Strong industry interest in ACT solar power facility

According to a recent press release from Simon Corbell, ACT Minister for Environment, Climate Change, and Water and Minister for Energy and Industry, a recent consultation session marked the first step in the formal process for an ACT Solar Facility.

“Thirty-eight registrants attended the Industry Consultation Session, which marks the first formal step in the procurement process,” Corbell said. “I am very encouraged by the strong level of interest from industry in establishing a large-scale solar power facility in the ACT. The ACT government is strongly committed to investing in renewable energy and in making the ACT the solar capital. Our interest in establishing a solar power facility received a boost when a feasibility study undertaken last year indicated that a solar power facility was feasible in the ACT.

“Following this study, the ACT government took steps to test the market to ensure it received the widest range of proposals possible. The government has also pledged $30 million towards the construction of a solar power facility.”

The government was seeking to employ commercially proven technology and was not committed to any particular technology or operating model at this stage.

“The government has indicated it is seeking proposals for the development and implementation of a facility with a minimum capacity of 80,000 MWh per year which would produce enough power for at least 10,000 homes in the ACT,” Corbell continued. “The government recognises the importance of fully engaging with the community on a project of this scope and significance, and most particularly in relation to the potential siting of the facility.

“We will shortly announce the details of the community consultation process and look forward to receiving community feedback on all aspects of the proposal.”

The government expects to formally call for expressions of interest around the end of March with a request for proposals process to begin around July 2009. An announcement about the successful proponent is anticipated at the end of 2009 or beginning of 2010.