Short list revealed for Stage 2 of ACT solar facility project

Following an extensive review of the 23 expressions of interest from 18 consortia, from both within Australia and internationally, for the second stage of the ACT solar facility, the ACT Government has short-listed 10 proponents to develop detailed solar energy proposals for assessment. The government also indicated that it would provide $30 million of support to assist in the development of the facility.

The successful proponents for Stage 2 are Abengoa Solar, ActewAGL, Elementus, EMC Solar, Leighton Contractors, Meridian Energy, Rural Funds Management, Solar Shop Australia, Transfield Holdings and Wizard Power Group.

In announcing the decision, the Minister for Energy, Simon Corbell, stated: “The development of a large-scale solar power facility, capable of powering at least 10,000 ACT homes is an exciting project which could help our community become carbon neutral by 2060. I am pleased to announce the short-list of 10 successful proponents who will now be asked to prepare detailed technical and financial proposals for further assessment.”

“Technology types proposed by the successful Stage 2 consortia include solar thermal technologies utilising dishes and parabolic troughs, photovoltaic (PV) panels, Fresnel lens and towers with heliostats. A small number of companies gave the option of storage and co-generation to enhance the overall output and consistency of supply from the facility.”

The ACT Government has not made any decision regarding the solar technology that could be used for the facility.

“The government will also ask short-listed respondents to consider how their proposal could be involved in the Australian Government’s Solar Flagships Program, to further facilitate the potential development of an ACT solar facility,” Corbell added. “Commencement of the second stage will allow the government to assess, in detail, the viability of the proposals and whether the project can proceed to development. The assessment of Stage 2 proposals is expected to be completed in mid-to-late 2010.”