The project
The large exhibition venue in South Australia was chosen due to large roof space and high visibility. The installation of the panels was challenging, given that the project spread over six buildings, and the work had to be completed around events at the showground. Despite this, the installation was completed two months ahead of schedule.
Technology
Thin film photovoltaic (PV) technology was chosen for the low temperature coefficient and thus higher yield than crystalline panels.
Power purchase and supply
The plant is expected to produce
1.4 gigawatt hours of electricity per annum and is the largest PV system in Australia.
Power generated from the project is used onsite, with excess power sold to an electricity retailer. A generator operates intermittently according to solar radiation. The project is registered as a Large Embedded Generator with ETSA Utilities, the operator of the South Australian electricity distribution network, and is an accredited generator under the Mandatory Renewable Energy Target scheme. The plant is connected to ETSA 11 kVA feeders.
The project, which was funded by the South Australian Government, is expected to save 1,450 tonnes per annum of greenhouse gas emissions – this is equivalent to removing 345 cars from the road per annum.
Further information:
Owner
John Rothwell
Royal Agricultural & Horticultural Society of South Australia
Tel: 08 8210 5211
Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Key engineering firm and equipment supplier
Liam Hunt
Solar Shop Australia Pty Ltd
Tel: 08 8211 0100
Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Construction contractor
Karen Dale
Built Environs Pty Ltd
Tel: 0410 314 286
Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
