WATTS NEWS Week ending 3 September 2021

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In this week’s edition… • Proposed Port Kembla power station declared critical • NEW PROJECT: Pine Ridge Solar Farm • Genex Power FY21 statutory results • Looking for experienced EPC contractors for 5MW project in Australia • PROJECT NEWS: Metz Solar Farm • Amp Energy Agreement for Lease with the Barngarla People of South Australia • NEW PROJECT: Moah Creek Project • Purchase agreements executed for first two BOO sites • Reliability outlook positive as energy transition accelerates • VRET2 • Contact Energy to supply ‘flexible’ renewable electricity for new data centre near Clyde Dam • Octopus Australia to acquire 180MW Dulacca Wind Farm from RES • NEW PROJECT: Bulahdelah Solar and Storage • Vestas secures 181 MW deal for Dulacca Wind Farm in Australia • Siemens' string inverters is ON! powering Solar Farm in WA mine • PROJECT NEWS: Aurora Energy Project • Financial close for 396MW Rye Park Wind Farm • PROJECT NEWS: Kumbarilla Renewable Energy Park • Energy market on track for Five-Minute Settlement rule commencement • Introducing legislation to unlock investment in offshore energy projects • Star of the South welcomes historic moment for offshore wind in Australia

Proposed Port Kembla power Infrastructure (CSSI), given its importance to renewable energy capacity in NSW. station declared critical 27 August Deputy Premier John Barilaro said this is a A proposed $1.3 billion hydrogen-gas turbine massive step towards safeguarding the state’s power station in Port Kembla has been future energy security, while providing jobs declared Critical State Significant during challenging times.

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“The Port Kembla power station will be a “If approved, the dual hydrogen-gas design of gamechanger, not just for NSW but Australia,” this project will create early demand for the Mr Barilaro said. green hydrogen needed to decarbonise the State’s heavy industries and set them up to “It will provide the energy capacity our state succeed in a low carbon global economy.” needs as existing coal-fired power stations reach their end of life, and household power The proponent can now request assessment bills will be the big winner as the project requirements to prepare an Environmental maintains downward pressure on prices.”. Impact Statement (EIS), which will be subject to extensive community consultation and a full “The proposed dual-fuel power station, environmental assessment. If approved, the combining gas and green hydrogen, is the right new power station could be completed by project at the right time, and its CSSI 2024. declaration is another example of the NSW Government’s determination to forge ahead Source: NSW Government with a project that helps encourage other businesses to invest with confidence in the Illawarra.” NEW PROJECT Pine Ridge Solar Farm Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Location: Cartwrights Lane, Wyalong, NSW Stokes said the proposed power station would Capacity: Less than 5 MW produce up to 635 megawatts of electricity on Developer: Providence Asset Group demand and create 700 construction jobs. Status: Development application being

assessed by state government “If approved, the Port Kembla power station LGA: Bland Shire Council will be a critical part of the NSW energy mix as Description: The Pine Ridge Solar Farm we move to cleaner, greener renewables by proposal includes a no larger than 5 MW grid- firming up supply and keeping energy prices connected solar PV installation connected to low,” Mr Stokes said. an existing Zone Substation,

approximately 1.75km north-west of the “The NSW Government has a secure plan for proposed development site. The proposed the transition to renewables and the Port development aims to erect an estimated Kembla proposal should be declared CSSI 13,020 solar PV panels with a nameplate rating because it will be vital to achieving a low- of 540W installed on 165 ground mounted carbon emissions based economy. single axis trackers. Other electrical generation

infrastructure is proposed on the site including “Port Kembla is one of the State’s most a Power Conversion Station (PCS) consisting of valuable industrial hubs and provides local inverters, transformer switchgear and auxiliary employment. The proposed gas turbine will plant. support 35 jobs once up and running.” Contact: Henry Sun

Chief Executive Officer Minister for Energy and Environment Matt Providence Asset Group Kean said the proposed power station had Tel: (02) 9264 9889 committed to using up to 50 per cent green Email: [email protected] hydrogen.

“Port Kembla is the industrial engine room of our economy and one of the first hydrogen hubs in NSW,” Mr Kean said.

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Genex Power FY21 statutory – The funds raised includes a $25M Share Subscription Agreement with J-POWER in May results 2021 resulting in J-POWER holding 10% 27 August ownership in the Company. Genex Power Limited (ASX: GNX) (Genex or the • Net cash as at 30 June 2021 of $45.4M Company) is pleased to provide the following leaving Genex in a strong cash position to fund update on the Company’s performance for the the development of the K2-Hydro project and 2021 financial year (FY21), a period of advancement of the Bouldercombe Battery significant achievement for the Company. We Project (BBP). energised the 50MW Jemalong Solar Project (JSP) and commenced construction on our JEMALONG IMPAIRMENT flagship Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro • Impairment of $16.5M on the Jemalong asset Project (K2-Hydro). The development of these as a result of a decline in wholesale electricity projects, coupled with our existing 50MW prices, and the requirement of technical Kidston Solar Project (KS1) and extensive accounting standards to consider the asset on growth portfolio, positions the Company as a a standalone basis outside of its portfolio leader in the renewable energy generation and financing arrangements with KS1: storage markets in Australia. – Impairment is not a reflection of the operational performance of JSP which has FY21 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS been exceeding expectations since • Total generation totalling 132,853MWh a energisation; and 14% increase on the prior period (FY20: – The impairment will have no impact on any 116,520MWh); covenants associated with the JSP financing • Total revenue of $21.7M a 77% increase on nor impact the current financing which is due the prior period (FY20: $12.3M). FY21 total to expire in 2024. revenue included a $7.9M of ARENA Convertible Note forgiveness and $2.6M from OUTLOOK the UGL settlement; Genex is in a strong position to deliver on our • Sales revenue of $10.6M (up 3.7% versus growth ambitions. Our projects are positioned FY20) excludes commissioning revenue from to deliver clean, renewable power that will the Jemalong Solar Project (JSP). JSP will help Australia meet its renewable energy contribute meaningfully to revenue and targets. The increasing impact of intermittent cashflow from FY2022 onwards; power on energy prices highlights the need for • Underlying EBITDA of $1.8M (up 3% vs FY20) large scale storage options such as K2-Hydro as the result included operating costs and the BBP. Over the remainder of FY2022, associated with construction commencing at the Company will continue to focus on: K2-Hydro in Q4 FY21; • Construction activity at the K2-Hydro Project; • The Australian Renewable Energy Agency • Development of the BBP with construction (ARENA) committed $47M in grant funding for anticipated to commence during the year; and the K2-Hydro project, and converted the $9M • Progression of our K3-Wind Project, with in development funding previously provided activities to centre on planning approvals and for the project into a non-recoupable grant; proving up the wind resource for the Project. • Net cashflow outflow from operating activities of $4.8M (outflow of $4.1M in FY20). Commenting on the FY21 financial results, During the year the company spent $153.1M of Genex CEO, James Harding said: capital on property plant and equipment “In the past 12 months the Company has associated with the development of JSP and progressed and delivered on a number of construction associated with K2-Hydro; major milestones. During the year we executed • During the period, the Company raised a total the construction and finance documentation of $139M, issuing a total of 668,058,690 new for our flagship Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro shares to progress the development of Genex’s Project, and in doing so, secured all of the portfolio of renewable energy assets:

Projects highlighted in red appear in our database Page 3 funding required to construct the Project. With Looking for experienced EPC activity steadily ramping up at site, Genex is now firmly focused on the delivery of this contractors for 5MW project in Project through the construction phase, with Australia commissioning and operations to commence I am currently assisting Ramahyuck District in late 2024. When in operation, K2-Hydro will Aboriginal Corporation to develop a 5 MW be the first pumped hydro project in Australia solar Farm (the Ramahyuck Solar Farm) in the in 40 years, and the third largest electricity Gippsland region of Victoria, Australia. storage facility. One of the key points of difference of the The 50MW Jemalong Solar Project was project is that it is not being driven by profit, developed on time and budget, remaining the income generated is intended to fund relatively unaffected by the COVID-19 social needs (health services and employment) pandemic. The project successfully energised of the local aboriginal community. in December 2020, marking the delivery of the second operating asset in the Genex portfolio, The project has been advancing rapidly over and is now generating at full output. We the last month with funding committed from recognised an impairment on the asset at 30 state and federal bodies. An official June 2021 which was required as a result of the announcement will be made next week. technical application of accounting standards on a standalone basis, outside of its portfolio In addition, the processes of obtaining financing with KS1, and its merchant revenue Development Consent and Grid Connection exposure. Notwithstanding this, the project Approval are well advanced, as are PPA has been contributing strong revenues since negotiations. energisation and continues to be a valuable cash generating asset for the Group. We have launched an Expression of Interest process today to attract capable EPC We are excited by the rapid development of contractors to the project. the Bouldercombe Battery Project, the first standalone large-scale battery project to be If you are interested in participating please developed in Queensland. This project is an message me with your contact details and I will opportunity for Genex to draw on and apply forward you further information. our extensive experience gained from developing the Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Contact [email protected] Project to capture a significantly enhanced revenue generation profile. We look forward to updating the market as we continue to PROJECT NEWS achieve key project milestones. Metz Solar Farm I would like to thank all our stakeholders, Wynergy is seeking sophisticated investors to particularly NAIF, ARENA, the Queensland help develop its 5 MW, $8mil agrivoltaic Metz Government, JPOWER and EnergyAustralia for Solar Farm located at Werris Creek, in northern their continued support for the K2-Hydro NSW. The minimum investment is $100,000. project.” Interested parties can request more information from [email protected] or Source: Genex Power [email protected].

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Amp Energy Agreement for ''Amp recognises the significant history and culture of the Barngarla People as traditional Lease with the Barngarla owners of the land and sincerely appreciate People of South Australia the support and trust bestowed upon Amp". 31 August said Dean Cooper, Executive Vice President Amp Power Australia Pty Limited, the and Head of Amp Australia. Australian operating company of global developer Amp Energy ("Amp") together with Amp's expansion in Australia will include the initiating project developer EPS Energy have implementation of Amp X, a proprietary digital announced the execution of an Agreement for energy platform owned by Amp, which Lease with the Barngarla Determination provides a disruptive and interoperable grid Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC ("BDAC") for the edge digital platform. Amp X includes an strategically located Yoorndoo Ilga (388 MW) Artificial Intelligence powered Virtual Power solar farm ("YIS") and hybridised 150MW Plant capability, which enables real-time Battery Energy Storage system located in autonomous management and optimised Whyalla, South Australia. dispatch of Battery Energy Storage assets across the grid. The Agreement for Lease relates to land recently secured by BDAC in accordance with Source: Amp Energy Australia the terms of an Indigenous Land Use Agreement with the South Australian Government, which followed the recognition NEW PROJECT of the Barngarla People as native title holders Moah Creek Renewable Energy of large parts of the Upper Spencer Gulf and Eyre Peninsula. Project Location: 30 km west of Rockhampton in The Yoorndoo Ilga Solar Farm is one of three Central Queensland sites announced by Amp with the Capacity: 614 MW establishment of the Renewable Energy Hub of Developers: Energy Estate and RES South Australia ("REHSA") in May 2021. With Status: Feasibility studies underway land secured, once development and other Description: The Moah Creek Renewable approvals are completed, YIS will create up to Energy Project will feature approximately 414 400 equivalent full-time jobs during MW of wind power, 200 MW of solar power construction including the regional workforce, and a BESS of yet-to-be-determined capacity. and will generate electricity production to Two 275kv lines run across the site and the power the equivalent of 100,000 homes each Stanwell substation is 10km to the southeast. year. Total investment in the Whyalla region of It is part of RES and Energy Estate’s larger South Australia would exceed $500 million. integrated Central Queensland Power project (CQP). CQP is a portfolio of wind, solar and The BDAC Board is overwhelmingly supportive battery storage projects with a capacity of over of this deal: "This is a history making deal and 2GW designed to assist in transition of Central we look forward to Amp developing these Queensland’s power supply towards firmed projects on our traditional lands, which we renewable energy and support heavy industry now own in fee simple. We look forward to the in the region. benefits of this project to our members and to Contact: Energy Estate the broader community of Whyalla overall. Email: [email protected] Barngarla are proud to be part of the Website: https://www.moahcreek.com/ renewable energy revolution in Whyalla and could not think of better partners than Amp and EPS to bring this project to fruition", stated BDAC.

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Purchase agreements executed strategy with a number of financing options for green energy power generation projects being for first two BOO sites considered. 31 August - First binding purchase agreements secured Chief Executive Officer Nathan Wise over two 5MW renewable energy commented: “Securing our first purchase developments in NSW and Victoria agreements over two sites is a pleasing - 24,500MWh+ of clean energy to be generated development and marks a material step in from 23,000 Bifacial PV Modules, equivalent advancing our plans to establish a portfolio of capacity to power 3,000+ homes 20 renewable energy sites under our BOO - NSW site expected to be shovel ready within model. The first two locations have been the next three months and revenue generating chosen because they meet our well-defined in early FY2023 site selection criteria of being in attractive - Victorian site expected to be shovel ready by areas with site conditions that are highly end of CY2021 and revenue generating in H1 compatible with solar generating activities. FY2023 “As the total number of sites secured MPower, Australia’s leading specialist continues to scale, the Company’s focus renewable energy, battery storage and continues to shift further towards Build Own microgrid business, is pleased to advise that it Operate activities. Deploying more of the has executed binding purchase agreements for Company’s resources to these initiatives is the first two project sites to advance expected to deliver superior returns and development of its Build Own Operate (BOO) unlock considerable value for shareholders in portfolio of up to twenty 5MW renewable the longer term. This is the focus for our team energy projects that will have an estimated now.” end value of more than $150 million. Narromine Renewable Energy Project The projects, located in Narromine, NSW and The Narromine Renewable Energy Project has Mangalore, Victoria have been selected due to been developed by ITP Renewables and is the high compatibility of the sites for solar located at Narromine, NSW, approximately generating activities. 40km west of Dubbo. The project includes over 12,000 Bifacial PV Modules with the capacity to Asset Purchase Agreements have been produce more than 14,000MWh of electricity executed for the two development projects, in its first year. The project is expected to be with a total combined consideration of $1.3 shovel ready within the next three months and million. Completion of the purchase of each revenue generating in early FY2023. development project will occur when the project is fully permitted and has achieved Mangalore Renewable Energy Project shovel ready status. The purchase price will be The Mangalore Renewable Energy Project has initially funded from existing cash reserves. been developed by Tetris Energy and is located at Mangalore, Victoria, approximately 120km As well as these first two sites, MPower is also north of Melbourne. The project includes over advancing on formal purchase agreements on 11,000 Bifacial PV Modules with the capacity to other development projects over which it has produce more than 10,500MWh of electricity secured exclusivity. in its first year. The project is expected to be shovel ready by the end of CY2021 and Discussions with a number of financiers are revenue generating during H1 FY2023. continuing with MPower working on financing arrangements that will support the planned Source: MPower development of a targeted portfolio of twenty renewable energy projects. The Company is encouraged by the level of interest in the

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Reliability outlook positive as working with the Victorian Government on options to mitigate risks to the power system. energy transition accelerates 31 August In addition to utility scale plants, AEMO AEMO has published its annual reliability forecasts a further 8.9 GW of commercial and outlook, the 2021 Electricity Statement of residential solar PV to be installed by 2025 in Opportunities (ESOO) report, forecasting the mainland NEM states. These solar systems sufficient electricity supply to meet reliability alone could supply up to 77% of total electricity standards for at least the next five years in all demand at times by 2026. As a result, states in the National Electricity Market (NEM). minimum operational demand across the NEM mainland is expected to drop to a record low Developed to help inform the decision-making of 4 to 6 GW by 2025, down from 15 GW in of market participants, investors and policy- 2019. makers, this year’s ESOO observes multiple factors accelerating the transition of the NEM, “Without additional operational tools, AEMO including residential solar installation, coal may no longer be able to operate the mainland plant retirements and growing hydrogen NEM securely in all periods from 2025 due to a development interest. lack of security services when demand from the grid is so low. These conditions may occur AEMO CEO, Daniel Westerman, said that the earlier than 2025 under abnormal network more positive reliability outlook is due to a conditions, such as network and generation combination of newly committed generation, unit outages, possibly associated with storage and transmission developments. bushfires or storms,” Mr Westerman said.

“No reliability gaps are forecast for the next “The Energy Security Board has proposed a five years, primarily due to more than 4.4 suite of reforms to deliver essential system gigawatts (GW) of new generation and storage services that once approved and implemented, capacity, as well as transmission investment will help address these needs. and lower peak demand forecasts,” Mr Westerman said. “Australia’s energy system is transitioning to a decarbonised and decentralised power “Significant renewable energy investments, system, and AEMO is committed to working and well-progressed dispatchable generation collaboratively with market bodies, projects, including gas plants, pumped hydro governments, industry and consumers, who and battery storage, will all help replace are at the centre of the energy transition. retiring thermal plant. The new dispatchable capacity will also enable higher penetrations of “By 2025, there will be periods of time when all low-cost solar and wind generation into the customer demand could be met by renewable market in the coming years. generation. This underscores AEMO’s priority to develop grids that are capable of running at “Approved investment in existing and new up to 100 per cent instantaneous renewable transmission infrastructure, including Project penetration by 2025 to deliver reliable and EnergyConnect linking South Australia and affordable energy to consumers. We aim to do New South Wales, will reduce consumer costs this in close collaboration with industry, by better sharing of energy resources, while consumers, market bodies and governments,” also enhancing resilience and security across he said. the NEM,” he said. Since the 2020 ESOO, planned generator A key risk to reliability remains the possible retirements have been brought forward, unavailability of Yallourn Power Station in the including the Yallourn Power Station (2028), event of a catastrophic rainfall event. AEMO is one unit of (2030) and

Projects highlighted in red appear in our database Page 7 mothballing of one unit of Torrens Island B VRET2 Power Station (October 2021). The Victorian Government has now opened

the Second Victorian Renewable Energy Target In the indicative reliability forecast from 2025- Auction (VRET2) for at least 600 megawatts 26 to 2030-31, reliability gaps would occur in (MW) of new renewable energy capacity in Victoria from 2028-29 and New South Wales Victoria. from 2029-30 if no additional dispatchable energy or transmission projects come into the VRET2 will contribute to the achievement of market. Victoria’s legislated renewable energy targets

of 40% by 2025 and 50% by 2030. “However, there are well-progressed generation, storage and transmission projects, The VRET2 auction plays a key role in fulfilling which, once operational, will maintain the government’s commitment of sourcing 100 reliability as coal plants retire,” Mr Westerman per cent renewable electricity for its own said. operations by 2025. This includes electricity

consumption for Victorian hospitals and Analysis in the ESOO also highlights the schools, Melbourne’s entire train network and accelerated interest in hydrogen production a range of other government infrastructure and electrification, with the potential for and services. consumers and industry, such as transport, switching from other fuels to electricity. VRET2 projects are expected to create at least

2,000 new jobs, attract $1 billion in capital AEMO’s forecasts provide a range of possible expenditure, and put downward pressure on outcomes to 2031, ranging from minimal wholesale electricity prices, reducing bills for electrification of existing and new loads, to the every Victorian household and business. connection of almost 81 hours (TWh) of additional electrified consumption. Beyond the Tender documents; technical FAQs; and next decade, the potential growth due to factsheets to help applicants understand key electrification, hydrogen production and evaluation criteria can be found at the Buying associated zero-emissions industry is forecast for Victoria website. to be even more significant, with NEM consumption potentially doubling by 2050. Applications to the VRET2 auction must be

submitted by 2pm on 9 November 2021. “As the energy transition accelerates, the decarbonisation of other sectors also needs Industry Briefing Session careful planning of their interface with the You are invited to an online Industry Briefing energy system. This will require the right Session to provide an overview of the VRET2 incentives, policies, technologies, and Request for Proposal (RFP) eligibility and importantly building a social licence with evaluation criteria on Wednesday 8 consumers who are increasingly central to our September, 10-11:30 am (AEST). energy future," Mr Westerman said. The session will cover key aspects of the

auction including social procurement, local Source: AEMO content, and planning permit requirements.

Presenters will include representatives from

Department of Environment, Land, Water and

Planning, Department of Jobs, Precincts and

Regions, and the Industry Capability Network.

The presentations will be followed by a Q&A

session.

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Please note that questions can be submitted at Contact CEO Mike Fuge said New Zealand’s high any time (as per RFP requirements), including levels of renewable electricity and the lower prior to the industry forum, up to the end of the South Island’s cooler climate were appealing to clarification period at 5pm on Tuesday 26 data centre operators. “There are environmental October. and economic advantages to being in this part of the world. We expect to see increasing interest You can register for the session via the button from global companies looking for secure, clean, below. After registering via Eventbrite, you will renewable energy sources.” more receive detail about how to attend the Microsoft Teams briefing closer to the date. Mr Fuge said attracting new industrial demand was in line with Contact’s strategy. “This is the Source: Victoria Government first announced project from our pipeline, as we pursue our target to secure over 300 megawatts of market-backed demand opportunities in the lower South Island, reducing New Zealand’s Contact Energy to supply reliance on the Tiwai smelter given its expected closure at the end of 2024. ‘flexible’ renewable electricity for new data centre near Clyde “And of course, the demand flexibility aspect is aligned with our decarbonisation aspirations Dam as it will reduce the volume of thermal 31 August generation needed to back up the national grid Contact Energy (CEN) and its 100%-owned energy in a dry year.” solutions business Simply Energy will supply renewable electricity for a datacentre being Resource consent under way developed near the Clyde Dam by UK-based Following consultation with neighbours, digital infrastructure company Lake Parime. Contact has submitted a resource consent application for the data centre today. It will be The agreement signed with Lake Parime located south of the Clyde Dam, alongside the (lakeparime.com) will see Contact supply Clutha River. 10MW of renewable electricity to operate the planned low-emissions data centre. It will be “We have a range of activity planned to reduce used for high-performance computing any impact of the data centre, Mr Dyer said. applications such as machine learning, This includes landscaping, paint colours, night blockchain, visualisation, modelling and lighting control and design to reduce visual artificial intelligence. impact and absorb noise.”

Lake Parime is working with the team at Simply If resource consent is approved, the data centre Energy to implement ’demand flexibility’ is expected to be up and running by May 2022. technology to ramp the data centre’s operations up and down depending on New New substation Zealand’s electricity needs, weather and hydro As part of the project, Otago water flows. distributor Aurora Energy will build and operate a new substation for the data centre Simply Energy director Murray Dyer said the and this will also bolster electricity connectivity data centre’s electricity load would respond and supply security for the local community. continuously. “We need to ensure New This will form part of Aurora’s considerations Zealand’s energy needs continue to be met as as it plans a future substation replacement in demand for renewable energy increases, and the area in 2025. as more of our energy is sourced from intermittent renewables like wind and solar.” Source: Contact Energy

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Octopus Australia to acquire the 2 year construction period. The project will additionally create indirect employment 180MW Dulacca Wind Farm opportunities through supply chain and the from RES provision of local goods and services. A further 31 August 5 – 10 permanent jobs will be created during • Octopus Australia acquires Dulacca Wind the 30 year operational life of the wind farm. Farm from global renewable energy company RES will continue its involvement in the project RES through the provision of asset management • Queensland Minister for Energy, Renewables services alongside Octopus, including finalizing and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni announces key registrations and engaging RES’ 24/7 Power Purchase Agreement with publicly- Global Control Centre for plant monitoring. owned energy generator CleanCo This is Octopus’ fourth large scale Australian Octopus Australia, part of Octopus Group that renewable asset, with projects in NSW, manages over 260 renewables assets globally Victoria and now Queensland after first has today announced the acquisition of entering the market in 2018. Octopus now has Dulacca Wind Farm from RES, the world’s a dedicated renewable energy team in largest independent renewable energy Australia of 25 people and is responsible for company. Once constructed the wind project, managing over $1 billion, across construction 350km north-west of Brisbane within the and operational assets in the country with Western Downs Region, will consist of 43 wind ambitions to continue this rapid growth. turbines and generate enough electricity to power approximately 124,000 homes. Darren Brown, Octopus Australia’s Investment Director and lead on Dulacca said: “It is great As well as co-existing alongside the agricultural for Octopus to continue our long-standing use of the land, the project will make an active European relationship with two strong contribution towards the Queensland counterparties in RES and Vestas, who Government's target of 50% renewables by between them bring deep wind farm 2030 and will provide much needed generation construction and grid experience in Australia. diversity in this part of the electricity network. Octopus is also looking forward to forging a The project reflects a clear commitment to new long-term relationship with CleanCo as quality site selection, representing a balance our PPA partner. There is great alignment between securing a fantastic wind resource among the parties with CleanCo, RES and while minimising impacts on existing Vestas also sharing our long-term commitment agricultural land use, Aboriginal cultural to the community and helping Australia meet heritage, and significant environmental our renewable energy targets.” features and species. In addition, a community fund of $1.25m will provide funding Sam Reynolds, Octopus Australia’s Managing opportunities for local projects, educational Director commented “Significant wind projects and environmental initiatives, community like Dulacca are key to helping decarbonise groups and organisations within the power generation in Australia. They follow our communities local to the project. strategy of creating a diversified portfolio across location and technology that matches RES’ Construction Management team will what the future of Australian energy should support the delivery of the project by look like. In line with our B Corp certification, managing the EPC and grid connection the community is at heart of everything we do, contracts throughout the AEMO registration and we look forward to continuing the process. During peak construction, up to 150 excellent work RES has done in the local area.” workers will be active on the project site with between 700-800 people expected to directly support the construction of the project over

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Matt Rebbeck, RES’ CEO in Australia said “This NEW PROJECT is yet another quality development project Bulahdelah Solar and Storage from RES and we are grateful for the support Location: Booral Road, Bulahdelah in the of the forward-thinking local council. We are Central Coast of NSW very excited about seeing this project come to Capacity: 5 MW life and seeing the creation of opportunities for Developer: Tetris Energy the local communities, including those through Status: Preparing Development Application for the creation of the community fund. We are the Mid-Coast Council pleased to be continuing our involvement in Description: The 5 MW Bulahdelah Solar and this outstanding project and we are looking Storage project will connect via a direct feeder forward to supporting our partners at Octopus into the Essential Energy system, for which a in the construction and operation of the wind Connection Process Agreement is being farm.” worked through.

Contact: Tetris Capital Debt financing was arranged from a banking Tel: (03) 9448 9400 consortium including CBA, ING, MUFG, SMBC Email: [email protected] and Westpac.

In addition to Octopus Australia’s acquisition of Dulacca Wind Farm, it has been announced Vestas secures 181 MW deal that publicly-owned energy generator CleanCo for Dulacca Wind Farm in Queensland has signed a power purchase agreement with the project owners. The Australia offtake agreement will add a further 126MW 31 August to the 980MW of renewable energy CleanCo Together with RES in Australia, Vestas has has already committed to bring to market over secured a 181 MW deal for Dulacca Wind Farm the next three years. in Queensland, Australia. The project will feature 43 V150-4.2 MW wind turbines which CleanCo CEO Dr Maia Schweizer said the wind Vestas will supply and install. energy generated by the Dulacca Renewable Energy Project would complement CleanCo’s Upon completion, Vestas will also deliver a 30- growing portfolio of renewable energy year Active Output Management 5000 (AOM generation. 5000) service agreement. This agreement will optimise energy production while also “CleanCo’s generation portfolio enables us to providing long-term business case certainty. offer uniquely low-emissions energy to our large commercial and industrial customers. In addition to providing clean energy to Power Purchase Agreements like this one approximately 124,000 homes, Dulacca Wind mean we can offer competitively priced energy Farm will have approximately 150 workers on contracts supported by renewables and our site during the peak of construction. fleet of low-emissions firming generation, guaranteeing supply day and night. The “Thanks to our valued relationship with RES, benefits of these agreements are far-reaching Vestas is proud to be the sustainable energy – our customers meet their sustainability solutions provider of choice and long-term targets at a competitive cost, helping them to service provider for Dulacca Wind Farm”, said remain relevant in a decarbonising world, and Peter Cowling, Head of Vestas Australia and in turn we help Queensland meet our State New Zealand. “From the delivery of the wind emissions targets.” turbines to commissioning and maintenance, we look forward to successfully supporting this Source: Octopus Australia/RES Australia project which will contribute towards the Queensland Government’s target of 50%

Projects highlighted in red appear in our database Page 11 renewables by 2030, and Australia’s broader are seeing at a number of mine sites across clean energy transition”. Australia.

“As the largest installer and maintainer of wind The project includes twenty units of 125kW turbines, both globally and nationally, Vestas is string inverters. The KACO blueplanet 125 TL3 pleased that customers like RES continue to Series was selected for his technical fit with choose our leading technology, market great IP66 rating, good performances under experience and broad service solutions”, said high temperatures and low standby power Purvin Patel, President of Vestas Asia Pacific. consumption. Siemens local team designed “We look forward to continuing to champion these inverters centralized and close to the RES Australia’s ambitious vision of transformers – which minimises AC power sustainability through the successful delivery losses by more than 2% compared to typical of Dulacca Wind Farm”. string inverters which need to be located closer to the PV panels and further away from “RES is pleased to sign our first contract in transformers or grid connection point. Australia with Vestas for the construction and operation of this project. The Dulacca Wind The broader solar project installation has been Farm will bring much needed diversity of facilitated by Nomadic Energy who developed renewables, and valued jobs to the local the solution for the mine, using edge region”, said Matt Rebbeck, CEO of RES in technology such as #5B for the DC side. Australia. This installation joins a growing number of Delivery of Vestas’ wind turbines is expected to mine sites in Australia looking to shift from take place in the second quarter of 2022, with diesel to onsite renewable sources such as commissioning to commence in the first solar energy. quarter of 2023. Source: Siemens Through RES’s commitment to supporting local communities, this project will establish a Community Fund of 1.25 million Australian PROJECT NEWS dollars. As a result, the nearby communities of Aurora Energy Project Dulacca and Drillham will be eligible for the 1414 Degrees Ltd has applied to the state funding of local projects, community groups government to vary its approval for the Aurora and organisations. Energy Project to add a 140 MW Battery

Energy Storage System, a 2 MW Thermal Source: Vestas Energy Storage Solution (TESS), a 33kV

transmission line connection to the electricity

grid, a modified layout of the approved solar

farm development, and modified project Siemens' string inverters is ON! staging. The original project was approved on powering Solar Farm in WA 9 January 2018 and a subsequent variation (essentially to include solar PV) was approved mine on 5 July 2018. The original Aurora project 31 August combined a number of renewable and storage Last week, Siemens string inverters were technologies designed to provide stable and commissioned, and are now powering a reliable clean energy to the grid. The proposed 2.5MW solar farm of Carosue Dam Gold Mine Aurora project has the same intent, but it also in Western Australia. The project will see the proposes to use a TESS-GRID Thermal Energy Mine transition to solar energy (from diesel) Storage System and battery storage for its onsite energy requirements, a trend we technology.

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Financial close for 396MW Rye achieve its corporate emissions reduction target. Park Wind Farm 1 September In addition to local employment opportunities, Tilt Renewables, part of leading Australian during the construction phase the RPWF will renewable energy provider Powering bring local economic benefits through Australian Renewables (PowAR), is pleased to requirements for accommodation, food, fuel announce that construction of the Rye Park and trade equipment and services. Wind Farm (RPWF), the largest ever to be built in NSW, will commence this year having Commercial operation of the RPWF is expected achieved financial close. to be reached in Q1 2024. Once fully commissioned, the project will make the The 396MW wind farm will create an following contributions to the community, the estimated 250 direct jobs during the environment and the PowAR business construction phase and up to 10 ongoing (assuming average wind conditions): regional jobs during its operational life, with - At least $270,000 per year in community opportunities for local workers. funding - Significant local and regional economic, social When fully commissioned in 2024, the RPWF and environmental benefits will be the largest operating wind farm in NSW - Average annual energy production of and will be a key component of the growing 1,188GWh (lifetime P50), equivalent to PowAR renewable energy portfolio. powering approximately 215,000 homes - The project will offset 960,000 tonnes of CO2 PowAR, which completed the acquisition of Tilt per year, which is the equivalent of removing Renewables’ Australian business earlier this approximately 300,000 cars from the road month, is already the largest owner and each year operator of non-hydro renewable energy in - Significant native vegetation and fauna offset Australia, with a portfolio of more than program 1,700MW across operating and under- construction solar and wind assets. PowAR Chief Executive Officer Geoff Dutaillis said achieving financial close on Rye Park RPWF will be constructed on an elevated represented a significant milestone for the ridgeline near the town of Rye Park, near Yass company following the completion of the Tilt in the Southern Tablelands region of NSW. It Renewables acquisition less than one month will utilise 66 Vestas EnVentus V162-6.0MW ago. wind turbines, the latest technology solution from Vestas, maximising energy production “This is considered the first of many and environmental benefits. investment decisions that will be made over the coming years as the combined business Construction activity on site will commence in looks to build out the Tilt Renewables Q4 2021 under a multi-contract structure with development pipeline, which we consider to the following delivery partners: be the best in the market,” he said. - Turbine Supply and Install: Vestas - Electrical and Civil Balance of Plant: Zenviron “We are very pleased to be able to continue - Grid Connection: Lumea our long-standing relationship with our trusted delivery partners, Vestas and Zenviron, to work About 55 per cent of production from the with our valued customer Newcrest and to RPWF has been contracted under a 15-year further enhance our relationship with Lumea power purchase agreement with Newcrest given the strategic importance of the RPWF Mining Limited for the supply of electricity and and our pipeline of development opportunities green products to its Cadia gold mine in NSW. in NSW. The agreement will also assist Newcrest

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“The RPWF will be coming online very soon feedback submissions, and make the final after the foreshadowed closure of the Liddell determination. Power Station in NSW, supporting the transition to a cost-effective, clean energy In 2017, the AEMC approved the introduction system and helping the State reach its of 5MS, with AEMO responsible for updating important energy and environmental market procedures, designing and testing ambitions.” systems, and coordinating an industry Source: Tilt Renewables readiness program.

In essence, 5MS will shift the current 30- PROJECT NEWS minute wholesale electricity spot market Kumbarilla Renewable Energy settlement period to five-minutes, providing a better price signal for investment in faster Park response technologies, such as batteries and Elecseed Pty Ltd has submitted a referral for gas peaking generators. the Kumbarilla Renewable Energy Park (K-REP), 40km west of Dalby in Queensland, to the This involves changes to metering, settlement federal Department of Agriculture Water & and prudentials, and bidding processes, as well Environment for public comment. The as electricity retail and wholesale market proposed action involves the construction and systems. Click here to learn more. operation of a 100 MW photovoltaic (PC) power station on a development site of 200ha AEMO’s Chief Market Services Officer, Violette and an access corridor 40km. The project aims Mouchaileh, said: “This is an important market to deliver two stages of solar farms with green reform that reflects the evolving energy H2 production facilities. Stage 1 will provide system and an initiative that aligns very closely 220GWh of green power to local industries in to AEMO’s priority areas as we navigate the Queensland and pilot scale green H2 energy future to the benefit of the market and production facilities with 250KW electrolysis. all consumers. Stage 2 is expected to consist of an additional 100 MWp solar farm and utility scale green H2 “The extensive stakeholder collaboration has production facilities with 80 MW electrolysis. been valuable for the decision-making process Green H2 in stage 2 will be used for gas and program outcomes, and essential for blending, exporting overseas, local market readiness. consumption for mobility, or energy storage for future use in power grid and gas pipeline. “Informed by, and completed in consultation with, market participants, AEMO’s comprehensive risk and readiness assessment Energy market on track for measured essential criteria required for rule commencement – concluding that the NEM is Five-Minute Settlement rule on track for market start in October,” she said. commencement Some risks to successful operation of the five- 1 September minute market were noted as part of the The Australian Energy Market Operator readiness assessment and mitigations and (AEMO) today confirmed that the National contingency plans for these risks have been Electricity Market (NEM) is ready to introduce identified. Five-Minute Settlement (5MS) on 1 October

2021, in accordance with the rule. October 2021 will also see the soft start of

Global Settlement (GS), a framework for the The Australian Energy Market Commission settlement of the wholesale electricity market. (AEMC) will meet mid-September to discuss This aligns the development of systems and AEMO’s recommendation, and any industry

Projects highlighted in red appear in our database Page 14 procedures for both changes, reducing In addition to the Marinus Link transmission implementation costs. GS will fully commence line, passage of this Bill will help progress a on 1 May 2022. number of projects that are already under development including ‘Star of the South’ off For more information about the upcoming rule the coast of Gippsland, Victoria, and ‘Sun commencement and the 5MS program, visit Cable’ in our north. our dedicated webpage. Combined, Marinus Link, Star of the South and Source: AEMO Sun Cable are estimated to be worth over $10 billion and are expected to create over 10,000 direct and indirect job opportunities during construction. Introducing legislation to The legislation covers infrastructure projects unlock investment in offshore for offshore electricity transmission cables and energy projects offshore renewable energy generation, including offshore wind and ensures co- 2 September existence with other users of the offshore area The Morrison Government has today would be managed from the start. introduced legislation to deliver on our commitment to unlock a wave of new The legislation safeguards the environment investment in offshore electricity generation and requires project developers to make and transmission projects. financial commitments to properly

decommission projects when they are no The Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Bill 2021 longer productive. This ensures tax payers do will establish a framework for the construction, not foot the bill for removal of any retired operation, maintenance and decommissioning assets in the future. of offshore electricity projects.

Under the legislation, the National Offshore “An offshore electricity industry in Australia Petroleum Titles Administrator (NOPTA) will will further strengthen our economy, create oversee licences for offshore projects, while jobs and opportunities for Australians, and the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and enhance the delivery of affordable and reliable Environmental Management Authority power,” Minister Taylor said. (NOPSEMA) will have oversight of ongoing

operations and safety. “A new offshore industry, enabled by this Bill, represents an important new opportunity for This legislation follows through on a Australia. commitment the Morrison Government took

to the 2019 election. Significant consultation “Offshore generation and transmission can with a wide range of industry and stakeholders deliver significant benefits to all Australians has informed the development of this world- through a more secure and reliable electricity leading regulatory framework. system, and create thousands of new jobs and business opportunities in regional Australia. Source: Federal Government

“Importantly this Bill will accelerate a number of projects already under development like the Marinus Link transmission line, which will connect the mainland to Tasmania’s Battery of the Nation project."

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Star of the South welcomes Offshore wind can make the challenge of transitioning to a clean energy system more historic moment for offshore achievable – offsetting the loss of existing wind in Australia generation as it exits the market and building 2 September new generation close to load centres, reducing Australia’s first offshore wind project is one the need for significant new transmission step closer thanks to the Australian infrastructure. Government today introducing important legislation to enable clean energy projects to Star of the South involves turbines in the sea be built and operated off Australia’s coast. and underground cables connecting to the Latrobe Valley, powering Victorian homes. To Star of the South welcomes the introduction of find out more visit starofthesouth.com.au. the Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Bill and supports Minister Taylor’s and the Australian Quotes attributable to Star of the South CEO, Government’s move to create a local offshore Casper Frost Thorhauge wind industry. “We welcome the introduction of the Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Bill to the Australian The Bill helps pave the way for the up to 2.2GW Parliament and acknowledge the work of project off the coast of the Gippsland, which Minister Taylor and the Commonwealth would harness Bass Strait’s strong offshore Government in prioritising this important wind – powering homes with clean energy and legislation.” creating thousands of jobs. “We will look at the Bill in detail to understand Star of the South will consider the detail of the what it means for developing Star of the South Bill over the coming days but is pleased with off the coast of Gippsland.” Government’s strong commitment to work with industry to reduce regulatory barriers, “This legalisation is a key step to realising enabling ongoing investment from the Australia’s offshore wind potential and project’s partners Copenhagen Infrastructure unlocking the associated economic benefits, Partners. including providing opportunities for the nation’s strong resources and maritime This is a clear signal to the global offshore wind sectors.” market that there is a strong appetite to establish a new industry in Australia – led by “We are excited to help create Australia’s Star of the South in Gippsland. offshore wind industry and continue Gippsland’s proud history of power generation Offshore wind represents a strong economic into the future – supporting new local jobs and opportunity for Australia with modelling transitioning skills.” demonstrating an estimated 3,000 direct jobs and more than $10 billion of wider economic Quotes attributable to Copenhagen benefits resulting from 2.2GW of offshore wind Infrastructure Partners Partner, Michael in Gippsland – primarily in regional Australia. Hannibal “We are pleased to see the regulatory Star of the South is working together with framework to build and operate offshore wind Gippsland’s energy leaders and representative farms in Australia take an important next bodies on opportunities for Latrobe Valley step.” workers and businesses to participate in the region’s future offshore wind industry, “The Australian Government has shown continuing Gippsland’s proud history of leadership in removing barriers to investment powering the nation with skilled workers. in technology that will reduce emissions,

Projects highlighted in red appear in our database Page 16 create regional jobs, and provide affordable “Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners has been and reliable power to Australians. instrumental in commercialising offshore wind globally, and we are motivated to bring these “We look forward to the legislation being benefits to Australia, starting with Star of the passed and thank the Australian Government South.” for its support to develop a new offshore wind market.” Source: Star of the South

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