Solar innovation key to net zero transition

The Australian Government’s $1 billion Solar Sunshot Program has officially kicked off, with the first project receiving $46 million in funding to roll out innovative solar products for commercial use. 

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) awarded company 5B funding to increase capacity of its automated solar deployment system. The 5B system uses prefabricated, prewired panels. Its design allows it to be folded into shipping containers like an accordion, allowing solar to be set up onsite at up to 10 times the current speed.

The 5B systems are expected to produce at least 200 MW of units at their Adelaide manufacturing facility over the next three years. 

Solar farms will play a significant role in reducing Australia’s emissions and reaching net zero by 2050.

Large-scale solar farms and battery projects are operating throughout Australia, including in the Net Zero Economy Authority’s current priority regions of Central Queensland, Collie, LaTrobe and the Hunter Valley.

In late May, the NSW Independent Planning Commission approved a $300 million Muswellbrook Solar Farm, a 135MW project that will include a 135MW battery. It is expected to power over 52,000 homes and create nine full-time jobs and 20 construction jobs.

The Aldoga Solar Farm, located in Central Queensland, will generate approximately 380MW of electricity. The solar photovoltaic facility is estimated to involve 350 construction jobs and 10 full-time operational roles.

The Frasers Solar Farm, located in the La Trobe Valley, is estimated to generate 77MW, powering over 29,000 homes. The project is expected to create business and tourism opportunities and also be used for vertical farming, with sheep grazing the lower layer grass land under the panels.