Project Update Week ending 31 May 2019

Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction 27 May Energy Networks Australia congratulates Angus Taylor on his re-appointment to the Morrison Cabinet in an expanded energy and Somerset Dam fires up for emissions reduction portfolio. renewable energy 27 May Energy Networks Australia CEO Andrew Dillon One of south-east Queensland's major said the industry looked forward to continuing drinking water dams is back producing to work with Minister Taylor in progressing a renewable energy as Queensland heads sustainable energy future at what was a towards a 50 per cent renewable energy critical time in the evolution of the sector. target by 2030.

“Our key priorities are the grid integration And the possibility of more hydropower being challenges of connecting renewables, both produced by state dams is set to be examined. large and small scale, the National Hydrogen Strategy and maintaining the sector’s A major refurbishment of the Somerset Dam financeability,” Mr Dillon said. Hydro-Electric Plant has been completed and this month the plant started producing “Energy and climate policies are closely linked renewable energy. and combing the two is a positive step towards the policy certainty and stability the Natural Resources, Mines and Energy Minister industry needs. Dr Anthony Lynham said a study also had been commissioned to assess the technical “Renewable energy presents many and economic feasibility of hydropower opportunities but also challenges for the grid, generation across all of its dams in south east which is why Energy Networks Australia has Queensland. been working with the Australian Energy Market Operator on the Open Energy “This about looking for renewable energy Networks project.” opportunities aimed at reducing operational costs and reducing the overall environmental Source: Energy Networks Australia footprint,’’ Dr Lynham said.

“The study will examine sites for traditional hydro-electric plants at existing dams as well as the feasibility of larger pumped hydro storage.

“Electricity is the largest single cost to the production of drinking water. Seqwater

Page 1 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) believes there are significant opportunities “Hydro was a key facet of our election available to offset electricity costs by commitment to set up new-publicly owned increasing its renewable energy generation generator – CleanCo – which will help drive and by optimising energy consumption. down energy prices,’’ Dr Lynham said.

“Seqwater estimates up to 30-40 pr cent of its “CleanCo’s foundation generation assets will annual energy consumption could be provided include Wivenhoe – which produces 570MW by renewable energy it generates over the of pumped storage hydro-electric power.’’ next decade or so. The hydrogeneration feasibility study is “In turn this can help reduce the costs of expected to be completed by the end of 2019. water treatment and the supply of drinking water to businesses and households.’’ Seqwater Chief Executive Officer Neil Brennan said the Somerset hydro plant was inundated "It also, conceivably, could put downward by the January 2011 floods and was further pressure on electricity prices as more and impacted by the 2013 flood event. more renewable energy - solar and hydro - comes on line.’’ “A comprehensive study was undertaken post-flood which identified a rebuild of the Dr Lynham said the $11 million restoration of plant as the best option for its future. The the Somerset plant had increased its capacity plant has been restored to virtually as-new from 3.2 to 4.1 megawatts, adding to condition, including automatic control with Queensland’s renewable energy generation. remote interface," he said.

“Somerset Dam will remain one of the “The plant will be able to operate up to 24 region’s major drinking water storages with hours a day as required as water is released the added benefit of being able to produce from Somerset Dam into Wivenhoe Dam as green energy for south east Queensland,’’ he part of regular operation." said. The refurbishment includes redesigning the “The Palaszczuk Government’s has committed original turbine to increase output and $863 million commitment to water efficiency, and installing a new generator and infrastructure since December 2017, creating control system to provide reliability and 1643 jobs for Queenslanders.’’ Dr Lynham remote operation. said. Source: Queensland Government “We will continue to invest in water infrastructure that is economically and financially viable and provides value for Progress on energy money for Queenslanders. technologies fails to keep pace “Seqwater now produces hydro at Wivenhoe, with long-term goals for clean Somerset and Hinze dams and the Landers Shute Water Treatment Plant (Montville).’’ energy transitions 27 May Hydropower plants capture the energy of The International Energy Agency’s latest and falling water to generate electricity. A turbine most comprehensive assessment of clean converts the kinetic energy of falling water energy transitions finds that the vast majority into mechanical energy. A generator then of technologies and sectors are failing to keep converts the mechanical energy from the pace with long-term goals. turbine into electrical energy.

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Of the 45 energy technologies and sectors Given the urgency and scale of actions needed assessed in the IEA’s latest Tracking Clean for clean energy transitions around the world, Energy Progress (TCEP), only 7 are on track this year’s TCEP features much greater with the IEA’s Sustainable Development emphasis on recommended actions for Scenario (SDS). The SDS represents a pathway governments, industry and other key actors in to reach the goals of the Paris Agreement on the global energy system. The analysis also climate change, deliver universal energy includes in-depth analysis on how to address access and significantly reduce air pollution. more than 100 key innovation gaps across all sectors and technologies. These latest findings follow an IEA assessment published in March showing that TCEP provides a comprehensive, rigorous and energy-related CO2 emissions worldwide rose up-to-date expert analysis of clean energy by 1.7% in 2018 to a historic high of 33 billion transitions across a full range of technologies tonnes. and sectors. It draws on the IEA’s unique understanding of markets, modelling and Some clean energy technologies showed energy statistics to track and assess progress major progress last year, according to the new on technology deployment and performance, TCEP analysis. Energy storage is now “on investment, policy, and innovation. It also track” as new installations doubled, led by draws on the IEA’s extensive global Korea, China, the United States and Germany. technology network, totalling 6,000 Electric vehicles had another record year, with researchers across nearly 40 Technology global sales hitting 2 million in 2018. China Collaboration Programmes. accounted for more than half of total sales. TCEP is part of the IEA’s broader efforts Solar PV remains on track with a 31% increase on tracking energy transitions and key in generation – representing the largest indicators to help inform decision makers on absolute growth in generation among where to focus innovation, investment and renewable sources. But annual capacity policy attention to achieve climate and additions of solar PV and renewable power as sustainable development goals. a whole levelled off in 2018, raising concerns about meeting long-term climate goals. Source: International Energy Agency

This year’s analysis expands coverage to include flaring and methane emissions from Murra Warra oil and gas operations, which are responsible for around 7% of the energy sector’s update greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. Despite 28 May some positive developments over the past In December 2017, Downer EDI Limited year, current technology deployment rates, (Downer) and its partner Senvion GmbH policy ambition and industry efforts are still (Senvion), a leading global manufacturer of falling well short. wind turbines based in Germany, entered into a contract for Stage One of the Murra Warra The buildings sector also remains off track, Wind Farm near Horsham in Western Victoria. with emissions rising again in 2018 to an all- time high. This was the result of several Stage One of the factors, including extreme weather that raised involves electrical, procurement and energy demand for heating and cooling. construction work, including the installation Another concerning development was the of 61 wind turbines. Under the contract, slowdown in fuel economy improvements Senvion is responsible for the manufacture, around the world as car buyers continued to transport, erection and commissioning of the purchase bigger vehicles. turbines while Downer is responsible for

Page 3 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) balance of plant works. Stage One is valued at Work is continuing to progress on site and approximately $380 million, with Downer’s Downer has initiated discussions with share approximately $100 million. Senvion’s court appointed Custodian and other key stakeholders, including Partners While the delivery scope of Stage One of the Group (the owner of the wind farm), to Murra Warra Wind Farm is split between establish a process for securing delivery of Downer and Senvion they share any liability outstanding equipment and completing Stage under the project contract jointly and One. severally. Downer holds a substantial bank guarantee from Senvion. As these discussions continue, along with the self-administration process, Downer will be On 9 April 2019 Senvion filed self- assessing whether there is any potential administration proceedings in Germany. On financial impact on Downer and consequently 17 April 2019 Senvion announced that its any impact on its guidance for the 2019 lenders and main bond holders had signed a financial year. Downer will keep the market binding loan agreement for a EUR100 million updated. debtor-in-possession ("DIP") facility. Senvion stated: “The facility enables Senvion to Source: Downer continue its business operations following last week's self-administration filing. The DIP facility has received Board approvals and NEW PROJECT allows substantial drawings already this week, Newstead Solar Farm thus enabling the company to stabilise its Location: Newstead, Victoria business operations and provide funds to its Developer: Renewable Newstead non-insolvent subsidiaries.” Capacity: Up to 10 MW

LGA: Shire of Mount Alexander Senvion has also stated publicly: “Senvion Status: 2019, May – expressions of interest Australia is working closely with wind farm from landholders sought owners and contractors to ensure that we can Description: Community group Renewable continue to safely deliver and operate wind Newstead planning a small-scale solar park of farms in Australia.” between 2-10 MW and released EOI from

landholders around Newstead for parcels of Construction and delivery of Stage One of the 20 hectares or less of flattish land near Murra Warra Wind Farm is at an advanced powerlines with few trees and good road stage: access. The proposed solar park will include a • approximately 95% of Downer’s balance of battery system. Renewable Newstead plans to plant work has been completed on schedule supply the town of an estimated 754 people and on budget; with 100 per cent grid-connected renewable • 26 of the 61 wind turbine generators have energy for its electricity requirements, and been erected; has the support of the Victorian Government • all remaining towers and blades are either with $1mil funding promised in 2019 budget. at the manufacturer’s premises, port or at the Contact: Don Culvenor Murra Warra Renewable Newstead site; and Tel: 0427 573 536 • three of 61 nacelles are in the process of Email: [email protected] being manufactured, a further three have been completed and are at the manufacturer’s facility and the remainder are either in Australia or in transit to Australia.

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Gladstone solar farm charges contribute to the Palaszczuk Government’s renewable energy target of 50 per cent by ahead with major milestone 2030. 29 May Gladstone is closer to hosting one million “This solar farm will help us to reduce solar panels with the independent emissions and tackle a changing climate,” Dr Coordinator-General approving a Lynham said. development application for a 762-hectare solar farm in the city’s State Development “The proponent will also adopt Buy Area (SDA), subject to conditions. Queensland and Gladstone Buy Local procurement policies, giving preference to Minister for State Development, local sub-contractors and manufacturers.” Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said Acciona Energy’s proposed Acciona Energy signed a 30-year agreement in Aldoga solar farm will create up to 240 April last year with the Queensland construction jobs and 10 ongoing jobs once Government to lease land for their Aldoga operational. renewable energy project.

“At maximum capacity the $400 million solar The Coordinator-General has placed strict farm will generate around 250 megawatts of conditions on the project to ensure any energy, which is enough to supply adverse impacts, such as construction traffic, approximately 122,000 homes annually,” Mr visual impacts and stormwater flow, are Dick said. managed appropriately.

“The power generated will be fed into the The community benefit fund will be in the national electricity grid via a connection into form of a scholarship and education program, the Powerlink Larcom Creek Station. a research and development program (partnering with CQU), and a sponsorship and “A community benefit fund will also be small grants program (for community groups established by Acciona Energy to invest and not-for-profits). $50,000 to $120,000 from the project back into the community each year. Public consultation of the application was undertaken between 13 March and 4 April “Over the lifetime of the project, this will see 2019. a total of $1.5 million to $3.6 million put back into Gladstone and surrounding areas.” Source: Queensland Government

Member for Gladstone Glenn Butcher said locals will notice progress on site with the installation of two meteorological monitoring Contact takes next step in (MET) stations. developing world class geothermal project at Tauhara “These are being installed to gather data on 29 May the location’s climatic conditions,” Mr Butcher Contact Energy is drilling a series of appraisal said. wells on the Tauhara geothermal field as it

builds towards a final investment decision for “The information gathered will help fine tune a new power station in 2020. the design of the solar farm, ensuring it is as productive as possible.” “We will be working with Tuaropaki Trust-

owned MB Century to drill four appraisal wells Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and on the Tauhara geothermal field, which is a Energy Anthony Lynham said the project will

Page 5 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) high quality and globally significant resource,” The offer has also been extended until 30 Chief Executive Dennis Barnes said. June 2019.

“A potential new geothermal power station at Community co-investment in large renewable the foot of Tauhara Maunga is New Zealand’s energy projects is relatively common in Europe, cheapest and most attractive option for but it is new to Australia. CWP Renewables and renewable baseload electricity generation,” Partners Group, through their joint venture he said. Grassroots Renewable Energy, are pioneering community investment in their Australian Mr Barnes said geothermal energy was project portfolio, starting at Sapphire. important in the transition to a low-carbon future as it provides baseload generation Community investors will receive a return of unlike weather dependant wind, solar or 6% for 9 ½ years, with a minimum investment hydro generation. of $1,250 and a maximum investment of $200,000. “Geothermal energy can also provide a low carbon supply of direct heat for industrial “We believe in sharing the benefits of our processes and we are working with a number of projects” said Andrew Dickson from CWP interested parties on prospective developments.” Renewables. “Community co-investment allows everyday people to invest in our Mr Barnes said Contact was proud of its projects, alongside institutional investors.” historic links to the local Taupō community which goes back more than 60 years to the The community investment will be managed commissioning of the Wairakei geothermal through an innovative online ‘fractional power station in 1958. investment’ platform called DomaCom (www.domacom.com.au). Investors can use “Geothermal development and production is DomaCom’s website to sign up, transfer their economically significant to regional New funds and manage how their returns will be Zealand economies. This drilling investment is paid to them each quarter. expected to cost approximately $30 million, the vast majority of which will be spent in “We believe that a return of 6% represents a New Zealand.” good investment, and it is much higher than the bank rate” said Mr Dickson. “Participation The drilling programme will commence in in this community co-investment initiative August and complete in early 2020. also provides the satisfaction of contributing to the creation of good jobs and clean energy Source: Contact Energy in regional areas.”

The Supplementary Product Disclosure Statement for the investment offer is online at https://domacom.com.au/wp- Community Co-Investment: content/uploads/2019/02/Sapphire_Prospect us_Web.pdf Now open to all NSW and ACT residents until 30 June 2019 Community investors can sign up for the 29 May investment offer at: The Sapphire Wind Farm Community Co- https://domacom.com.au/public- Investment initiative has been expanded to crowdfunding-campaigns/commercial- allow all residents in NSW and the ACT to properties/sapphire-wind-farm/ invest, following its successful implementation in the New England region. Source: CWP Renewables

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Vena Energy powers up Tailem Mr Nangia said nearly half the workforce was from the local region while most of the work Bend Solar Project shirts and heavy machines on site sported the 30 May names of local businesses including Rivercity Vena Energy Australia announced today the Excavations, Mosel Surveyors and Moore completion of its 95 megawatt (MW) Tailem Cranes. Bend Solar Project at an official opening ceremony attended by the Member for “We’ve found the best project outcomes are Hammond, Adrian Pederick. delivered when you involve local contractors and suppliers wherever possible,” he said. The opening follows the $200 million project achieving “first generation” in February this Wayne Gerlach, owner of Murray Bridge- year, when the first batch of more than based Rivercity Excavations, said he was 390,000 photovoltaic solar panels were pleased to have been involved in the project. switched on as part of a staged testing and commissioning process. “Any big project is always good for any company and what’s more it was close to Vena Energy Australia’s managing director, Mr home,” Mr Gerlach said. Anil Nangia, said achieving full commercial operation at the site and its connection to the “The project has done wonders for Tailem national grid followed years of hard work. Bend because they used local people, that was the best part about it.” “It is very satisfying that this has come together like we planned and it’s a great Member for Hammond Adrian Pederick said demonstration of what can be achieved after the project would help deliver affordable, lots of hard work by our staff, landowners, reliable and cleaner energy to South consultants, contractors and regulators, Australian households and businesses. including many local suppliers who have been with us from the start,” Mr Nangia said. “Tailem Bend is a great spot for this project and highlights the region’s natural A significant partnership for the project, that advantages,” Mr Pederick said. “I’ve certainly was formed quite early on, was with Snowy appreciated the extra jobs and money going Hydro Limited who signed a 22-year offtake into businesses near Tailem Bend,” he said. agreement for 100 percent of the project's energy output. Tailem Bend joins Bungala Solar Farm near Port Augusta as the first large-scale solar 's CEO Mr Paul Broad said it was projects to begin production in South great to be working with Vena Energy Australia. The project will deliver in the order Australia and that Tailem Bend was the first of 200,000 MW hours of renewable energy solar project that the company contracted per year, which is predicted to meet the with. "Through our retail energy brand in annual needs of approximately 40,000 homes. South Australia , we can supply solar energy to our customers right across the In Australia, Vena Energy is progressing over State." Mr Broad said. 2,400MW of renewable energy projects across the country including Tailem Bend A peak construction workforce of more than Solar Project Stage 2, which is similar in size to 250 and a fleet of excavators, bulldozers, Tailem Bend Solar Project, and a Tailem Bend graders, cranes, trucks and trenchers have Battery Energy Storage Project. taken 12 months to transform close to 280 hectares at Tailem Bend, 100km south-east of Source: Vena Energy Adelaide in South Australia.

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Vestas solution secures 227 “The Collector Wind Farm demonstrates the increasing attractiveness of wind energy as a MW merchant project in cost-effective provider of electricity and as an Australia attractive and bankable investment”, says 29 May Vestas Asia-Pacific President Clive Turton. Vestas has successfully secured an “Vestas is pleased to bring our leading engineering, procurement and construction technology, experience and knowledge to contract for the 227 MW Collector Wind farm, provide a customised energy solution for to be developed by RATCH-Australia Collector, and to make it the latest in a series Corporation. The contract includes the supply of CEFC-funded renewable energy projects of Vestas’ 4 MW platform turbines and a long- that are supporting Australia’s transition to a term, full scope service agreement with an low-carbon energy system”. energy-based availability guarantee. This site- specific solution has been designed to Anthony Yeates, RATCH-Australia’s Executive maximise annual energy production and General Manager for Business Development, provide RATCH-Australia with long-term said: “Vestas has developed a competitive business case certainty for the project. solution that meets site specific requirements. Following the successful completion of our The Australian government-owned Clean 180 MW in North Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) is injecting Queensland, we are extremely pleased to be AUD 180 million into Collector Wind Farm as continuing our relationship with Vestas. They sole debt financier. CEFC will finance the continue to be one of our most trusted project on a merchant basis, meaning it is partners”. assuming market risk on the project’s revenue rather than providing funding conditional on Commercial operations at the Collector Wind securing long-term Power-Purchase Farm are scheduled to commence in the Agreements. This development shows the second half of 2020. increasing competitiveness of wind energy and underlines the effectiveness of the Vestas Source: Vestas 4 MW platform and the availability guarantee in reducing risk and improving business case certainty. Supreme Court rules rushed

The project, located in the New South Wales new Queensland solar Southern Tablelands, features challenging site regulations invalid restrictions on tip- and hub-height. To 29 May maximise energy production under these The Clean Energy Council welcomes today’s constraints, the project will feature 54 Vestas decision by the Supreme Court of Queensland V117-4.2 MW turbines at a hub height of that a state government regulation requiring 91.5m. The turbine solution delivers power the use of licensed electrical workers to output that is competitive with other market mount and fix unplugged solar panels was offerings, offers higher power output per invalid. dollar invested and renders the project financially attractive. The Electrical Safety (Solar Farms) Amendment Regulation 2019 (Qld) , which Vestas will provide an up to 25-year Active came into force on 13 May, was successfully Output Management 5000 (AOM 5000) challenged by Maryborough Solar – owners of service agreement, a full-scope service the Brigalow Solar Farm near Pittsworth in package with an energy-based availability southern Queensland – on the basis that it guarantee designed to maximise energy was inconsistent with the Electrical Safety Act production over the lifetime of the project. (2002). In delivering his determination, Justice

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Bradley declared the amendment regulation PROJECT NEWS Section 73A to be beyond the regulation- Western Treatment Plant making powers of Queensland’s Electrical Sustainable Energy Infrastructure is seeking a Safety Act. license for Power Generation, Network and

Retail Licenses for its Werribee biogas Anna Freeman, the Clean Energy Council’s generation facility in Victoria as soon as Director – Energy Generation, described the possible. The Werribee facility captures ruling as “a victory for common sense”. methane from the anaerobic digestion of

sewage waste water at the Melbourne Water “The industry is obviously disappointed that Sewage Treatment Plant. This methane is this issue came down to a court challenge. captured by Melbourne Water and supplied Our preference was for a proper consultation to SEI to fuel 7 x 1.06 MW and 2 x 1.25 MW process and full consideration of its regulatory reciprocating engines for a total installed impact. Mounting and fixing unconnected capacity of 9.96 MW. The power station solar panels to a rail is mechanical work – not operates 24 / 7, 365 days per year and electrical work – and we are very pleased the generates ~64 GWh annually. All electricity Supreme Court of Queensland has ruled in the generated by the facility is sold directly to industry’s favour,” Ms Freeman said. Melbourne Water as part of the overarching

Power Purchase Agreement. Any electricity Under the now invalid regulation, only that is surplus to Melbourne Water’s licensed electricians were permitted to locate, requirements is exported to the network by mount, fix or remove solar panels on projects Melbourne Water under a separate larger than 100 kW. This was work that has arrangement between Melbourne Water and been done successfully on dozens of projects their Electricity Retailer. by skilled labourers and trades assistants.

Ms Freeman said that the industry remained committed to working with the government CEFC reaches 2GW wind and all interested stakeholders to deliver milestone with finance for continuous safety improvements in the solar industry. major NSW wind farm 30 May “The solar industry recognises that safety is The CEFC has confirmed investment paramount, but this new regulation did commitments of almost $1 billion in nothing to improve the safety of workers and Australia’s wind sector, delivering 2GW of was not justified by the government’s own wind energy across regional Australia. The safety data,” she said. latest investment is a $180 million commitment to the Collector Wind Farm in “Any future changes should be formulated in south-eastern NSW, with the CEFC’s role as consultation with the industry and all relevant sole debt financier supporting the accelerated stakeholders, and should be based on delivery of the innovative $360 million evidence. We look forward to working with project. the Queensland Government to help achieve our shared aims of safely delivering on its 50 CEFC Wind Sector lead Andrew Gardner said: per cent renewable energy target by 2030,” “CEFC investments in large-scale wind she said. developments have tracked a remarkable level of innovation and change in the sector. Source: Clean Energy Council “While our earliest finance supported projects which had secured only partial off-take agreements, we are now working on hybrid

Page 9 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) projects that bring together wind, solar and 42.5MW Collinsville solar project in storage, as well as projects that are seeking Queensland to improve grid stability in the new style off-take agreements with large region. The CEFC has previously provided corporates. finance to the Collinsville project.

“These developments have driven RATCH-Australia’s EGM of Business considerable infrastructure investment in Development Anthony Yeates said: “RATCH- regional areas, while creating long-term Australia is very glad to have the CEFC assets that capitalise on Australia’s natural investing alongside us in this project. The wind resources. Wind developers are also CEFC is one of Australia’s most active contributing significant additional investment investors in renewable energy and this to local communities through long-term experience really shows in their approach to community development funds. In the case of new projects. Their accumulated experience Collector, this will see $240,000 injected into really helps progress and de-risk the whole the local community each year.” industry, and ultimately this benefits everyone”. The Collector Wind Farm is located along the Cullerin Range south-west of Goulburn, which A RATCH-Australia Community Enhancement boasts some of the windiest conditions in Fund will invest $240,000 into local projects NSW. With 54 wind turbines, the project is each year over the 30-year life of the project. expected to generate in the order of 528GWh The funds will be invested into the region via of energy annually, enough to meet the needs a pair of community trusts that have been of around 80,000 average homes. structured with significant involvement of the local community. Mr Gardner said that as sole debt financier to the project, the CEFC had enabled it to reach The Collector development will be one of the financial close on a fully merchant basis, first in Australia to use the 4.2MW V117 ahead of securing energy offtake contracts. Vestas turbines. In addition, Vestas will use innovative drone and 3D imaging technology “Finance for fully merchant projects unlocks to deliver routine blade maintenance and further wind sector opportunities and builds data collection. confidence in their longer-term commercial potential,” Mr Gardner added. Vestas Asia-Pacific President Clive Turton said: “The Collector Wind Farm demonstrates the “This development has the potential to increasing attractiveness of wind energy as a reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about cost-effective provider of electricity and as an 9.3 million tonnes over its lifetime, making a attractive and bankable investment. significant contribution to efforts to lower carbon emissions across our economy. We are “Vestas is pleased to bring our leading pleased to see CEFC finance continuing to fill a technology, experience and knowledge to significant finance gap for developers, with provide a customised energy solution for our capital supporting accelerated project Collector, and to make it the latest in a series development before off-take contracts are of CEFC-funded renewable energy projects locked in.” that are supporting Australia’s transition to a low-carbon energy system.” The Collector Wind Farm is being developed by RATCH-Australia and is located near, and Source: CEFC will connect into, major NSW network transmission facilities. As part of the investment agreement with the CEFC, RATCH- Australia will install storage capability at its

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Adani Rugby Run solar farm “For this reason we were able to use local Queensland contractors from Clermont, switched on Chinchilla, Bowen and Townsville, ensuring 30 May the benefits of this investment are focused in Adani Renewables Australia’s Rugby Run solar regional Queensland.” farm has now been switched on and its 247,000 solar panels have started supplying The solar farm has been built for renewable power to regional Queensland Queensland’s conditions. The panels are homes and businesses. programmed to rotate to track the sun most efficiently and also to move to the most The Rugby Run solar farm, located near effective angles to withstand inclement wind Moranbah, will ramp up to full operation to and weather. deliver 65MW and 185,000MWh of electricity each year, equivalent to approximately the “We are able to leverage Adani’s expertise as amount of energy it takes to power 23,000 India’s leading generator of solar power and homes each year. manufacturer of solar panels when delivering our renewables projects in Australia,” Mr Reaching this important milestone for the Chapman said. Rugby Run solar farm builds on Adani’s track record for delivering projects and new Source: Adani Group businesses where ever we operate in the world.

When there is stability in the regulatory Improving transparency of the regime and approval processes, Adani Group’s frequency control framework: businesses are able to deliver projects consultation begins efficiently and to the highest standards by 30 May drawing on our nimble entrepreneurial The AEMC today released a consultation culture. paper on a rule change request which would:

 seek to improve transparency The Rugby Run project was self-financed by regarding the frequency control Adani and we managed construction framework contractors directly to ensure cost-efficient  require AEMO and the AER to report and timely delivery, rather than via the more on the performance of frequency and common EPC contract model. the frequency control ancillary

services (FCAS) market. Adani Renewables Australia Business Manager

Derek Chapman said Rugby Run is Adani The rule change request was submitted by Renewables Australia’s flagship project in AEMO and the AER to action the Australia, delivering benefits to regional recommendations made by the AEMC in Queenslanders. its Frequency control frameworks review final

report, which, among other things, was aimed “The construction of the farm enabled us to at improving the transparency of the employ more than 175 people during peak framework. construction periods,” Mr Chapman said.

The frequency control framework is central to “There are several construction stages within maintaining the stability of the power system, the solar farm delivery process that use skills which operates within defined technical which are transferrable from other industries, limits. like the mining sector.

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The consultation paper seeks stakeholder New, cheaper options to input on the proposal, including on the:  specific metrics AEMO and power remote communities the AER should report on, and 30 May  preferred frequency of reporting. New technology would be used to provide better, cheaper power services to remote This request was submitted as two separate consumers under reforms set out by the rule change proposals. These have now been Australian Energy Market Commission consolidated, as they both raise issues related (AEMC). to the frequency control framework. The Commission is recommending a range of This rule change request seeks to improve regulatory changes to enable distribution transparency by formalising reporting already network businesses to supply their customers undertaken by AEMO and the AER. As a result, with stand-alone power systems where it is the AEMC considers this to be a non- cheaper than maintaining a connection to the controversial rule change proposal and is grid. proceeding under an expedited process. The reforms would provide consumers with Subject to any objections to the expedited the same protections, reliability standards and process, there will only be one round of access to competitive retail offers via their consultation. Objections to the use of the retailer of choice as those connected to the expedited process must be lodged by 13 June grid. 2019. A stand-alone power system – usually a Submissions on the rule change request are combination of solar PV, batteries and a back- due by 27 June 2019. A final rule is due on 25 up generator – would be installed by their July 2019. distribution network but would not be physically connected to the national grid. The AEMC’s Frequency control frameworks review final report detailed the Frequency AEMC Chief Executive Mrs Anne Pearson said control work plan which in turn sets out the changes would enable those living in actions the Commission, AEMO and locations where power supply is unreliable, or the AER will take to support the stable and subject to frequent or extended blackouts, to secure operation of the power system in have better quality services and would reduce relation to frequency control. More costs for all energy consumers by avoiding transparent and regular reporting of expensive investment in poles and wires frequency performance is part of this where customer numbers are limited. collaborative work plan. “New technology using distributed energy Source: AEMC resources is making it possible to supply customers at the end of the line in a cheaper and better way,” Mrs Pearson said.

“The old-fashioned way of centralised generation being distributed by stringing poles and wires to the remote corners of Australia is giving way to solar and battery systems where energy is generated closer to where it is used.

“These reforms mean that people living at the end of the line will get a better quality service

Page 12 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) with the same protections without paying any “In the Sixties it was the Space Race,” the more. Premier said.

“Ultimately, reducing the need for poles and “This century is all about energy. wires to service remote consumers reduces the network costs which make up around 50 “Queensland is at the forefront of hydrogen per cent of the average electricity bill. It also development. reduces bushfire risk and the visual impacts of power lines.” “We aim to keep it that way.”

While consumers can currently go “off-grid” On her Trade Mission to Tokyo earlier this they do so at their own expense and in most week, the Premier signed a Memorandum of cases have very limited consumer protections. Understanding with resources investment The AEMC reforms recommend that the group Japan Oil, Gas and Metals Corp COAG Energy Council require distribution (JOGMEC) to include continued co-operation networks to identify the opportunities for developing hydrogen. stand-alone systems and work with their customers where a transition to a stand-alone Queensland’s new hydrogen strategy focuses power system makes sense. on five areas: - supporting innovation Trials of stand-alone power systems are - facilitating private investment currently underway in several states including - effective policy frameworks NSW, Queensland and Western Australia. - building community awareness and - facilitating skills development. Note: The recommendations apply to the Minister for State Development, national electricity market which covers South Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, New South Cameron Dick said the state’s investment – Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and $15 million of which will support an industry Queensland. Some of the recommendations development fund – will ensure the growth of also apply in the Northern Territory, which a hydrogen industry in Queensland. has adopted parts of the national rules. “Our five-year plan will help drive the Source: AEMC development of an economically sustainable and competitive hydrogen industry in Queensland, creating more highly skilled jobs Queensland positioned to and export opportunities,” Mr Dick said. power the hydrogen highway “The energy production from renewable 30 May hydrogen is something that has long been The Palaszczuk Government has reinforced its possible, however, conditions are now more commitment to developing a world-class favourable for this industry to develop locally. sustainable hydrogen industry, releasing the new $19 million Queensland Hydrogen “Global demand for hydrogen is increasing, Industry Strategy 2019–2024. with the market expected to reach $US155 billion by 2022, and much of that will be Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said hydrogen driven by Asia-Pacific markets. has the potential to be Queensland’s next LNG, and a new source of highly-skilled jobs, “I’m confident that in partnership with especially in regional Queensland. industry, universities and research institutes, we can develop a world-class renewable hydrogen industry here in Queensland.”

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Member for Gladstone Glenn Butcher said Mr Dick said Queensland is already active in Queensland’s vision was to be at the forefront the development of Australia’s national of renewable hydrogen production by 2030, hydrogen strategy. and the strategy will assist in achieving this goal. The development of a sustainable hydrogen industry has the potential to be as successful “This global transition to a low-carbon future as the state’s liquified natural gas (LNG) presents tremendous opportunities for industry. Queensland,” Mr Butcher said. “Japan is emerging as one of the major future “Our state has all the pre-requisites needed to users of hydrogen energy and its car industry support a renewable hydrogen industry, has developed several hydrogen-powered including solar, wind and biomass, a pro- cars,” he said. business government, existing gas pipeline infrastructure, and first-class export facilities, “In March 2019, Queensland celebrated its and we’re eager to take advantage of our first-ever delivery of green hydrogen to Japan, position.” exported by JXTG with hydrogen produced at QUT’s solar cell facility at the Queensland SynBio General Manager (Renewable Government’s Redlands Research Facility. Technologies) Ben Tabulo said the Queensland Hydrogen Industry Strategy was a “Next week, I’ll be meeting with business significant step in the right direction. leaders and energy companies in Tokyo.”

“We are supporting this strategy as we “Our challenge is to leverage our advantages believe it will have great benefits for and innovation to make the production, Queensland,” Mr Tabulo said. storage and transportation of hydrogen possible and ensure Queensland continues to “The production of hydrogen is a key priority be a first-class supplier of energy.” for Gladstone. Apart from enormous export opportunities, the investment announced To view the Queensland Hydrogen Industry today will accelerate access to cheaper Strategy 2019-2024, please visit domestically produced hydrogen. dsdmip.qld.gov.au/hydrogen

“Lower energy costs mean increased Source: Queensland Government productivity and more jobs. This is why SynBio and Northern Oil are currently working with the CSIRO to develop a technology that will Government to appeal solar capture hydrogen from our refining processes. farms ruling, workers safety “Excess hydrogen will be made available for paramount consumption within a hydrogen fuel cell to 30 May produce electricity to run our pilot plant. Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace has

announced that the State Government will “It’s green and clean, but importantly it makes lodge an appeal against a Supreme Court of strong economic sense,” he said. Queensland judgement to invalidate recently

introduced regulations relating to solar farms. “We applaud the efforts of the Queensland

Government and look forward to seeing a Ms Grace said the government would, at the sustainable and competitive hydrogen same time, apply for a stay of the decision industry in Queensland.” pending the outcome of the appeal so that

Page 14 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) while the technical legal matters are resolved, Generator Report Card the safety measures that form the regulations are maintained. released 31 May “My department and their legal advisors have This morning (Friday 31st May 2019) our reviewed the written judgement overnight Generator Report Card was finally released! and advised me that there are solid grounds for appealing the decision,” Ms Grace said. This was a collaborative effort between the team here at Global-Roam Pty Ltd and the Ms Grace said the appeal is based on legal team at Greenview Strategic Consulting. The technicalities and has nothing to do with the exercise certainly challenged both safety argument. organisations (and we thank our broader client base for being so patient with us during She said the regulations were developed the 7 months we devoted to the exercise). following advice from Crown Law and drafted We’re very pleased to reach the finish line – by the Office of Queensland Parliamentary and, in particular, with the breadth and depth Counsel, which was the general process for of what we’ve been able to deliver. the introduction of all regulations. Particularly growing through 2017 and 2018, “We introduced these regulations following we have observed (and sometimes been advice from an expert panel, including the involved in) a number of parallel discussions Electrical Safety Commissioner, to ensure about various aspects of Power Station Queensland has the highest-possible electrical Performance – with some discussions being safety standards for its rapidly-growing solar private, and others being public. electricity generation industry,” she said. Hence, late in September 2018 we resolved to “When it comes to electrical safety there are compile an extensive Generator Report Card no second chances. The safety of workers in that will cover all power stations across the this industry was the government’s NEM, no matter what their fuel type or motivation for developing these regulations technology. and remains our motivation for appealing yesterday’s decision.” The more than 600-page Generator Report Card is a deep dive into the 20 years of the Electrical Safety Commissioner Greg Skyring NEM and every generator supplying the welcomed the government’s decision to market. appeal the decision. For more information visit “The Supreme Court decision deals with http://www.wattclarity.com.au/articles/2019/ technical legal issues in relation to the new 05/generatorreportcard-released/ regulations,” Commissioner Skyring said. Source: Global Roam “However, I remain concerned about the safety risks workers installing solar panels at these large-scale solar electricity generating farms face, such as electrical shock and fire. Contrary to some of the commentary I’ve seen in the media, these risks are very real and very serious and they need to be addressed.”

Source: Queensland Government

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Councils call for a state 50% Councillor Naomi Godden from Augusta Margaret River said that community needs renewables target by 2030 the State Government to set a courageous 31 May target that matches current climate science to Western Australian councils have called on slam the brakes on the climate crisis. the state government to commit to renewable energy target of 50% by 2030 and an 100% “The Western Australian government is emissions reduction target by 2050 at a forum currently developing its climate policy and we held in Perth on Thursday (30 May). are calling on the McGowan government to be bold, courageous and true to the science 21 councils from across the state at the by committing to ambitious emissions forum, hosted by the Climate Council’s Cities reduction target and renewable energy Power Partnership, identified the lack of a targets.” state-level renewable energy and emissions target as a major barrier to local work to “Local governments and our communities are tackle climate change, and have urged the on the frontline of the climate crisis. The state to step up its ambition. community in Augusta-Margaret River is already experiencing reduced rainfall and Dr Brad Pettitt, Mayor of Fremantle, said that increased risk of fire causing great concern now is the time for Western Australia to seize amongst residents. Our most vulnerable the opportunity to move forward on community members are most at risk such as renewable energy. low-income earners and independent farmers. “I’m really excited to see that the lead has been taken by local governments to advocate “We need leadership for urgent action by our for a target that matches the climate science state government and we feel these are the if we are going to have a sustainable future minimum targets that will get us there.” for this planet,” he said. Cities Power Partnership Acting Director “These targets are ambitious but entirely Tracie Armstrong said that local governments doable with the right political leadership and were ready to go with renewables but a state investment decisions over the next decade.” target is crucial to support their work on climate change. “Western Australia has lagged in this space for the last decade but now is the time for the “The councils we spoke to today are primed state government to step up to work with and ready to tackle climate change, but local government to realise our state’s without a state renewable energy and potential as a renewable energy powerhouse emissions reduction target it’s difficult for and realise the opportunities for jobs and them to attract the investment and support investment that go with it.” they need to get these projects underway,” she said. CLIMATE TARGETS THAT COUNCILS ARE CALLING FOR “With a courageous state clean energy target 21 councils from across Western Australia that matches the climate science, Western have called for: Australia could swiftly become a renewables - 50% state-wide renewable energy target by leader.” 2050 - 65% state-wide emissions reduction target Source: Cities Power Partnership by 2030 - 100% emissions reduction target by 2050

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