Project Update Week ending 24 August 2018

UNSW test lab will be an Australian first 17 August UNSW Sydney will be at the forefront of wind export to the national grid. The grid requires power research thanks to a $2m extension of electricity to be delivered at a frequency of a program with Chinese wind power giant exactly 50 Hertz, and while wind power Goldwind. generation is generally reliable, problems can occur when wind speed changes rapidly World-leading UNSW Sydney researcher causing the turbines’ output to vary, which Professor Joe Dong has secured more than may destabilise the grid. $2m in funding from Chinese wind power giant Goldwind for research projects including “Wind power is an established technology and an Australian-first lab to test wind technology. in most cases dependable, although there are some remaining problems to be solved in The lab is the first stage of a memorandum of efficiency, stability and frequency control,” understanding signed at the UNSW China Professor Dong said. “Currently, we do not Centre Inauguration in Shanghai this year, and have a facility in Australia to test wind will build on ongoing research between UNSW turbines before connecting to the grid and so Engineering and Goldwind, the largest wind we must do this in the United States or power technology and development company Europe, which is very expensive – and the in China and one of the largest internationally. foreign electricity grids don’t perfectly mimic the Australian system.” Professor Dong, a world-leader in power systems engineering, said: “Wind power, Professor Dong added that increased along with photovoltaics, is the most reliability in testing in a new, local lab will important renewable energy for the future. contribute to his goal of solving the remaining This memorandum of understanding includes issues with wind power generation, and place building the joint test facility at UNSW, which UNSW firmly at the forefront of wind power will be the first of its kind in Australia. Further research in Australia and among leaders investment from Goldwind will fund research internationally. projects covering wind power studies, energy internet, wind turbine noise control and water UNSW Dean of Engineering Mark Hoffman processing technologies.” said: “Australia is an important market for wind power generators and this agreement Wind power is the cheapest source of large- with Goldwind demonstrates their scale renewable energy, after hydro. It commitment to partnering with involves generating electricity as wind internationally-renowned researchers to turbines capture wind energy within the area complement their own capability. swept by their blades. The spinning blades drive a generator that produces electricity for

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“In 2017, wind farms produced 33.8 per cent other countries look to transition to low of Australia’s clean energy and supplied 5.7 carbon energy sources,” Mr Frischknecht said. per cent of overall electricity during the year. I “If Australia can tap into our abundant wind look forward to seeing the fruits of this and solar resources to produce hydrogen partnership benefit the renewable energy using renewable energy, we could export industry in Australia and boost its long-term hydrogen at large scale,” he said. reliability for the entire community.” With the right conditions, Australian hydrogen Source: University of NSW exports could contribute $1.7 billion per annum to the economy and provide 2,800 jobs by 2030, the report found. Hydrogen offers significant Four countries – Japan, China, the Republic of exporting potential for Korea and Singapore – are identified in the Australia report as prospective markets for Australian hydrogen by 2025. 17 August

Australia is in a strong position to take “While countries like Japan and Korea look to advantage of the growing hydrogen export decrease emissions and increase renewable market, according to a new report released options, they are looking to import hydrogen today by the Australian Renewable Energy at large scale but there are as yet no Agency (ARENA). exporters,” Mr Frischknecht said.

The report, prepared for ARENA by ACIL Allen According to the report, Australia is in a Consulting, identifies opportunities for competitive position in regards to potential Australia to export hydrogen to help meet the exports to Asia due to its location, excellent potential future global demand. renewable energy resources, well established

energy trading relationships and experience in Over the next decade, Australia could seize on large scale energy infrastructure construction. the opportunity to export hydrogen as significant increase in demand for green But Australia is not alone, as countries like hydrogen, ARENA Chief Executive Officer Ivor Norway, the United States and Middle Eastern Frischknecht said. countries are also likely to scale up their

capability to export hydrogen. “Hydrogen has long been talked about as a potential energy source. Hydrogen produces “The sector is still in its infancy which places no carbon emissions when burned – only Australia in a prime position to utilise its water vapour and heat, and produces more abundant renewable resources, as well as energy per kilogram than natural gas,” he proven track record of exporting energy and said. strong relationships with energy importers to

become a major player in exporting hydrogen Green or clean hydrogen can be produced via to Asia and around the globe,” Mr electrolysis from renewable electricity, or can Frischknecht said. be produced using fossil fuels with the emissions then captured and sequestered. A hydrogen export market has also been Hydrogen could then be exported by identified to benefit regional communities as liquefying it, or by converting it to a carrier hydrogen production facilities are likely to be such as ammonia. located close to the supply of renewable

energy, particularly large scale solar farms, “Australia has a golden opportunity to the report found. become a major exporter of hydrogen, as

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Exporting renewables including hydrogen is maximum turbine envelope proposed as part one of ARENA’s four investment priorities. of Modification 4 would allow for the In December, ARENA announced a $20 million installation of a turbine model with an funding round into research and development installed capacity of up to 4.2 MW, as in exporting hydrogen. compared to the turbine models ranging between 2.0 and 3.6 MW which have been ARENA is also one of the leading agencies considered for the Project. By using the more involved in the Hydrogen Strategy Group. efficient turbine models now proposed as part of Modification 4, the Project has the Dr Alan Finkel AO, the Chief Scientist and potential to generate approximately 430 GWh Chair of the Hydrogen Strategy Group today of electricity per year - sufficient for the released the Group’s briefing paper prepared average consumption of approximately for COAG Energy Council, which ARENA 58,000 homes. welcomed. As a result of Modification 3, the total wind Source: ARENA turbines approved as part of the Project was reduced from 42 to 38 wind turbines. PROJECT NEWS Flyers Creek The proposed 132 kV electrical transmission line ("Reinstated Transmission Line") which Infigen Energy seeking approvals to modify its forms part of this modification application is development approvals (Modification 4) for required to connect the wind farm to the the 115 MW Flyers Creek Wind Farm in electrical grid network. Blayney, NSW. The following changes are proposed as part of Modification 4: The Project was originally proposed to be - increase the wind turbine envelope so as to connected to the grid via an up to 15 km long accommodate the newer, more efficient transmission line from the on-site substation turbine models now available; and to the existing 132 kV transmission line which - include a 132 kV transmission line and runs from Orange North to the Cadia Mine switching station so as to enable the Project site ("Original Transmission Line"). to connect to the electrical grid.

The Original Transmission Line was removed Since the original Environmental Assessment from the Project as part of Modification 2 to (Aurecon, 2011) ("Original EA") for the Project enable land access negotiations to be finalised was prepared and the Project was initially with relevant landholders. approved in 2014, there have been significant advancements in wind turbine technology. The Reinstated Transmission Line connects The newer turbine models generate more into the same existing 132 kV transmission electricity per wind turbine, increasing the line as the Original Transmission Line but at a amount of renewable wind energy harnessed revised location, some 4.6km north east, so as by the Project. to reflect the outcome of the final land access

negotiations with relevant landholders. Modification 4 seeks approval to increase the maximum wind turbine envelope, including an Source: Infigen increase in the maximum tip height by 10m

(from 150m to 160m) so as to enable newer and more efficient wind turbine models to be installed at the site.

The Proponent has not made a final decision on the turbine model which will be installed at the site. However, the increase to the

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Driving power prices down see their electricity price decrease as they move to a lower default market offer. 20 August

The Turnbull Government has today The ACCC estimates that for average announced a package of measures to put customers on an inflated standing offer, the downward pressure on electricity prices and savings for residential customers from moving stop energy companies from gouging their to the new default offer could range between customers. $183 and $416.

We are backing the ACCC to drive lower We also think that small businesses have the electricity prices for households and small right to the same protections and support. businesses. The ACCC estimates that savings for the

average small to medium sized business on a According to the Australian Competition and standing offer could range between $561 and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) Retail $1457. Electricity Pricing Inquiry released in July, the

National Energy Market is not operating in the The Government will also act to simplify the best interests of consumers, and reform is confusing array of offers that are currently on urgently needed. the market by requiring retailers to use the

new default rate as a reference point for all The Government is implementing a number of advertised discounts. This will give customers key recommendations from the ACCC inquiry. more clarity when they compare retailers and

offers and help ensure they get the best deal. The ACCC and the Australian Energy Regulator

(AER) will be directed to set a default price for Limits will also be placed on the penalties households and small to medium-sized customers can face when they don’t pay their businesses; a price that will deliver genuine bills on time and lose their discounts. savings to customers.

The Government will seek initially to work This will replace the current standing offer in with the states and territories on this reform. New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia If the states do not agree, we will implement and South East Queensland - jurisdictions the offer through Commonwealth law. We where prices are not regulated. expect the new default offer to apply from

July 2019 at the latest. The ACCC found the significant gap between standing offer prices and market offer prices In addition, the Treasurer will direct the ACCC has become excessive and consumers who to hold an inquiry into prices, profits and have not sought a better deal are being ripped margins in the National Electricity Market. The off. inquiry will run until 2025 and include

monitoring of retail prices and margins, A default offer will protect consumers from wholesale bids and conduct and contract being exploited, while still allowing for the market liquidity. benefits of retail competition. This measure will prevent retailers from exploiting The ACCC will prepare ongoing reports (at consumers and small business with inflated least six-monthly) and identify any cases standing offers. where outcomes are unacceptable.

Businesses will have the opportunity to Under our plan, the AER would be given the explain and rectify issues raised by the ACCC. power to set the maximum price for the Where issues are not resolved, the ACCC will default market offer in each region. have the power to recommend a proportional Customers on high-priced standing offers will

Page 4 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) and targeted response for the Treasurer’s Entura helps Infigen to connect determination. new grid-scale battery The range of enforcement remedies and 20 August responses that could be applied if the ACCC Specialist power and water consulting firm identifies problems would include: Entura has been engaged by Infigen Energy to - a public warning notice issued by the deliver grid connection support services to its Treasurer or ACCC; new 25 MW / 52 MWh Battery Energy Storage - a court enforceable undertaking, as currently System (BESS) in South Australia. used by the ACCC in other contexts; - converting the default market offer into a The BESS will be located adjacent to Infigen’s binding cap price; existing 278.5 MW - tightening guidelines for how the AER sets and will be connected to the National the default market offer to further drive down Electricity Market (NEM) via the Mayurra the default electricity price; substation owned by ElectraNet. - fines and other financial penalties; - extending market making obligations beyond “Entura brings a wealth of expertise in hybrid South Australia, which is a form of structural renewables and generator connection, separation; and coupled with previous experience with Lake - ordering divestiture of assets or parts of an Bonney Wind Farm and ElectraNet,” said energy business (as a last resort). Infigen CEO Mr Ross Rolfe. “We’re pleased to be partnering with Entura in this important The Government will also be accepting the project that will deliver improved energy ACCC’s recommendation to implement a security and reliability of supply for South program to underwrite new, stable, low-cost Australian energy consumers.” generation for commercial and industrial customers. This program will be technology As part of its scope, Entura has undertaken a neutral, as recommended by the ACCC. grid connection study and is supporting Infigen as it finalises connection arrangements In addition, the Government will accept the for the BESS. ACCC’s recommendations to: - limit market power by placing a cap on the “Grid-scale batteries play a key role in helping share of generation any single market renewables to become dispatchable, allowing participant can own or control, excluding wind and solar farms to operate more flexibly investment in new capacity and noting the and providing greater value to asset owners,” ACCC’s recommended 20 per cent cap; said Donald Vaughan, Entura’s Principal - establish a mandatory code of conduct for Consultant Electrical Primary Systems. “ energy comparator websites to ensure they focus on benefits to consumers, not the Entura works with clients across Australia and commissions they receive from energy the Pacific to help them tackle the challenges companies; and of creating hybrid renewable energy projects - establish greater transparency in the from small, remote locations through to wholesale electricity market and provide utility-scale. The firm delivers safe and additional powers for the AER address market sustainable solutions, drawing on its extensive manipulation in the wholesale market. knowledge of all aspects across the full lifecycle of renewable energy assets, along Source: Federal Government with expertise in batteries, pumped hydro and other enabling technologies.

Source: Entura

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Mount Emerald Wind Farm “We’ve been involved on the project since 2009 where we provided some upgrades to starts to power up the road into the site,” said Gregg 21 August Construction’s Ken Gregg whose company has Things are starting to move at Queensland’s been responsible for civil and excavation largest wind farm, the 180MW Mount works, labour hire, ground surveys and dust Emerald Project near Mareeba. suppression,” Mr Gregg said.

Ahead of the $360 million project achieving “We’re very proud of what we’ve done on full commercial operation in November, the what was a very challenging site. We share a first turbines have started to turn as part of a great sense of accomplishment and we’ve felt staged testing and commissioning process valued by Ratch and its contractors since day being conducted by project developers Ratch one.” Australia Corporation. Forty-four of 53 turbines have now been The test is a significant milestone as it raised and another six partially completed announces Mount Emerald’s “electrification” while all of the 800 tonne concrete and follows the completion of the site’s foundations have now been poured. Less than substation and switchyard which are now a kilometre of high voltage underground energised and will connect the project’s cabling is left to be installed. The remaining generation to the national electricity grid. construction and turbine installation activities will be completed in parallel with turbine Ratch’s EGM Business Development, Mr commissioning over the next few months, Anthony Yeates said getting the first of the with full operation expected to commence in wind turbine blades turning was very November this year. important step for the project. Mr Yeates was also very pleased with the “It’s a very important milestone and is the efforts on site to ensure the project had culmination of lot of work by a lot of people delivered a very high level of protection to the over a very long period of time. We’ve now local ecology. commenced generating electricity and sending it into the grid, and we’ll be ramping “We’ve had various teams of specialists on up the amount of generation over the next site who have worked very hard to make sure few months as additional turbines get the procedures for protection of cultural commissioned. We’ve invested thousands of heritage, flora and fauna have been carefully hours into site preparation and building the integrated into our work, as well as processes project and now we get to see it in action and to ensure any unexploded ordinance on the producing electricity,” Mr Yeates said. site was carefully managed. At times this work introduced new challenges, but we are proud “It is very satisfying this has come together of the outcomes and consider we have like we planned and it’s a great payoff for all probably set some sort of benchmark for our hard work, particularly for many local future projects” he said. suppliers who have been with us from the start.” The wind farm will deliver in the order of 530,000 megawatt hours of renewable While the project uses turbines by Danish energy, which is predicted to meet the annual manufacturer Vestas, local suppliers such as needs of approximately 75,000 north Gregg Construction, HEH Civil and Watto’s Queensland homes over at least a 20-year Earthmoving have left their name on the period. project.

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Power producer Ratch owns a number of wind on energy bills for homes in regional NSW,” farms around Australia including the Windy Premier Gladys Berejiklian said. Hill wind farm near Ravenshoe not far from the Mount Emerald site, and has an interest in “We are doing everything we can to help a number of renewable energy development families and businesses take control of their opportunities. power bills.”

The Mount Emerald Wind Farm will boost A $30 million program will enable Queensland’s renewable energy credentials communities across the State to build their significantly. Of the 3,500MW of wind own local clean energy projects. generation capacity currently in Australia, Queensland currently only supplies around These projects, announced today at a solar 12MW from wind farms in Ravenshoe and and battery business in Byron, will use solar, Thursday Island. wind and storage technology to power local homes and businesses. Source: Ratch Australia Funding will also be available to develop backup power systems for up to 70 PROJECT NEWS communities, further enhancing NSW’s status Aldoga Solar Farm as the most resilient State when it comes to energy security. The referral for Acciona’s proposed Aldoga

Solar Farm in Aldoga, approximately 20km Each community will be able to save up to northwest of Gladstone within the Gladstone $2750 per site per year on their energy bills. State Development Area in Queensland, has These community projects also reduce been opened for public comment by the pressure on the grid, which will help to lower federal Department of the Environment & future network costs. Energy. The proposed 280 MW AC project will consist of up to 1,000,000 solar PV modules Parliamentary Secretary for Renewable on a maximum project footprint of Energy Ben Franklin said: “NSW regional approximately 707ha for the solar farm and communities, including the State’s north 53.1ha for the overhead transmission line. coast, will benefit from the jobs and The development may also include energy investment opportunities as our State storage capability; (battery banks housed in transitions to a more reliable, affordable and shipping containers). A 1-2 ha area has been modern energy system.” reserved for such purposes, adjacent to the proposed plant substation. The funding also includes $55 million to help the private sector develop and accelerate clean energy technology for regional Clean energy funding to reduce communities, such as pumped hydro. power bills Minister for Energy and Utilities Don Harwin 21 August said: “The NSW Government is lowering Regional households will be able to reduce barriers for investment for the emerging their power bills, thanks to $85 million for energy projects of tomorrow. clean energy programs announced today by the NSW Government. “These projects will help regional

communities make the most of their energy “Tackling high energy costs is a top priority for resources, while also helping to further boost our Government and this significant NSW’s energy security.” investment puts further downward pressure

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Today’s announcement comes after the New Chief Executive Officer Premier announced a major investment in energy efficiency measures, including funding appointed to ARENA for energy efficiency upgrades for families and 21 August businesses, energy efficient bulbs in 60,000 The Australian Renewable Energy Agency street lights, and solar panels for homes and (ARENA) is delighted to announce that Mr Government buildings. Darren Miller has been appointed as its new Chief Executive Officer. Source: NSW Government ARENA Chair, Martijn Wilder AM said Mr Miller brings with him more than 25 years experience across renewable energy, Contract Power commences electricity retail and a range of sectors. work on microgrid project for Horizon Power Mr Miller was co-founder and CEO of Mojo Power, an innovative electricity retailer, from 21 August 2015 until July 2018. He was previously the Pacific Energy advises that Contract Power has Director of Asset Finance at Sungevity recently commenced early works on a Australia in 2014, and co-founder and CEO of contract with Horizon Power dated 18 March Sumwise, a technology and services company 2018 to supply and install a utility scale from 2007 to 2013. Samsung lithium battery (1.3MW) and integrate it with gas and solar generation He has previously held roles as investment facilities in the Western Australian town of manager for Publish and Broadcasting Limited Onslow. (PBL) and Consolidated Press Holdings (CPH)

from 1999 until 2006. The project has a value of approximately $2m and completion is scheduled for March 2019 Mr Miller is a Chartered Accountant with a and further demonstrates the strides Pacific Bachelor of Commerce (Hons). He also Energy and its subsidiaries are making into previously held roles at New Zealand Natural evolving renewable energy technologies. and Ernst & Young.

The battery storage system is part of an “Mr Miller is a respected leader in the important initiative by Horizon Power to renewable energy and electricity sector with provide and optimise the use of renewables. experience working with innovative The project will see the Western Australian technology companies, start ups and in town of Onslow being supplied with its investment advisory roles so is ideally placed electricity needs from one of the largest to lead ARENA as we support Australia’s comprehensive microgrid systems in energy transition,” said Mr Wilder. Australia.

“We look forward to working with Mr Miller The selection of Contract Power by Horizon as ARENA continues to support the transition Power recognizes past performance and, of the energy sector in the context of local importantly, supports ongoing growth and and international economies that are diversification. The award follows Contract becoming increasingly focused on low Power’s existing 10 year contract to supply emissions energy,” he said. power to six Western Australian remote towns, including a solar/diesel hybrid system Mr Wilder also acknowledged the for the town of Meekatharra. contribution ARENA’s inaugural CEO, Ivor

Frischknecht, made through his six-years at Source: Pacific Energy the helm.

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“Through his time at ARENA, Ivor shared his New microgrid program for the entrepreneurial insight and deep understanding of the clean energy sector and Latrobe Valley how to drive its transformation,” said Mr 21 August Wilder. The Andrews Labor Government will fund a $3 million grant program to help grow the new “On a personal level, Ivor was also a pleasure energy technology sector in the Latrobe and delight to work with and we wish him all Valley. the success for his future endeavours,” he said. Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio today announced the Latrobe Valley Microgrid Mr Frischknecht advised the Minister and the Grant Program, which will help accelerate the Board of his intention not to seek a third term uptake of renewable energy in the region. as CEO of ARENA in February this year. The funding will support the development of a ARENA was established in 2012 by The microgrid project located in the Latrobe Valley Australian Renewable Energy Agency Act 2011 with the aim of lowering the cost of energy to accelerate Australia’s shift to affordable for local businesses, encouraging investment and reliable renewable energy. Since then, in the region and supporting the transition to ARENA has committed almost $1.2 billion a low-carbon economy. towards more than 370 projects with a total project value of almost $4 billion. Notably, A microgrid is a small network of electricity ARENA has helped to make large scale solar users with a local supply of power that can commercially competitive in Australia. function independently of the electricity grid, delivering energy security, sustainability and Mr Miller will be commence his three year cost savings for those in the network. term on Monday 27 August 2018. A microgrid generally operates while Source: ARENA connected to the grid, but importantly, it can break off and operate on its own using local energy generation in times of crisis like storms PROJECT NEWS or power outages. Microgrids can also share excess energy produced back into the Batchelor Solar Farm network for other users. The Northern Territory Utilities Commission has decided to grant a generation licence to Eligible project types include microgrids, be issued to Batchelor Solar Farm Pty Ltd to virtual power plants and smart embedded construct, own and operate a 10 MW solar networks which have renewable energy as the photovoltaic power generation facility on the primary energy source. Darwin-Katherine electricity network to sell the electricity to other electricity entities Applications will close on 17 September 2018. holding a retail or generation licence. In The successful microgrid project will need to approving the generation licence, the be completed by mid-2022. Commission advised that possession of a licence does not guarantee dispatch, and that This competitive grant program is in addition System Control will constrain output if to the Government’s $10 million state-wide necessary to maintain system reliability and Microgrid Demonstration Program, service quality. announced in December 2017. Announcements on successful projects will be made shortly.

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For more information visit Powering Daintree energy.vic.gov.au/microgrids. 21 August

Options for supplying power to the Daintree Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, community have been investigated in a report Environment and Climate Change Lily released today by energy market experts D’Ambrosio Sunverge.

“We’re ensuring businesses in the Latrobe The analysis, supported by $180,000 from the Valley have access to cheap, clean, and Australian Renewable Energy Agency, reliable energy.” examined five options to power the World

Heritage-listed Daintree rainforest. These “This microgrid program will mean local included single and multiple electrical micro- businesses can save money and strengthen grids with high renewables uptake and a gas investment in the local economy.” micro-grid with renewables and bio-methane.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Federal Environment and Energy Minister Victoria Harriet Shing Josh Frydenberg personally visited the

Daintree community last year on the “This exciting initiative will give businesses the invitation of Federal Leichhardt MP Warren opportunity to source their energy from Entsch to hear first-hand community renewable resources and reduce the cost of concerns. their electricity.”

“I had the opportunity to meet members of “I encourage industry to apply for this grant the local community and see first-hand the program which will boost the development of situation where they are currently using diesel renewable energy in the Latrobe Valley.” generators to power their homes and

businesses,” Minister Frydenberg said. Source: Victoria Government

“This Sunverge report is an important step NEW PROJECT forward. I commend Warren Entsch for his Bookaar Solar Farm tireless advocacy for his local community on Location: 10km north of Camperdown, in this issue.” south-west Victoria Capacity: 200 MW Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch Developer: Infinergy Pacific welcomed the release of the Sunverge report LGA: Corangamite Shire Council and said he looked forward to seeing real Description: The project will consist of action and results moving forward. 700,000 panels. The project’s Planning Application and accompanying assessments “The comprehensive report outlined five have been submitted to the Corangamite recommendations but option one is the only Shire Council. Site selected for its suitable grid practical solution in that it will deliver reliable connection options onsite,; extensive farming mains equivalent power while delivering land; good transportation links and site environmental outcomes through access; and low visual impact. The site was incorporation of innovative renewable previously considered for a wind farm technologies and massive reduction of fossil development. fuels,” Mr Entsch said. Contact: Richard Seymour Project Manager “Australians would be horrified to learn that Infinergy Pacific more than 10 million litres of diesel is burnt Email: [email protected] annually in the Daintree to power generators. This in itself is unacceptable. That’s why we

Page 10 (Click on relevant project links to go to online Project Database) must get serious about powering the Helping Australia’s busiest Daintree. airport to go renewable “The time for talk is over. The Daintree 22 August community wants action.” Origin is helping Sydney Airport, the gateway to Australia, in its journey to a renewable Mr Entsch said he was pleased to learn the energy future. Queensland Government had committed $1 million towards a plan to develop a solution to With more than 40 million passengers a year, deliver sustainable energy for the Daintree. nearly 350,000 aircraft movements a year, three terminals, a freight facility, not to “The onus is now on the Queensland mention close to 55,000 people working on Government to produce the business case so airport across more than 200 organisations, the project can go to tender,” he said. Sydney Airport uses a lot of energy.

“I will be watching closely the progress on this will supply to 75 per cent of critical project.” Sydney Airport’s electricity with wind power in an innovative energy agreement that The Sunverge report is available here: combines renewables with firming generation arena.gov.au/knowledge-bank/powering- and supports the airport’s goal of halving its daintree/ carbon intensity by 2025.

Source: Federal Government Under the long-term agreement, Sydney Airport will be supplied with wind power from the Crudine Ridge Wind Farm contracted NEW PROJECT through Origin, with Origin to provide firming generation when the wind is not blowing Jindera Solar Farm enough to meet the airport’s load. Location: Glenellen, north of Jindera in New South Wales The 37-turbine, 135 MW wind farm located Capacity: 130 MW 45km south of Mudgee, NSW, commenced Developer: Jindera Solar Farm Pty Ltd, a construction earlier this year and is expected partnership of Hanwha Energy Corporation to be fully operational by late 2019. and Green Switch Australia Estimated cost: $100mil With operations around the clock, wind was a Employment: 300 construction jobs & 2 natural choice of renewable source for the operational jobs airport, with Origin entering into an offtake LGA: Greater Hume agreement with Crudine Ridge and packaging Description: The solar farm would occupy it with firming supply when the wind farm is around 519 ha of rural land currently used for not generating enough to meet the airport’s agriculture. The proposal infrastructure load. includes solar arrays, trackers, modules, invertors, a substation, underground cabling, Origin Energy executive general manager security fencing, battery storage and a cable energy supply and operations Greg Jarvis said run to connect the solar farm to TransGrid’s there was growing interest from customers Jindera substation. for renewable energy solutions. Capital Investment Value: $100,000,000.00 Contact: Symon Grasby “Renewable energy in Australia is rapidly Green Switch Australia growing in scale and Origin is enabling our Email: [email protected] customers to source energy with direct line of sight to wind and solar facilities,” Mr Jarvis said.

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“When Sydney Airport approached us wanting systems incorporating solar PV, wind turbines, a cost-effective way to meet their energy gas or diesel power generators. needs and reduce emissions, we developed an • Opportunity for network providers to save innovative agreement where we contract the millions of dollars by utilising V-KOR battery as wind and bundle it with firming energy in an an electricity network solution. all-in-one package. • Protean is continuing to receive enquiries regarding its V-KOR battery and progresses “Sydney is Australia’s busiest airport, towards commercial orders. operating around the clock – the combination of wind and firming is perfect to meet their Protean Energy Ltd (Protean or the Company) load and help them transition to cleaner is pleased to announce an update to the energy supply,” Mr Jarvis said. 25kW/100kWh V-KOR vanadium battery deployment at the OzLinc Industries site in Origin has committed to 1,200 MW of new O’Connor (Perth, Western Australia). renewable supply since March 2016 and can provide energy from any of these wind or The local network operator (Western Power) solar farms or assist in procuring and firming has provided approval for the battery to be energy outside this portfolio. connected to the network. The deployment will be used to demonstrate the V-KOR Earlier this year, Origin signed a landmark vanadium battery capability to future agreement with the University of NSW to customers, and to collect data to help refine provide firming generation to complement product configurations for grid connected the university’s offtake agreement with batteries. Sunraysia Solar Farm and was seeing growing interest from customers wanting more To date, the OzLinc Industries deployment has sustainable energy combined with the been used in a micro grid situation (isolated assurance of firming energy and expert from the main electrical grid), in combination portfolio management. with a 21kW solar PV system and a 21kW diesel generator. “Origin is proud to be helping our customers develop energy procurement strategies to Protean plans to further demonstrate the enhance their sustainability aspirations,” Mr capability of the complete Battery Energy Jarvis said. Storage Solution (BESS) via developing a number of Australian projects as part of our Source: Origin Energy roadmap to large scale grid installations.

The V-KOR vanadium battery is a key enabler V-KOR vanadium battery for peak shaving and renewable energy utilisation, designed to be used in conjunction successfully achieves first with solar systems, wind turbines and natural Australian electricity grid gas generators. The V-KOR vanadium battery allows customers to utilise more of their own integration renewable energy by storing excess solar or 22 August wind energy for use at selected times of the • 25kW/100kWh V-KOR vanadium battery day. successfully integrated with the Western Power electricity grid at OzLinc Industries trial The battery can also be used to store off peak site in Perth, for its first Australian grid energy from the grid, for use in peak periods. connection deployment. • Valuable data from the OzLinc trial will help optimise the V-KOR battery within hybrid grid

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Protean sees future commercial opportunities Energy Solar Power Generation Facility is in for the V-KOR vanadium battery particularly response to a localized need for affordable for:- power to users with high load requirements • Network Operators – Potential efficiency to support business, local economic growth gains in network augmentation by utilising V- and stability of the Riverland region. KOR battery as an electricity network solution. • Commercial & Industrial Market - Reduced Tender closes at 5:00 PM Adelaide time 4 peak demand charges, and increased self- October 2018. supply using low cost renewables for C&I customers. More information available here, or contact • Renewable Energy Farms - Firming of large Damian Edwards by email scale renewable energy intermittency. [email protected]

Mr Na, Chief Technical Officer for KORID Contact: David Beaton Energy said: “The Perth trial allows CEO refinement of ancillary battery functionality as Berri Barmera Council part of our development roadmap. It also Tel: (08) 8582 1922 serves to build familiarity with future Email [email protected] customers. The V-KOR battery is progressing towards full commercialisation for the Australian market and our technology will NEW PROJECT assist network providers to offer lower Parkesbourne Solar Farm electricity costs to their customers. We are Location: Parkesbourne, ~15km west of encouraged by the size of the market Goulburn in NSW opportunity for vanadium batteries in Capacity: Approximately 600 MW Australia and the enquiries we have had from Developer: CWP Renewables land developers, major commercial customers LGA: Goulburn Mulwaree and recent discussions with the electricity Estimated cost: $600mil network provider. The time is right for our Employment: 300 construction jobs & 25 battery technology and we are strategically operational jobs positioned to capitalize on a rapidly expanding Description: Proposed development is on battery storage market in Australia and agricultural land, well suited to solar globally.” generation due to its flat terrain, low density

of rural residential dwellings and proximity to Source: Protean Energy existing transmission infrastructure. The

project is comprised of solar photovoltaic (PV) NEW PROJECT modules, steel racking and piled supports, Berri Barmera Council Solar electrical transformers and inverters, battery Farm storage, electrical cabling, telecommunications equipment, security Location: Berri Barmera Council in South fencing, a site office, maintenance building Australia and car park facilities. Two TransGrid 330 kV Capacity: 10 MW transmission lines directly cross the proposed Developer: Berri Barmera Council project area, which will provide the Description: The Berri Barmera Council invites connection to the national electricity grid. The Expressions of Interest from Registrants for identified land is currently used for grazing the construction and operation of a 10MW and/or cultivation by landholders included in solar farm which will contribute to delivering the project. a predictable and cost-effective renewable energy supply within the region. The proposed construction of the Berri Renewable

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Queensland charges ahead department had worked with Imperium 3 to finalise the assistance agreement to support with Townsville battery project the delivery of the feasibility study for the $2 23 August billion lithium-ion battery manufacturing Townsville is one step closer to having a $2 facility. billion lithium-ion battery factory creating hundreds of new jobs following today’s Source: Queensland Government signing of an assistance agreement between the Queensland Government and an PROJECT NEWS international consortium. Wellington North Solar Farm Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the AGL’s proposed Wellington North Solar agreement with Imperium 3 – an international development has been placed on public joint venture led by Boston Energy and exhibition by the NSW Department of Innovation, Magnis Resources and Charge Environment & Planning until 19 September. CCCV LLC – follows on from her Government’s The proposed development footprint covers election commitment last year to provide up approximately 837 ha, including the solar to $3.1 million for a feasibility study into this plant site and two transmission line options to project. connect to TransGrid’s existing Wellington Substation, located approximately 3km south “Today’s signing is great news for Townsville, of the Proposal site. and Queensland as a whole, as it means we are one step closer to making this facility a It is anticipated that the proposed Wellington reality, along with the jobs it would bring to North Solar Plant would include the following Townsville,” the Premier said. infrastructure elements: - PV modules mounted on a horizontal fixed “I was in Boston in June this year at the BIO or tracking structure. International Convention, as part of my trade - Power conversion stations (PCS) to allow delegation to the United States, where I conversion of DC module output to AC observed the signing of a recommitment electricity. between Townsville City Council and - An onsite substation containing transformers Imperium 3 should the lithium-ion battery and associated switchgear. project progress to construction. - Underground electrical conduits and cabling to connect the arrays on the array site. “In line with our Advance Queensland agenda, - Internal access tracks and upgrades to we are determined to make the most of the existing access roads, where required. opportunities for the future, and by assisting - An area for a future battery storage facility. to progress the feasibility study of this project, - Site office and maintenance building with we hope to leverage considerable private associated car park. sector investment into regional Queensland. - Perimeter security fencing and CCTV. - Up to approximately 7km of 132kV or 330kV, “Battery storage solutions are fundamental to overhead or underground transmission line to making renewable energy reliable, and the existing TransGrid 330kV substation Imperium 3’s project would be supplying into (either an east and or west transmission line). a rapidly expanding market and would further develop Queensland’s advanced The construction phase is expected to last manufacturing capabilities in the renewable approximately 18 ‐ 24 months with peak energy market.” activity during the middle nine months of the construction period. At the peak of the Minister for State Development, construction, it is anticipated that up to 250 Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning site personnel would be required onsite. Cameron Dick said a senior team from his

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Contracts signed for Portland that will be located at the sewage treatment plant site in Olearia Road. Portland company renewable energy project Keppel Prince has been sub-contracted to 23 August manufacture the tower using local steel. In Wannon Water is pushing ahead with a $4.2 another win for locals, Portland firm G.R. Carr million wind generation project that will is the successful tenderer for the $770,000 provide all the power for its energy-intensive contract for the project’s civil works. water and sewage treatment facilities in Portland. Work at the site is expected to begin soon and the project is scheduled to be commissioned The project is the latest step in Wannon by mid-2019, weather permitting. Water’s pledge to reduce carbon emissions by 40 per cent by the year 2025 and achieve net- Once connected to the grid network, the wind zero carbon emissions by 2050. Once generator will produce more than two commissioned, the generator will contribute gigawatt hours of renewable energy each year significantly towards Portland achieving zero- and reduce carbon emissions by 2,000 tonnes net emissions from local renewable power a year. It will be smaller than other generators generation for its water and sewage installed along the coast and will connect into treatment systems. existing power infrastructure.

Managing Director Andrew Jeffers said the Source: Wannon Water capital cost would be paid back within 10 years through reduced energy bills. “Over the life of the asset, the total payback is forecast NEW PROJECT to be substantial, resulting in future savings for our customers.” Glenellen Solar Farm Location: Glenellen, 16km north of Albury in “We also recognise the importance of southern NSW supporting regional economic growth and Capacity: Approximately 200 MW, New South prosperity. The project therefore includes Wales, Australia input from at least one local supplier,” Mr Developer: CWP Renewables Jeffers said. LGA: Greater Hume Estimated cost: $200mil The project aligns with Water for Victoria, the Employment: 150 construction jobs & 10 Victorian Government’s long-term blueprint operational jobs for investment in water-related activities and Description: The project consists of solar the water sector to support a healthy photovoltaic (PV) modules, steel racking and environment, a prosperous economy and piled supports, electrical transformers and thriving communities. inverters, battery storage, electrical cabling, telecommunications equipment, security The Water for Victoria plan sets a new long- fencing, a site office, maintenance building term direction for managing the state’s and car park facilities. Battery storage will precious water resources as we deal with the allow energy to be stored and dispatched into impacts of climate change and a growing the National Electricity Grid on demand. population. The document sets out a range of Contact: Ed Mounsey climate mitigation strategies for water Chief Operating Officer utilities, who are the largest carbon emitters CWP Renewables in the public sector. Tel: (02) 4013 4640 Email: [email protected] German company Enercon won the $2.1 million contract for the supply and delivery of the innovative gearbox-less E48 generator

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Adani Whyalla solar farm confirmed Whyalla as the emerging renewable energy hub of South Australia. receives construction go-ahead 23 August “We’ve been working with Adani on this South Australia is one step closer to delivering project to gain all the necessary approvals and its next large-scale solar farm with pre- put a lease agreement in place,” Mayor construction approval now granted to Adani Breuer said. Renewables Australia for the project. “This State Government approval is another The solar project will be located step forward for what will be another approximately 10km from Whyalla, at a significant solar farm project in Whyalla. vacant site which is near 400 hectares in size, delivering up to 140MW and 300,000 MWh of “We congratulate Adani Renewables on this power each year. milestone and look forward to construction starting on this project with hopefully lots of Adani Renewables Australia CEO, Jennifer local jobs created during the building stage Purdie, said the project has now received all and in the running of the facility.” the necessary approvals to commence construction, making it the most progressed Adani Renewables is currently writing Power large-scale solar project in the Whyalla region. Purchase Agreements direct with corporate customers and a commercial decision on the “With all our approvals received we are now project will be announced in QTR 3, with in the process of finalising commercial operations expected to commence in 2019. negotiations with customers,” Ms Purdie said. South Australian Business Manager, Peter “We recognize the aspirations of South Gayen, said Adani Renewables Australia was Australians to deliver a reliable energy looking forward to exploring new energy network through renewables. solutions with industry through wind, battery and pump storage projects in the future. “Adani Renewables Australia is eager to provide energy solutions to this ambition by “The Whyalla solar farm is our first project in contributing to an energy mix that is reliable, South Australia, but it’s just the beginning. We secure and affordable for all customers as we are working with South Australia’s businesses transition to a low emissions future. on the Whyalla solar farm and look forward to working with them on other future projects to South Australian Minister for Trade, Tourism deliver affordable renewable energy solutions and Investment David Ridgway welcomed that will ultimately drive down electricity Adani’s investment and said the State’s Upper prices.” Spencer Gulf region has quickly become a national focal point for renewables energy The Whyalla solar farm is Adani Renewables projects. Australia’s second solar project, with construction on their first solar farm in Rugby “This is another welcome investment for Run, Queensland, due for completion later Whyalla in particular as the investment of this year. near A$200 million will create up to 150 construction jobs at the peak of construction The Rugby Run Solar Farm will supply 65MW and up to five ongoing jobs for the life of the of renewable power in phase 1, with the project,” Mr Ridgway said. capacity to expand up to 170MW.

Whyalla Mayor Lyn Breuer welcomed the Source: Adani Australia state government approval and said it further

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