The largest Tasmanian solar farm will supply energy to the state grid as well as helping farmers offset energy bills.
Wesley Vale Solar Farm is on track to produce up to 25,600 MWh of electricity per year. This is enough to power 2,900 homes.
Meanwhile, the 12.5 MW Epuron Projects Pty Ltd scheme and a smaller Powercom Solar array are both awaiting permits from Latrobe Council.
Because Tasmanian energy prices have doubled over the last five years, the projects will boost farmers’ fortunes on the north-west coast of Tasmania.
According to Powercom General Manager Rohan Windsor, farmers are showing new interest in solar panels due to climbing power bills. This will help them offset around 30 to 40 per cent of their costs.
Larger farms also have energy costs of up to $500,000, he says. Ongoing reductions of 30 per cent are therefore significant.
Largest Tasmanian solar farm suits Apple Isle climate
Because the north-west coast receives ample summer sunshine without intense heat, it is a good candidate for solar power.
Epuron Projects Manager Shane Bartel says the company chose their site because of its strong solar resource, ideal climate and proximity to the Wesley Vale sub-station.
According to Mr Bartel, two options for Wesley Vale Solar Farm include fixed solar panels and tracking arrays sited around the 35-hectare property. Arrays follow the sun as it moves through the sky.
Epuron plans to connect to the local network with the aim of feeding power back to Tasmania’s grid.
The proposed solar farm at 213 Mill Road is close to Devonport Airport. Once approved, construction would start late 2018 and progress in stages.
Solar power valuable addition to Tasmanian renewable mix
The state is working towards zero net emissions by 2050. Increasing numbers of Tasmanian households are installing solar panels and home battery storage.
Late in 2017, the Tasmanian Liberal government pledged investment of $250,000 towards the creation of electric vehicle charging stations across the state.
The proposed Granville Harbour Wind Farm will comprise up to 33 wind turbine generators with total maximum output of 99 MW.
Pumped hydro energy storage potential is also being explored in Tasmania. The Australia National University is mapping hundreds of possible storage sites across the nation.
The two solar projects are a valuable addition to the state’s renewable energy mix. The Powercom application is for a smaller fixed array scheme at 32 Cherry Hill Road.
