Jan 14, 2016 - The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has announced shortlisted projects under its $100 million
Anthony Roberts Minister for Industry, Resources and Energy
MEDIA RELEASE Thursday, 14 January 2016
NSW SOLAR FARMS SHORTLISTED FOR FUNDING Minister for Industry, Resources and Energy, Anthony Roberts today welcomed the announcement that eight NSW solar farm projects have been shortlisted for millions of dollars in funding. The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has announced shortlisted projects under its $100 million Competitive Funding Round for large-scale solar installations. “NSW leads the nation for large-scale solar installations and the State’s regional areas stand to gain the most from these developments with six of the solar projects located in the Central West, one in the South East and another in New England,” Mr Roberts said. “Renewable energy supports investment and jobs in local communities and plays an important role in promoting energy security in the State. “These eight projects have a total capacity of 242 megawatts (which is enough electricity to power about 85,000 homes) and are worth an estimated $500 million in investment for the State”. NSW is already home to Australia’s largest solar plant in Nyngan (102 megawatts which can power 33,000 NSW homes), as well as two other solar farms in Broken Hill and Moree, and has contributed $64.9 million towards the Solar Flagships Project. “The knowledge and expertise gained from these leading projects has put NSW in prime position for future large scale solar installations,” Mr Roberts said. “About 35 per cent of Australia’s renewable energy businesses have headquarters in NSW, the sector currently supports approximately 15,000 jobs and today’s announcement has the potential to significantly add to that figure particularly in regional NSW.” The shortlisted projects have until 15 June, 2016 to make full applications to ARENA for funding with a maximum of $30 million available per project.
The Clean Energy Finance Corporation also has a $250 million large-scale solar financing program available for projects. “Under the State’s Renewable Energy Action Plan, the NSW Government will continue to work with and encourage solar companies looking to invest in our state. “I would like to thank ARENA for their support in growing our renewable energy industry,” Mr Roberts said. Large Scale Solar PV Competitive Round - PFA Short List Organisation
