NSW Minister for Resources and Energy Anthony Roberts recently visited AGL Energy’s $290 million Nyngan Solar Plant in western NSW, to mark the installation of the one millionth solar photovoltaic (PV) module.
When completed, the solar plant will have a capacity of 102 megawatts (MW) and will produce enough electricity to power 33,000 homes. Mr Roberts said AGL’s solar plant, the largest utility-scale solar PV plant in the nation, was a clear demonstration of the progress being made in NSW to increase the share of renewables in our energy mix.
“The NSW Government is committed to a secure, reliable, affordable and clean energy future for households and businesses in NSW,” Mr Roberts said.
“We are driving the growth of the renewable energy sector in NSW as part of the State’s secure and affordable energy mix.
“The NSW Government, through our Renewable Energy Action Plan, has provided more than $64.9 million in funding to ensure this project is a success, and we are delighted to see it will be delivered on time and on budget.
“First generation from the plant is expected to occur by next month, with the plant fully operational by July this year.”
Parliamentary Secretary for Renewable Energy, Leslie Williams, said through funding from the NSW Government and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), a second plant was under construction by AGL in the State’s far west.
“The 53 MW Broken Hill Solar Plant will see a further 17,000 homes in NSW powered by renewable energy,” Mrs Williams said.
“We are driving forward with our support for clean energy projects, delivering jobs to regional communities and growing investment in local economies.”
Member for Barwon, Kevin Humphries, said the building of the plant had been a boon for the local economy.
“More than 250 jobs were created during the peak of construction,” Mr Humphries said.
“This has been a fantastic time for Nyngan, with the local economy reaping the benefits of increased spending in local shops from construction workers.
“This has meant more money flowing into the coffers for those local shop owners in the hospitality, food and beverage, and retail sectors.”
“The NSW Government is taking practical steps towards our vision for a secure, reliable, affordable and cleaner energy future for NSW households and businesses,” Mr Roberts said.
