Project Update Week ending 17 August 2018

Bruny Island battery trial wins Engineering Excellence Award 10 August The CONSORT Bruny Island Battery Trial has coordinated battery discharges at the exact won the Engineers Tasmanian times when the undersea cable supplying the Engineering Excellence Award, held in Hobart, island was in danger of overloading. Despite and now reaches the final of the 2018 there being only 32 participating households, Australian Engineering Excellence Awards this precisely targeted power injection was (AEEA), which will be announced in enough to prevent a diesel start during at September 2018. least one major network peak. It was also able to reduce diesel consumption by the The AEEA awards recognise outstanding maximum possible degree during other peaks. achievement in engineering and the invaluable contribution engineering makes to Trial participants are provided with a subsidy the economy, community and the to purchase home energy systems that environment. The project was previously include solar PV and a battery, and a Reposit awarded EESA’s Energy Project of the year Power home energy management system. and the Clean Energy Council’s Business During normal operation, the Reposit system Community Engagement Award in 2018. controls the battery to minimise power bills. During peak periods, the NAC software talks The award coincides with the CONSORT to each Reposit system to incentivise the project passing another important milestone, battery to support the network. in demonstrating how smart coordination of home battery systems can help to support Participants earn extra payments for electricity networks, while rewarding battery providing this support. Sydney University is owners for this support. using the trial to study the economics of how battery owners can be fairly rewarded for the The trial, based on Bruny Island, Tasmania, fact that their battery is available for was able to prevent project partner providing support, based on the potential TasNetworks from having to start their usefulness of this availability. backup diesel generator during a major network peak. The trial is providing a wealth of data about the attitudes and responses of trial This was made possible by the project’s participants to this new and innovative Network Aware Coordination (NAC) software, technology. This social research is being developed by project partner The Australian carried out by project partner the University National University, which was run of Tasmania, which is also involved in the continuously over two weeks during the engineering, strategic vision and project recent Tasmanian July school holidays. The management aspects of the trial. software was able to plan ahead to provide

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The Australian National University’s NAC economic competitiveness and strengthening software, which coordinates the batteries, the reliability of our energy system. was recently launched following its successful deployment during the Easter long-weekend. In addition to the National Energy Guarantee, Since then, it has helped to support the Bruny the COAG Energy Council meeting today Island network during the Queen’s Birthday advanced important issues around long weekend and July school holidays. transmission and the integrated system plan, cybersecurity for our energy infrastructure, The Australian Government, through the new hydrogen opportunities and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency(ARENA), implementation of the Australian Competition is providing $2.9 million towards the and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) landmark CONSORT project under its Research and report into retail electricity pricing. Development Program. The CONSORT Bruny Island Battery Trial is an ARENA funded Today’s meeting was an important step project. forward in advancing the Turnbull Government’s plan for a more affordable and Source: Australian National University reliable energy system.

Source: Federal Government The National Energy

Guarantee is one step closer COAG Energy Council meeting 10 August Commonwealth, state and territory energy communique ministers have moved one step closer to 10 August implementing the National Energy Guarantee The National Energy Guarantee at a meeting in Sydney today. Dr Kerry Schott AO, and Ms Clare Savage, Chair and Deputy Chair of the Independent Ministers agreed to release the exposure draft Energy Security Board (ESB), presented the of the National Electricity Law amendments ESB’s final detailed design proposal for the that will implement the Guarantee, following National Energy Guarantee (Guarantee). a COAG Energy Council teleconference on 14 August and the passage of federal legislation The Council noted the detailed work the ESB through the Coalition Party Room. has undertaken on the final design of the Guarantee and appreciate the extensive In the words of Energy Security Board Chair, consultation with, and support from, Dr Kerry Schott, today’s agreement is a “great stakeholders. step forward”. Ministers reiterated the importance of The Guarantee is designed by the experts, effectively integrating energy and climate backed by industry, business and consumer policy with the Commonwealth, state and groups and supported by independent territory governments working together to modelling which shows the average deliver more affordable, reliable and cleaner household will be $550 a year better off under power. the National Energy Guarantee and existing policies underway. Ministers agreed to the release of the exposure draft of the National Electricity Law The National Energy Guarantee is in the amendments that would implement the national interest because it will deliver the Guarantee following confirmation at a Council investment certainty the sector needs, while teleconference on 14 August. lowering power bills, enhancing Australia’s

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Minsters noted that prior to this Transmission Planning and Interconnection teleconference, Ministers will be provided Ms Audrey Zibelman, Chief Executive Officer, with the draft Commonwealth legislation after AEMO, briefed Ministers on their Integrated it has been endorsed by the Coalition party System Plan (ISP), a key recommendation of room. the Finkel Review.

At the request of the South Australian The ISP provides an outlook to 2040 on the Minister, Ministers acknowledged the concern future needs of the National Electricity that a reliability gap could emerge at any time Market (NEM), including recommended across the 10 year forecast period. Council transmission investments that will deliver asked ESB to consult on legislative options for secure, reliable and affordable energy as our addressing this issue. generation mix transitions.

The ESB and Commonwealth papers on the Council requested that the ESB report to the detailed design are available on the COAG December 2018 meeting on how the Group 1 Energy Council website. projects identified in the ISP can be implemented and delivered as soon as ACCC’s Retail Electricity Pricing Inquiry practicable and with efficient outcomes for Mr Rod Sims, Chair, Australian Competition customers. The ESB will also report on how and Consumer Commission, briefed Council the Group 2 projects will be reviewed and on the ACCC’s Retail Electricity Pricing Inquiry progressed. Any modifications that may be and updated Council on the ACCC’s Gas needed to existing processes for these Inquiry 2017-2020. projects to be delivered should be clearly identified and a way forward recommended. Council welcomed the ACCC’s Retail Electricity Pricing Inquiry final report, which was publicly Ministers also asked that in addition to the released on 11 July 2018. This report is an consultation on the current ISP that is important contribution to improving underway, the ESB should identify a work competitive outcomes for households and program (including possible changes to the businesses. It recommends action on a broad RIT-T) and convert the ISP to an actionable range of fronts falling across state and strategic plan. The ESB Chair should take the territory, Commonwealth and cross- lead on its delivery and report back to the jurisdictional issues. December 2018 meeting. Council notes that all market bodies will be closely involved in Ministers agreed to act quickly by progressing this work. an initial set of 16 cross-jurisdictional recommendations from the Report, including Council will consider all of these matters at recommendations to reduce the time it takes the December 2018 meeting. for consumers to switch retailers, ensure consumers get the information they need Hydrogen update before their contract ends and fast tracking Dr Alan Finkel, AO, Chief Scientist, briefed consideration of strengthening of penalties Council about the potential role of hydrogen and AER’s investigative powers. in the domestic economy and export markets for Australia. Council noted the investment Ministers agreed to a program of work to and job opportunities that hydrogen offers in consider the remaining 23 recommendations regions across the country. Council agreed the that are COAG Energy Council’s responsibility. Chief Scientist, in close consultation with The Council will consult on these officials, will bring back a proposal for the recommendations as appropriate to ensure development of a national hydrogen strategy close cooperation on delivering results for to the December 2018 meeting. consumers.

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Cyber security update “South Australia has been working closely Ms Audrey Zibelman provided an update on with both the Federal Government and the AEMO’s work, through the cyber security New South Wales Government on this nation- uplift program, to develop a national energy building project. cyber security framework as recommended in the Finkel Review. The cyber security uplift “Recent reports by ElectraNet and the program in an important and timely piece of Australian Energy Market Operator have work given the growing need to defend strongly endorsed interconnection between against evolving cyber threats facing Australia. South Australia and New South Wales, putting the annual savings to households at $30 per Gas Supply annum. Ministers noted the Gas Supply Strategy (GSS) Review Steering Committee’s report and “The State Liberal Government wants to kick accepted the recommendations. Ministers start this vital infrastructure project to ensure have requested officials to refine the GSS the people of South Australia enjoy the Implementation Plan by the end 2018, and cheaper and more reliable power as soon as agreed that the cross-jurisdictional steering possible.” committee continue in order to refine and coordinate implementation of the Plan until The early works package could include: the end of 2020. Ministers also agreed to • Immediate commencement of detailed line release the fourth GSS Implementation route and site selection works; Progress Report which provides an overview • Co-ordinated planning approvals across the of implementation efforts during the period 1 nation; November 2017 to 30 June 2018. • Immediate commencement of environmental and social studies required for Ministers agreed to publish Noetic Group’s planning approval; and final report on the review of petroleum • A community engagement strategy licensing regulations. The Council will further including consultation. consider progress of the recommendations in 2019. “The Marshall Government proposed an interconnector between South Australia and Source: COAG New South Wales in our comprehensive energy policy released in October last year and endorsed by the voting public at the $14 million to spark electricity March election,” said Minister for Energy and Mining Dan van Holst Pellekaan. interconnector 11 August “An interconnector to New South Wales The Marshall Liberal Government will invest closes the loop on South Australia’s up to $14 million to accelerate early works on connection to the national electricity market construction of an interconnector between bringing cheaper power and greater export South Australia and New South Wales that will opportunities for our renewable energy lower electricity prices in both states. generators.

“An interconnector between South Australia “South Australia currently only has and New South Wales will enable the export interconnection with Victoria which puts us at of our abundant renewable energy resources the end of the line and vulnerable to the type across the border whilst delivering more system failure that occurred in the state-wide reliable and affordable electricity to both blackout.” states,” said Premier Steven Marshall. Source: SA Government

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Specialist new energy expert and the Horizon Power Board on a range of significant issues. The project was joint winner to advance V-KOR battery of the Clean Energy Council Innovation Award, development & and winner of the Australian Utility Innovation Awards - Customer Engagement Award. commercialisation 13 August Mr Davis holds a master’s degree in • Scott Davis to advise Protean on its battery renewable energy from Murdoch University, development and commercialisation program an engineering degree from University of • Mr Davis led the introduction of a location NSW, and has been an innovator in the based renewable energy buyback tariff for commercialisation of renewable energy regional Western Australia together with the technologies and development of new energy introduction of generation management products. He has extensive experience in requirements for solar and batteries – a 1st working with industry and key stakeholders in for Australia creating projects that integrate renewable • Mr Davis led innovation in the design of energy technologies into power systems and power purchase agreements to facilitate edge of grid environments. significant cost reductions, balance sheet benefits, and more effective management of Protean is particularly pleased to have customer demand and renewable energy secured Mr Davis’s experience in product integration development and innovation. His unique • 20+ years’ experience across the electricity skills, experience and professional and resource sectors in Australia, Canada, relationships will add vital impetus, credibility Southeast Asia and the Solomon Islands and know-how to the Company’s battery • Mr Davis led an innovative project that was technology commercialisation strategy. awarded joint winner of 2017 Clean Energy Council Innovation Award Mr Davis said, “I am delighted to be teaming up with Protean to help drive the Protean Energy Ltd (Protean or the Company) development and commercialisation program is pleased to advise that Mr Scott Davis has for the vanadium flow battery technology. I been engaged to help accelerate the believe that flow batteries will play an Company’s battery development and important role in the new energy mix, and commercialisation program. that Protean have a real opportunity to deliver a unique battery product to the Mr Davis is an energy industry expert with market”. significant experience in product development, sales and marketing and market Source: Protean Energy reform roles in the electricity sector. Mr Davis has a particular depth of expertise in energy systems modelling, electricity pricing and PROJECT NEWS integration of renewable energy into isolated power systems. Kidston Solar Farm Stage 2 Genex Power’s 270 MW Kidston Solar Farm While with Horizon Power (Western Stage 2, near Georgetown in northern Australia’s largest regional electricity , was declared a controlled action supplier), Mr Davis led a program of work to by the federal Department of the respond to the impact of new technology and Environment & Energy and so will need to be business models on the electricity value chain. assessed under the EPBC Act. The relevant As Project Director, Mr Davis engaged with controlling provisions are “listed threatened customers, industry bodies, State Treasury species and communities”. and the Public Utilities Office to provide strategic insights to the Minister for Energy

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Collinsville Solar Project starts Security Services from Bowen, and Pyro Dynamics from Proserpine. to power up 13 August “All eight major contracts listed on the Things are starting to power up at the 42.5 Industry Capability Network were awarded to megawatt (MW) Collinsville Solar Photovoltaic suppliers in the region (PV) Project. which is well known for the depth of industrial capabilities and skills,” he said. Ahead of the $100 million project achieving full commercial operation in September, the “The project’s success has a lot to do with all first batch of solar panels have been switched the hard work invested by local contractors on as part of a staged testing and and suppliers, many of whom have been with commissioning process being conducted by us from the start,” he said. project developers Ratch Australia Corporation. Hillery Group General Manager Mr Luke Hillery said he was pleased to have been Ratch EGM Business Development, Mr involved in the project. Anthony Yeates, said the testing announced the “electrification” of the Collinsville project “We’ve been responsible for the bulk which is located next to the decommissioned earthworks and civil construction of the road Collinsville coal-fired power station. It follows network as well as the supply of quarry the installation of 164,000 PV solar panels and products and sand,” Mr Hillery said. more than 550km of cabling, the completion of the site’s control room and meteorological “During peak times we had up to 15 heavy station, and the refurbishment of the site’s machines on site with operators. Things had substation which is now energised and will been a little slow up until the start of the connect the project’s power to the national project so it’s been a good shot in the arm for electricity grid. the company and the local area.

“First generation is a meaningful milestone as “To see it all come together has given our we’re now generating and exporting team a great sense of achievement,” he said. electricity to the grid. We’ll be ramping up the amount of generation as the project reaches The solar farm will deliver in the order of completion point next month,” Mr Yeates 130,000 MW hours of renewable energy, said. which is predicted to meet the annual needs of approximately 15,000 Whitsunday homes “The project showcases how old coal-fired over a 20-year period. generation sites can be repurposed as new renewable energy bases, benefiting from Ratch owns and operates several renewable existing infrastructure, while helping to energy projects in Australia including the 180 transform Australia’s energy mix.” MW Mount Emerald near Mareeba which is due for completion in A fleet of excavators, bulldozers, graders, November. cranes, trucks and trenchers have taken just over a year to transform the 80-hectare site. Source: Ratch Australia

Mr Yeates said most of the work shirts and heavy machines on site sport the names of local businesses including Beauchamp Excavating from Collinsville, Hillery Group, S&W Crane Hire, and Australian Indigenous

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Green Investment Group acquisition underscores our ambition for the Green Investment Group to advance its position acquires Conergy solar team as a world leading developer and investor in and portfolio green energy projects in Asia and globally - across 14 August offshore wind, onshore wind, solar, waste to • Acquisition of Conergy portfolio creates a energy, battery storage and energy efficiency. I’m new global solar development platform, delighted to welcome the Conergy team to GIG.” complementing GIG’s existing expertise in wind, waste-from-energy and disruptive green Alexander Lenz, CEO of Conergy, said: energy technologies “Conergy has had extensive solar experience • GIG’s first acquisition in Asia will see 88 in the Asia Pacific market and our employees solar experts join the team, with a track have a strong reputation in the region. Given record of developing over 500MW of solar Macquarie’s green investment credentials and projects across Asia Pacific activity in the sector, we are excited to join Macquarie and leverage our capabilities to Green Investment Group (GIG), Macquarie help accelerate Macquarie’s aspirations in Capital’s global green investment platform, solar.” today announced the acquisition of a significant solar development portfolio from Marc Lohoff, COO of Conergy, said, “Conergy Conergy Asia & ME (“Conergy”). The portfolio has long been viewed as a leader in the includes solar development assets in the Asia development, construction and operation of Pacific region, commercial, technical and solar projects and over time our team has energy storage capabilities, and an asset been involved in the installation of 2GW of monitoring centre. capacity globally. We see our team as a natural fit with Macquarie and its GIG As part of the acquisition, Conergy employees platform.” located in Singapore, Australia, Japan, Germany and the Philippines will join GIG, As GIG reaches its one year anniversary under adding a team of 88 professionals with Macquarie’s ownership, the business has extensive experience in developing over expanded in scope and scale, and is now one of 500MW of solar energy projects across Asia the world’s leading green energy investors. GIG is Pacific, and a total of 2GW globally. The a global business with teams located in Asia, acquisition increases GIG’s global team to Europe and the Americas, specialising in activities over 300 people and reinforces Asia as a ranging from early stage development through to centre of excellence for GIG and Macquarie’s construction, and operations in all major global solar platform. renewable technologies.

Neil Arora, Head of Macquarie Capital for Asia Since 2010 the combined Macquarie and GIG and the Middle East said: “We are pleased to businesses have invested or arranged over enhance our solar energy capabilities from £15bn in over 200 projects across 20 development through to design, engineering, countries. The team is currently developing a procurement and delivery management, to build pipeline of over 7GW of renewable energy on Macquarie Capital’s solar energy track record projects, with a number of projects achieving across Asia Pacific. Today’s acquisition will also financial close in recent weeks - including the further strengthen our battery storage expertise 128MW Formosa offshore wind farm in and allow us to pursue other investment Taiwan, the 200MW Canadian Breaks onshore opportunities in a rapidly-growing region for the wind farm in Texas and a 235MW onshore renewables sector.” wind farm in Vasternorrland, central Sweden.

Daniel Wong, Global Co-Head of Infrastructure Source: Macquarie and Energy for Macquarie Capital, said: “This

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Infigen invests in Battery SA Minister for Energy Dan van Holst Pellekaan welcomed Infigen’s investment. Energy Storage System 15 August “The Marshall Government are strong Infigen Energy (IFN:ASX) today announces its supporters of increasing battery storage to investment in a 25 MW / 52 MWh Battery harness the full potential of South Australia’s Energy Storage System (BESS) in South abundant renewable energy and the lower Australia, using Tesla Powerpack technology. prices that will be delivered to households and businesses,” said Mr van Holst Pellekaan. Construction activities are expected to commence in the coming weeks. Infigen has Mr Ross Rolfe, said, “Infigen’s strategy is to entered into funding agreements with the supply clean energy to our customers and South Australian (SA) Government and the participate in growth opportunities in the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) NEM. Our investment in the BESS to co-fund the approximately $38 million demonstrates our continued solid progress in development. The SA Government and ARENA delivering on our strategy. We are delighted have each committed $5 million in grant to be able to work with global technology funding ($10 million in total). leader Tesla, ARENA and the South Australian Government to contribute to improved The BESS will be located adjacent to the 278.5 energy security and reliability of supply for MW and will be South Australian energy consumers.” connected to the National Electricity Market (NEM) via the Mayurra substation owned by Source: Infigen Energy ElectraNet.

The BESS enables Infigen to firm at least an NEW PROJECT additional 18 MW of power depending on the customer load profile. Yanco Solar Farm Location: Leeton, NSW Mr Ross Rolfe, Chief Executive Office of Capacity: 60 MW Infigen, said, “With the firming capability of Developer: ib vogt the BESS Infigen will be able to expand its LGA: Leeton supply contracts from the Lake Bonney Wind Estimated cost: $100mil Farm to additional commercial and industrial Employment: 120 construction & 2 customers in South Australia, which is at the operational jobs heart of our business strategy.” Description: Application made for a solar plant including solar arrays, a substation, an The operational benefits of the BESS are: energy storage facility and transmission line 1. Firming Infigen’s SA portfolio: access to occupying around 204 hectares of rural land. energy storage allows Infigen to enter into The proposal would include single axis solar additional energy supply contracts with arrays, inverters, transformers, energy commercial and industrial customers. storage units, a substation, underground 2. System security in the NEM: the BESS can cabling, a 33kv transmission line to connect to supply ancillary services ensuring increased Yanco substation and associated security and quality of supply and fast infrastructure. response services as required. Contact: Jennifer Walsh 3. Policy considerations: adding battery Ib vogt energy storage capability to the SA market is Email: [email protected] consistent with the objectives of energy policy, including the proposed National Energy Guarantee.

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Infratil and Mercury to make corporate debt and a significant equity raising (representing approximately 45% of Tilt full takeover offer for Tilt Renewables' current equity value.1 Renewables 15 August Infratil and Mercury's offer provides Infratil Limited (through its subsidiary Infratil shareholders with the opportunity to sell their 2018 Limited) ("Infratil") and Mercury NZ Tilt Renewables shares at an attractive price. Limited ("Mercury") have today announced Alternatively, in the event of a successful their intention to make a full takeover offer Dundonnell bid outcome, shareholders will be for Tilt Renewables Limited ("Tilt required to contribute a significant amount of Renewables"). Infratil and Mercury already new equity relative to their existing respectively hold or control 51.04% and shareholding or be diluted in an equity raising. 19.99% of the Tilt Renewables shares. Infratil believes Tilt Renewables is well The offer price of NZ$2.30 represents a 24.3% positioned to continue executing on its strong premium to the closing share price of Tilt and diverse development pipeline. For Infratil, Renewables on 11 May 2018, being the last the offer represents a continuation of its trading day before Mercury acquired a proven approach of investing in businesses 19.99% stake in Tilt Renewables from TECT with supportive market dynamics that can Holdings Limited ("TECT"), a company 100% respond to a disciplined focus on operating owned by the Tauranga Energy Consumer performance and capital allocation. Tilt Trust, for NZ$2.30 per share. Renewables will become a more meaningful investment for Infratil. Infratil is looking Infratil is confident that the Board of Tilt forward to partnering with Mercury and Renewables will support the offer, given the contributing towards the continued premium it represents for minority decarbonisation of Australasia. shareholders relative to recent trading and comparables in the Australian renewables TECT, the third largest shareholder in Tilt sector as well as the delivery of certain value Renewables which continues to hold 6.81%, to Tilt Renewables minority shareholders. granted Mercury an option over the remainder of its shares in May 2018. Tilt Renewables has approximately 11% Following the offer becoming fully market share of installed wind capacity in unconditional Mercury has agreed to exercise Australasia, with a total installed capacity of the option to acquire those shares in a 637MW across 8 wind farms. Tilt Renewables manner which complies with the takeovers is well positioned to contribute to the code, with Infratil ultimately to become the continued decarbonisation of Australia and holder of those shares. The agreement New Zealand with a development pipeline of between Infratil and Mercury, combined with more than 1,600MW of planning approved the shares covered by the TECT option, projects covering wind, solar and storage aggregates to 77.84% of Tilt Renewables technologies. Tilt Renewables has recently shares. submitted a bid to sell output from the ("Dundonnell") to the NZ$208.54m of funding is required to acquire Victorian Government. Dundonnell is a all of the shares that Infratil and Mercury do 336MW development project in Western not currently hold or control at the offer Victoria that will require significant capital price. Infratil has sufficient funding capacity investment by Tilt Renewables and its and intends to fund the takeover offer, and shareholders. any near-term Tilt Renewables development projects, through the use of existing cash and Tilt Renewables has stated that it intends to debt facilities available to it. fund Dundonnell using a combination of new

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The only substantive condition of the offer is the world’s largest lithium‐ion battery; and approval from the Australian Foreign trailblazing pumped hydro projects at GFG’s Investment Review Board ("FIRB"). There is Middleback Ranges mining operations. also a 50% acceptance condition that will be satisfied promptly after the offer is launched. Mr Gupta believes there is a great future for There are some other customary restrictive energy‐intensive industries in Australia, with conditions that Infratil and Mercury currently this the first step in GFG leading the country’s intend to waive or declare as satisfied (to the industrial transition to more competitive extent permitted by law) once the FIRB energy. condition is satisfied. Payments would commence within 7 days thereafter. “Today’s event is symbolic of our desire to develop and invest in new‐generation energy A copy of the Notice of Intention to make an assets that will bring down Australia’s offer has been sent to the NZX and ASX. The electricity prices to competitive levels again, offer is intended to be formally sent to as well as our commitment to local and shareholders in early September, and is regional Australia,” he said. expected to close in October. “In particular, this signals the beginning of our UBS is acting as financial adviser to Infratil. journey with a number of stakeholders to not Buddle Findlay is providing legal advice. only transform GFG’s operations in Whyalla, but also further enhance the appeal of this 1 Based on the closing price of Tilt great city.” Renewables shares on the NZX of NZ$2.13 on 14 August 2018, being the last trading day The project boasts an impressive 600GWh of prior to the lodgement of Infratil and energy generation per year – enough to Mercury's notice of intention to make a full power almost 100,000 average homes – takeover offer. drawn from 780,000 solar panels across an area 550 times larger than Adelaide Oval. Source: Infratil Mr Gupta said this project – together with SIMEC ZEN’s second solar project, in US$1 billion renewable energy development to be built nearby – will make this one of Australia’s largest solar farms, with program launched in Whyalla, even larger projects to follow in other states. South Australia “All of these projects will not only improve 15 August reliability and greatly reduce the cost of SIMEC ZEN Energy – part of Sanjeev Gupta’s electricity in our own operations, they will global GFG Alliance – has launched its also provide competitive sources of power for landmark US$1 billion, one‐gigawatt other industrial and commercial users, while dispatchable renewable energy program in at the same time playing a key role in the the Upper Spencer Gulf today, unveiling market’s transition towards renewables,” he details of its first project – the exciting Cultana said. Solar Farm project.

“We have a strong conviction that traditional South Australian Premier Steven Marshall, carbon‐intensive generation sources do not Whyalla Mayor Lyn Breuer, and SIMEC ZEN have a long‐term future as the predominant Energy Chairman Sanjeev Gupta were on hand source of power in Australia and globally. We to launch the first of many renewable energy believe the world is undergoing a momentous projects planned for the region by SIMEC ZEN transition to renewable power as the cost of Energy, including cogeneration at GFG’s renewables drops dramatically and quickly. Whyalla Primary Steel plant using waste gas;

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“It is, however, important that we project, including a 1300 phone number, acknowledge and also support the critical role project website, and consultation events that coal and other traditional fossil‐fuel‐ throughout the local area. These events will based power must play in this transition.” commence with an information stall at this weekend’s Whyalla Show, and people can also Mr Gupta said he had no doubt that request further information via the project generations to come would be powered email address mostly by renewable power, however this [email protected]. transition would take time and must be phased in carefully. Cultana Solar Project – Fast Facts - 280MW capacity “Looking forward, we will therefore continue - 780,000 solar panels to invest in renewables, helping drive their - 1100 hectares in size market penetration and continual increase in - 550 times larger than Adelaide Oval affordability and reliability,” he said. - 600GWh of energy generation per year - Enough energy to power over 96,000 homes “At the same time, we will make use of - Offsetting 492,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide traditional power sources supporting an every year orderly transition.” - 350 direct jobs during the construction phase; 10 ongoing operation and Mayor Breuer commended Mr Gupta for his maintenance positions vision for the region, with council keen to - Upskilling of the indigenous and local partner with GFG in the rejuvenation of workforce Whyalla over the coming decades, including - Construction expected to commence in early leasing a portion of the land for the Cultana 2019 project. Source: ZEN Energy “We’ve already seen Sanjeev invest tens of millions improving efficiencies and reducing input costs for his Whyalla operations, this PROJECT NEWS now marks the beginning of his long‐term Bango Wind Farm investment program,” Mayor Breuer said. CWP Renewables’ up to 75-turbine, 200 MW

Bango Wind Farm, approximately 20km north “Most importantly for Whyalla, this project of Yass in NSW, has been approved by the signals to the nation that Whyalla is open for federal government under the EPBC Act with development, helping attract industries to our conditions relating to the protection of listed great city and further diversify and strengthen threatened species and communities and our economy.” listed migratory species, the Golden Sun Moth

and Superb Parrot. SIMEC ZEN Energy has commenced preliminary consultation discussions with the local community regarding the project, and will continue to engage closely with key stakeholders as it progresses through the remaining approval processes. Development approval is currently anticipated within the fourth quarter of this year, with construction commencing in the first quarter of 2019.

SIMEC ZEN Energy will also launch a number of ways to consult with the community on the

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QRC applauds Sun Metals on Funding applications will be considered from all sectors, including but not limited to its solar power first community development, the arts, education 16 August and training, health and wellbeing, sport, The Queensland Resources Council has economic development, environment and welcomed the official opening of Sun Metals’ sustainability. ground-breaking solar project near Townsville. Applications for funding are open to any not- for-profit or incorporated community-based “This is yet another case study where organisations with projects located up to 50 Queensland is leading the way in making best km from the wind farm. All applications will use of our rich energy resources,” QRC Chief be assessed on their merits with regard to Executive Ian Macfarlane said. selection criteria including their benefit to the community and proximity to White Rock Wind “Sun Metals is the first heavy industrial power Farm. user to be investing in its own renewable energy source on a commercial scale. More information on the selection criteria and details of how to apply can be downloaded “Reliability and affordability of energy supply from the Glen Innes Severn Council or White are non-negotiable for industries such as zinc Rock Wind Farm website. refining. The closing date for applications is Friday 14 “Through this investment generating September 2018. approximately 125 MW, Sun Metals has provided further resilience to the refinery and The Community Fund Committee, consisting security for its workers. of the project owners, local council and community representatives, will review all “Queensland shows there’s no need to play submissions received by the closing date. favourites when it comes to our energy sources. ‘We’re very pleased to make these funds available to the local community each year. “Coal, gas and renewables all have their role We’ve worked very closely with the to play in making the most of our energy mix. Community Consultative Committee, and This in turn delivers the most affordable and Inverell and Glen Innes Severn Councils to get reliable power for homes and businesses.” the fund up and running. We look forward to seeing the initiatives put forward for funding Source: Queensland Minerals Council this year and in the years to come.’ said Brian Hall, CECEP representative on the Community Fund Committee. Glen Innes Severn Council is administering the Community Fund now open fund, including the application process, on 16 August behalf of White Rock Wind Farm. Applications are invited from community groups and organisations for a share of this ‘Seeing the local benefits such a fund will year’s White Rock Wind Farm Community provide, Glen Innes Severn Council is donating Fund. The $175,000 fund will be on offer each its services to help roll out this Fund in the year for the entire lifespan of the wind farm. local area.’ said Mayor, Cr Steve Toms.

The aim of the Community Fund is to Source: Goldwind Australia financially support initiatives and projects that enrich and enhance the local community.

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Keyneton Wind Farm wind farm, and is committed to engaging with all of its stakeholders both face-to-face and Pacific Hydro is proposing to develop a wind via community information sessions. This farm at Keyneton in South Australia. The site page will be updated with the details as they is located 6km west of Sedan and 10km south are announced. In response to some east of Angaston and runs approximately questions already raised by the community, 15km north to south along the Mount Lofty Pacific Hydro has prepared detailed answers Ranges. which can be viewed here.

On 6 December 2013, the South Australian If you would like to receive project updates Development Assessment Commission (DAC) please register by emailing approved the project, comprising 42 turbines [email protected] or by calling with a maximum height of 145.5m from the 1800 730 734. ground to the tip of the blade (when vertical).

The project is anticipated to generate over Project Approval 325 gigawatt-hours per year, enough to On 14 December 2017 Pacific Hydro received power approximately 60,000 households. an extension of time from the Government of Local benefits from the project are likely to South Australia to substantially commence include job opportunities during construction, development of its Keyneton Wind Farm and increased council revenue through rates from associated ancillary infrastructure. Under this the project, and funding of local community new extension, Pacific Hydro is required to initiatives through our Community Investment have substantially commenced the Program. development by 29 November 2019 and

completed by 29 November 2021. An Community Engagement indicative project schedule is With the project moving toward construction, available here (PDF). Pacific Hydro has begun to re-engage with the

Keyneton community. Project representatives Source: Pacific Hydro would like to meet individually with residents living within a 3km radius of the wind farm. The purpose of these meetings is to enable Pacific Hydro to hear from its neighbours to Windlab appoints Infrared understand each resident’s specific situation Capital Partners as its exclusive in relation to the wind farm and address any questions. equity partner for Lakeland Wind Farm Upcoming Community Engagement sessions: 17 August Sunday, 19 August 2018 Windlab Limited (ASX: WND) today  10.30am – 12.30pm: Cambrai, announced that it has executed a non-binding Keyneton Open House conversations - term sheet with InfraRed Capital Partners to Register here provide 100% of the equity required to  2.30pm – 4.30pm: Keyneton Open construct the 104MW Lakeland Wind Farm House Conversations - Register here project.

If you live in or own a property within a 3km Lakeland Wind Farm is a fully approved wind radius, please contact the project team farm located 60 km South-west of Cooktown to arrange a meeting time by on the Cape York Peninsula, adjacent to the emailing [email protected] or town of Lakeland. by calling 1800 730 734.

CEO of Windlab Limited, Roger Price, said: Pacific Hydro wants to understand individual “We are delighted to announce InfraRed circumstances for those living closest to the Capital Partners as our equity partner in

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Lakeland Wind Farm. InfraRed have a strong NEW PROJECTS track record in renewable energy investment Murray Bridge North Solar both in Australia and around the world.” Farm The proposed investment by InfraRed Capital Location: Murray Bridge, South Australia Partners is subject to the completion of due Capacity: 4.9 MW diligence, execution of definitive Developer: Terregra Renewables documentation, final selection of engineering LGA: Murray Bridge procurement and construction contractors Estimated cost: $8.45mil and financial close of the project. Employees: Up to 40 during construction & 2 for operations Source: Windlab Description: The development comprises the following elements: - The installation of 17,472 ground mounted PROJECT NEWS solar panels using a tilt system. Queensland generation licence - A control building. - 2 modular inverters containing inverters, applications transformers and switchgear. Generation licence applications have been - Underground cabling linking the solar panels submitted for: to the “power stations” and the control - Wircon’s 92.5 MW Clermont Solar Farm building. located in consisting of - Underground HV cabling linking the facility approximately 275,442 solar panels served by to the existing SAPN grid. 37 x 2.5 MVA SMA Inverters and connected to - Security fencing and vehicle access gate. ’s distribution network via a new - Landscaping. 66kV connection at the Clermont Substation. - Vehicle access point to Mannum Road. - Elliott Green Power’s 75 MW Childers Solar - Internal service roadways. Farm, approximately 15km east of Childers in The solar panels will cover an area of Queensland, consisting of approximately approximately 8 to 9 hectares, equating to 123,000 x 330 watt BYD polycrystalline some 40% of the subject land. modules and 104,550 x 330W Suntech Contact: Grazio Maiorano polycrystalline modules on a single-axis Director tracking system, with 37 x 1.75MVA inverters URPS (consultant) and connected to Ergon Energy’s distribution Tel: (08) 8333 7999 network at the 66 kilovolt (kV) Isis-Howard Email: [email protected] feeder via a newly constructed 66/33kV substation. Seaford Heights Renewable - Elliott Green Power’s 96 MW Susan River Solar Farm, located approximately 15km Energy Facility north of Maryborough in Queensland, Location: McLaren Vale, South Australia consisting of approximately 104,340 x BYD Capacity: 3.18 MW 330 watt polycrystalline modules and 185,190 Developer: LMS Energy x Suntech 330W polycrystalline modules on a LGA: Onkaparinga Council single-axis tracking system, with 49 x Estimated cost: $5.24mil 1.75MVA inverters and connected to Ergon Description: The proposed development Energy’s distribution network at the 66 kV involves the installation of a landfill gas power Torquay Feeder via a new Ergon 66/33 kV generation facility at the Southern Region substation. Waste Resource Authority (SRWRA) site in McLaren Vale. The proposed facility will replace existing landfill gas power generation equipment currently installed on the land and consist of:

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- 3 x 1.06 MW Jenbacher J320 spark-ignition “The New England region is unique, in that reciprocating engines there is a natural correlation between the - 2 x gas conditioning skid generation profiles of wind and solar. - 3 x HV transformer Combining wind and solar together with - 3 x HV reactor battery storage will allow large-scale, - HV switching unit dispatchable renewable energy to be - Control room exported from the region”, Mr Mounsey said. - Coverage storage bund - Workshop shed “The Sapphire Renewable Energy Hub will be - 10,000 litre water tank, and the largest such project in the world. This is - 2 x 20 metre lightning poles. the future of energy generation in Australia, Contact: Oliver Scheidegger being constructed right now.” LMS Energy Tel: (08) 8291 9044 Source: CWP Renewables Email: [email protected]

CWP receives approval for Sapphire Renewable Energy Hub 17 August The company behind the 270 MW has today received planning approval from the NSW Department of Planning and Environment for a c.200 MW solar + storage project, which will expand the wind farm to a wind, solar and battery hybrid project called the Sapphire Renewable Energy Hub.

The Sapphire Wind Farm commenced construction in January 2017 and is expected to be fully operational in coming months. Construction of the solar and battery infrastructure is anticipated to commence construction in early 2019 and will take approximately 14 months.

CWP’s Head of Development, Mr Ed Mounsey, said that the expanded project will bring next big wave of renewable energy investment to the New England region, together with renewable energy leadership.

“Construction of the wind farm has created 150-200 FTE jobs over an almost two year period. Construction of the solar and battery infrastructure will create a further 150-200 FTE jobs and will extend the benefits for local businesses.”

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