Subject to the necessary consents and permits storage available today and for the being obtained, the project will have a foreseeable future. It is proven technologically renewable electricity generation capacity of and commercially, evidenced in over 10GW of up to 300 MW, enough to power over 200,000 lithium-ion based large-scale battery projects WA homes. The electricity generated by the installed or under development globally. proposed offshore windfarm will support the WA Government’s target of net zero Lithium-ion batteries also have a decreasing emissions by 2050.” cost curve, a higher density than competing technologies and have a large operating 1 https://www.epa.wa.gov.au/proposals/wa- temperature range, which is advantageous offshore-windfarm-project given the location of a number of the 2 MPower’s BOO sites. http://epbcnotices.environment.gov.au/publi cnoticesreferrals/ MPower intends to augment its portfolio of 5MW solar projects with 5MW of DC-coupled Source: Australis Energy battery storage when doing so will enhance project returns. Adding energy storage capabilities will increase revenue by harbouring excess solar power generation, which would otherwise be lost due to

Page 14 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) network export limits. It also allows for solar Lion signs MOU with Wagner power export to be “time-shifted” to periods of higher spot market prices. MPower’s Corporation to pursue Green approach to solar farm design is to Hydrogen incorporate a higher DC capacity initially, so 3 June that revenue can be maximised through Key Highlights: increased power generation during the - MOU signed to explore opportunities in morning and afternoon periods and enhanced green hydrogen and related infrastructure at further with the subsequent augmentation of Wagner Corporation’s Wellcamp Business battery storage. Park and Pinkenba Wharf locations - Wagner Corporation is an Australian MPower has successfully delivered more than property and infrastructure developer, 10MWh of battery storage projects for investor and asset manager customers and will leverage its in-house expertise for its own battery storage strategy. Lion Energy Limited (“Lion” or “Company”; The Company continues to progress its initial ASX: LIO) is pleased to announce the portfolio of up to 20 5MW sites with an execution of a Memorandum of estimated value of over $150 million. Binding Understanding between Wagner Corporation purchase agreements for the first sites are Pty Ltd (“Wagner Corporation”) and Lion to expected in the coming weeks. explore opportunities in the development of green hydrogen facilities and related Chief Executive Officer Nathan Wise said: infrastructure at Wagner Corporation’s “The selection of lithium-ion battery storage Wellcamp Business Park and Pinkenba Wharf technology for our Build Own Operate sites locations . follows considerable consultation with suppliers, industry bodies and our internal Wagner Corporation is an Australian property team. and infrastructure development, investment and asset management company and is the “Our Build Own Operate solar projects are proprietor of the Toowoomba Wellcamp designed to be battery-ready, which will allow Airport and adjacent Wellcamp Business Park seamless technology integration and in Queensland, some 130kms west of enhanced project returns. Project sizing is also , Australia. For more information on being maximised to take into account future Wagner Corporation, please refer battery storage capabilities and benefits. www.wagnercorporation.com.au.

“To firm up the portfolio pipeline, we are The parties wish to explore opportunities for actively pursuing binding purchase the potential collaboration in the agreements for the first sites. We expect development of green hydrogen production these to materialise in the coming weeks.” facilities and infrastructure at Wagner Corporation’s Wellcamp Business Park, and/or Source: MPower the Pinkenba Wharf in Brisbane.

Mr Tom Soulsby, Lion’s Executive Chairman, said “we welcome the opportunity to explore green hydrogen opportunities with Wagner Corporation at the Wellcamp Business Park, and/or the Pinkenba Wharf in Brisbane. We re-emphasise the criticality of focusing our efforts at the intersection of renewable electricity and water resources, hydrogen markets and technology. We see relationships

Page 15 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) with groups with access to ports, airports, Term of the rate of return electricity grids, logistics hubs, highways, gas 9 to 11:30 am (AEST) on Tuesday, 15 June pipelines and new rail projects as key success 2021 factors.” Rate of return and cashflows in a low interest rate environment The signing of the MOU forms part of "Stage 2 to 4:30 pm (AEST) on Wednesday, 23 June 2" of Lion's Hydrogen Strategy as announced 2021 on 7 May 2021. The Company cautions that there can be no certainty that a suitable Enquiries about these forums, or about hydrogen opportunity will be identified. lodging submissions to the working papers, Further, there can be no certainty that any can be directed to the Network Pricing branch conditions precedent to progressing such an (03) 9290 1800. opportunity (including, without limitation, compliance with ASX Listing Rules 11.1.2 Source: AER and/or 11.1.3 to the extent applicable) will be satisfied.

The MOU is non-binding insofar as it does not Woolworths Group invests in oblige either party to proceed with any potential opportunity. The MOU is for an power purchase agreement initial term of two years but may be with NSW wind farm on road terminated by either party on one month's written notice. to 100 per cent green electricity by 2025 Source: Lion Energy 3 June Woolworths Group has made its first renewable power purchase agreement (PPA) with a new-build NSW wind farm to inject Registrations open for Rate of 195,000 Megawatt hours of green electricity into the state’s energy grid annually. Return online forum The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has From January 2022, the PPA will cover around published two draft working papers on 30 per cent of Woolworths Group’s NSW the Term of the rate of return and the Rate of energy needs with the electricity required to return and cashflows in a low interest rate power 108 supermarkets, avoiding almost environment as part of our pathway to the 158,000 tonnes of carbon emissions each 2022 Rate of Return. We are now seeking year. This is the equivalent to the yearly submissions from interested stakeholders by energy needs of 34,000 homes1 (or all the 2 July 2021. homes in the Blue Mountains Local Government Area2) and adds to the group’s For each draft working paper, the AER will existing network of rooftop solar panels at host an online forum to allow the opportunity around 140 locations nationally. for stakeholders to share views and ask questions about the matters raised in these Woolworths has partnered with CWP working papers. Renewables on a 10-year agreement to purchase power generated by the new Bango Online forums wind farm outside Yass, supporting regional To register your interest in participating in investment and jobs. one or both of these online forums, please email [email protected] indicating As the Woolworths Group transitions to 100 which you would like to attend. per cent renewable electricity by 2025 - on its

Page 16 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) path to becoming net carbon positive by 2050 NSW Energy Minister, Matt Kean said he was - it is prioritising investment in a number of pleased to see more companies and initiatives, including new developments like businesses enthusiastically entering the the Bango wind farm, which is currently under renewable energy market in NSW. construction. The Minister said: “This is great news and Woolworths Group Director of Format, Rob further proof that the NSW electricity McCartney said: “We know the steps we take infrastructure roadmap is providing the to become a more sustainable business today certainty to businesses and energy market will help create a better tomorrow for investors to make financial decisions that will generations to come. help power our state into the future.

“Going beyond net carbon neutral, we’ve “I am fully supportive of all energy market committed to take more carbon out of the investment in NSW, but this partnership and atmosphere than we produce by 2050 and our agreement is particularly significant because it first renewable power purchase is a key is prioritising the building of new milestone in that pursuit. infrastructure, providing for local jobs and investment and helping us grow our “Supermarkets are particularly energy renewable energy base.” intensive to run and we want to use our scale for good by supporting the transition to Woolworths Group accounts for around one renewable electricity. per cent of Australia’s total energy use, representing a significant influx of green “To spur the growth of the industry, we’re electricity to the national grid as it converts to prioritising renewable energy from new build renewable sources by 2025. projects like the Bango wind farm, which also demonstrates the potential of green energy to The business will continue to explore deliver investment and jobs to regional opportunities to invest in power purchases areas.” from renewable projects directly. It will also look to partner with energy retailers on supply Woolworths Group’s PPA will support more contracts which draw on new build renewable than 100 jobs in construction and operation of projects to accelerate the availability and the Bango wind farm. The Bango project will affordability of green energy, providing more pay annual rents to local landholders whose choice to Australian households. properties host wind turbines and CWP Renewables will establish a $14 million fund The transition to renewable energy will for community projects. support Woolworths Group’s progress towards its carbon reduction target of 63 per CWP Renewables CEO, Jason Willoughby said: cent by 2030. It is the first Australian retail “Woolworths is not only buying renewable target to be endorsed by the UN-backed energy from Bango Wind Farm, they are also Science-Based Targets Initiative in line with supporting regional NSW and reducing the business’s contribution to limiting climate greenhouse gases emission. change to 1.5 degrees.

“With Woolworths’ decision, CWP Since 2015, Woolworths Group has reduced Renewables is developing both stages of the its carbon emissions by around 25 per cent approved Bango wind farm and will be through a range of energy efficiency initiatives generating renewable energy for Woolworths including LED light conversion and from the start of next year.” refrigeration optimisation, including the introduction of natural refrigerant gases. Woolworths monitors its energy consumption

Page 17 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) across supermarkets through an Energy volatility in the global energy landscape in the Management Centre that tracks electricity use last year. in real-time, pinpointing peaks and patterns to support energy reducing interventions, Adam Pegg, Country Manager – Lightsource cutting consumption for some stores by up to bp Australia, said: “Although COVID-19 has 10 per cent. disrupted the energy landscape, we are proud to be able to start construction and complete 1 Australian Energy Regulator (AER) Annual the financing of two large solar projects on a Retail Markets Report 2019-20. subsidy-free basis, demonstrating the 2 Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2016 Census resilience of solar as a sustainable solution to data. meeting the rising global energy demands. With 520MWdc under construction and more Source: Woolworths than 1.5GWdc in the pipeline, these investments now establish Lightsource bp as a leader in the Australian solar market and we welcome the support of ING, EDC, $330m secured for two and Intesa Sanpaolo.”

Australian projects Combined, West Wyalong and Woolooga will 3 June produce approximately 673GWh of renewable Lightsource bp Australia secures A$330m electricity a year. That’s enough to power financing package and begins construction on nearly 100,000 Australian homes and cut its second and third solar projects carbon emissions by 540,000MT tonnes – the equivalent of taking around 225,000 fuel- - Lightsource bp completes A$330m financing, burning cars off the road. reaching financial close on its 107MWdc West Wyalong and 214MWdc Woolooga solar Construction by PCL on both projects has farms commenced under an early works agreement - Lightsource bp is extending its relationship with full notice to proceed now issued and with EDC, ING and Intesa Sanpaolo and adding commercial operations are expected mid- Westpac to its list of global lenders 2022. - PCL Constructors Pacific Rim Pty Ltd (PCL’s Australia operations) now issued full notice to Together with our Wellington solar hub, the proceed on both projects to be completed West Wyalong and Woolooga projects mid-2022 contribute to Lightsource bp’s pipeline of - West Wyalong and Woolooga bring more than 1.5GWdc – making Lightsource bp Lightsource bp’s projects under construction one of the largest solar developers to own to more than 500MWdc in just under three and operate in Australia once its sites are years. operational.

Lightsource bp, a global leader in the States’ net zero ambitions offer supportive development and management of solar financing environment for renewables energy projects, has successfully closed on a Queensland’s ambition to have 50 percent of A$330 million financing package and begun energy generation from renewable sources by construction on its West Wyalong and 2030 and New South Wales’ pledge to Woolooga solar projects located in New South construct 12GW of clean energy over the next Wales and Queensland. ten years unleashes a great deal of private investment opportunities in Australia’s Financing for the projects was secured from renewables sector. EDC, ING, Intesa Sanpaolo and Westpac demonstrating solar’s resilience amidst the

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Guillermo Freire, Head of Structured and New AEMC rule to increase Project Finance at EDC, said: “EDC is delighted to be a part of this transaction in support of transparency of emerging PCL, which is at the forefront of the power system security risks renewable energy and cleantech sectors. 3 June Supporting Canadian companies like PCL plays The AEMC is changing the way the market a crucial role in the global transition to a operator and network service providers assess lower carbon and climate-resilient economy. the kind of risks that could lead to cascading This transaction will further help solidify outages or major supply disruptions in the Lightsource bp’s position as a leading power system. renewable energy developer in Australia, and globally.” A new rule announced today will better identify emerging risks to power system Michiel de Haan, Global Head of Energy at ING security. It follows a request from the former Bank, said: “The financing of Woolooga and COAG Energy Council energy ministers to West Wyalong solar farms adds to a series of change the rules in the wake of the AEMC’s transactions we have executed for Lightsource 2019 Review into the black system event in bp delivering on our commitment to support South Australia. renewable initiatives and decarbonisation efforts. This transaction reinforces our leading “System security is a priority area for the track record in the Australian renewables Commission and this new rule gives us an market and strengthens our resolve as we extra tool in the toolkit to identify and seek to further elevate our relationship with consider the risk of unforeseen events,” said this globally important client.” AEMC Chair Anna Collyer.

Nicola Doninelli, Head of the International “Promptly identifying and assessing risks to Department within the IMI Corporate & the security of energy supply can also reduce Investment Banking Division of Intesa both direct and indirect costs to consumers. Sanpaolo, said: “We are delighted to cooperate with a leading global company like “This new rule will increase the transparency Lightsource bp. Intesa Sanpaolo Group of emerging system security risks that may considers its presence in the Asia-Pacific need to be managed, helping AEMO, network region as strategic. Australia is especially service providers and other market important and a key market for our bank, participants better understand the nature of given the infrastructural projects that are new risks and monitor them over time. This is already in place.” particularly important as the energy market transitions to a different future with a Anthony Miller, CEO – Westpac Institutional changing generation mix.” Bank, said: “It is fantastic to support Lightsource bp in these two large scale solar The rule introduces a new, more holistic, projects in NSW and QLD. Solar will play a general power system risk review (GPSRR). significant role in Australia’s energy transition This annual review will replace the existing and Westpac is looking forward to working power system frequency risk review (PSFRR) with Lightsource bp in the pursuit of that which currently occurs about once every two goal.” years.

Lightsource bp was advised on the projects by As well as occurring more frequently the new Macquarie Capital and King & Wood review will have an increased scope, looking Mallesons. at a wider set of risks beyond frequency risks. However, the new approach is not intended Source: Lightsource BP to be a detailed assessment of all potential

Page 19 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) risks. Instead, AEMO and network service Visit the project page for more information providers will collaborate on a high-level view and contact details. of risk arrangements over time. Source: AEMC “A key element of the new review is the requirement for providers to collaborate with AEMO and ensure the operator has the information it needs to conduct these risk Registrations of interest open reviews,” Ms Collyer said. for Australia's largest REZ “As well as monitoring risks over time, the 3 June new approach will help AEMO and network The New England Renewable Energy Zone service providers improve their capacity to (REZ) is one step closer to completion today, identify, understand and consider ways to with the registrations of interest (ROI) process mitigate against those risks. Working together open to interested energy infrastructure more often raises the profile of risk projects. identification across an already highly-aware industry.” Energy and Environment Minister, Matt Kean said the NSW Government has committed One more power system frequency risk $78.9 million to support the development of review will be completed in this transition the New England REZ which is set to become period, with the first of the new reviews to be Australia's largest. delivered by mid-2023. "The New England REZ is a fundamental part The process of considering the new review of our Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap and was extended earlier this year to provide we expect it will deliver up to 8,000 enough time to respond to a number of megawatts of new capacity, $10.7 billion in complex issues that arose out of AEMO’s private investment, around 830 operational submission to the draft determination. jobs and 1250 construction jobs to the local economy," Mr Kean said. In making its final determination, the Commission consulted with interested "Now is the time for all energy infrastructure stakeholders to address both the design of proponents to register their interest as we the general power system risk review and take the first vital steps to deliver the New some issues relating to additional network England Renewable Energy Zone." service provider obligations. The ROI will provide vital information for the The Commission’s final decision incorporates planning of the REZ including the estimated feedback from a workshop held on 27 April investment value, location and types of 2021 to address these matters as well as projects looking to connect. further informal consultation. Member for Northern Tablelands, Adam There were several small changes resulting Marshall said New England has some of the from the additional consultation activity. best natural energy resources in the country. These changes balanced AEMO’s information requirements for the GPSRR with a potential "The ROI will help ensure the design and increase in effort over the previous PSFRR. delivery of the REZ reflects the unique The final outcome also better connects the features of our region, and protects our GPSRR into existing planning processes. precious local assets, such as our highly productive agricultural land," Mr Marshall said.

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The New England REZ is a fundamental part of The local context the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap. The site in question is near the small town of The Roadmap is expected to deliver Cohuna in Gannawarra Shire in the state of $32 billion in private investment, 6300 Victoria. It’s about 270 kilometres north of construction and 2800 ongoing jobs, mostly in Melbourne and in a rural area. The regional NSW. photovoltaic plant, which covers 82 hectares and which will have a capacity 34 megawatts, The call for registrations of interest in the is still in the construction phase and is New England REZ will close on Friday 16 July therefore ideal for the development of a 2021. For more information on the New feasible agrivoltaic project. England REZ and the ROI go to: Renewable Energy Zones EGP is working closely with Agriculture Victoria, the State Agriculture Department, as Source: NSW Government part of the work it is undertaking under the State Agriculture Energy Investment Plan.

Miriam Di Blasi, EGP’s Head of Environment Agrivoltaics at Cohuna: making and Impacts Mitigation - Innovation, reports that various members of the Agriculture the best use of Australia’s land Victoria team visited the Cohuna site at the and sun start of April. This marked the beginning of the first phase in the research project, a 12- 3 June month “massive monitoring and data- Our global experimental program, which gathering” process covering a range of climate began in January in Europe, continues at the and agricultural questions. This data will be Cohuna photovoltaic plant, in the Australian used in biophysical models in order to state of Victoria. Here, an innovation project establish the best plants for the conditions in partnership with the State Department of and sustainable agriculture production. This Agriculture will establish which are the best phase is due to be completed in May 2022. pastoral farming plants that can coexist with Enel and Agriculture Victoria will use phase solar panels, in order to combine energy one findings to co-design phase two which efficiency and sustainable use of land. could include these findings being

implemented in the design and layout. Agrivoltaics, which can be defined as the simultaneous and mutually beneficial use of “The collaboration started with Agricolture the same land for agriculture and solar Victoria is an example of our open innovation photovoltaic energy, is becoming an approach. Through the design and increasingly important activity for Enel Green demonstration of new integration concepts of Power. By taking advantage of the Open agriculture with ground mounted PV, we will Innovability® approach, which aims to seek work together to make PV plants even out the best ideas and resources also outside greener and more sustainable, creating of the company, EGP has entered into a shared value with farmers and communities number of partnerships in Europe, particularly operating around our plants”. in Spain, Greece and Italy, and is now Nicola Rossi, Head of Innovation - Enel Green developing an exciting project in Australia. Power The country, which is blessed with vast quantities of both land and sunshine, is “We’re immensely proud to partner with perfect for the production of solar energy, Agriculture Victoria for this innovative and and is considered strategic for the company. industry-leading agrivoltaic project at our

Cohuna Solar Farm site. We recognise their

outstanding multi-disciplinary science

Page 21 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) approach via an innovation ecosystem that brings together government, industry, agribusiness and academia. This approach aligns with Enel Green Power’s focus of creating shared value opportunities in the communities where we operate. We’re proactively working with our local stakeholders to explore how we can contribute to building adaptive and resilient agricultural systems through diversified and sustainable use of land at our project sites”. Werther Esposito, Head of Australia - Enel Green Power

Source: Enel Green Power

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