Robertson Barracks solar project to power Territory’s biggest Defence base
More than 27,000 solar panels have been built east of Darwin, but they won’t power local homes. See how the renewable energy will be used.
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More than 27,000 solar panels have been built in the Top End to power the Territory’s biggest Defence base.
A major solar farm will come into operation at Robertson Barracks by the end of the year, producing and storing enough renewable energy to power about 40 per cent of the base’s needs.
The project marks the biggest of its kind in Australia, with the federal government spending $64m on building another nine solar farms across the country’s Defence bases.
Assistant Minister for Defence Matt Thistlethwaite visited Robertson Barracks on Tuesday to spruik the major solar farm and the Territory’s role in storing renewable energy.
“Five (of the 10 projects) are in the Northern Territory – there’s Larrakeyah, Harts Range, RAAF Tindal, Darwin and Robertson Barracks,” Mr Thistlethwaite said.
“The reason for that is quite simple, the Northern Territory has an abundance of sunlight.
“Defence is the largest land owner in the country – 70 bases throughout the country.
“We have an abundance of land so it makes sense to make sure we’re investing in renewable energy projects throughout the country.
“More investment in renewables helps to deliver Defence savings on energy costs so that more can be invested in capability into the future.”
Mr Thistlethwaite said the 11 megawatt solar farm, which has a 2.5 megawatt battery, would also reduce pressure on local energy grids.
Solomon MP Luke Gosling said the project would be important in the federal government’s emissions reductions goals.
“It’s crucial that our personnel have secure, independent and uninterrupted power supplies, and this renewable energy investment will help to achieve that,” he said.
Mr Thistlethwaite said 18 Territory businesses were engaged in the project’s construction including six First Nations businesses.
The Minister’s visit coincides with the 81st Bombing of Darwin commemoration on Sunday.
Robertson Barracks is also in line for almost $400m in upgrades, delivering with it more than 1000 Territory jobs.
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