This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
CIMIC Group company Pacific Partnerships have locked down a deal to develop Glenrowan Solar Farm for 10 years after signing a contract with the Victorian government.
Pacific Partnerships are a leading infrastructure developer and with their energy business Pacific Partnerships Energy, they’re teaming up with fellow CIMIC Group company, UGL who will undertake construction, operations and maintenance of the solar farm.
CIMIC has a strong history of delivering leading-edge renewable energy projects such as wind and solar, through CPB Contractors and UGL.
Group executive chairman of CIMIC Juan Santamaria said: “We are committed to supporting the clean energy transition and to working with the State of Victoria to supply green energy and certificates to match electricity used by Victorian hospitals and schools, Melbourne’s entire train network and a range of other Victorian government infrastructure and services.”
The 10-year power purchase agreement will create investment certainty for 130MWdc (megawatts, direct current/102MWac (megawatts, alternating current) of new clean energy developed to reduce carbon emissions while investing in local communities. The solar farm is 245-hectares in size and it is expected to generate a level of electricity capable of powering around 45,000 homes.
Pacific Partnerships managing director Simon Nicholls says that the agreement is beneficial in more ways than one and opens up an array of opportunities.
“The power purchase agreement for Glenrowan Solar Farm unlocks local benefits for jobs, business and community initiatives,” Nicholls said.
“As part of our Community Engagement and Social Benefit Sharing Plan, we are establishing a Community Reference Group to develop opportunities with local residents, businesses and community groups.”
Pacific Partnerships tendered for the agreement under the Victorian Renewable Energy Target 2 (VRET2) reverse auction process, designed to support the State achieving its legislated renewable energy target of 50% by 2030.
UGL has commenced the early stages of the design, procurement and construction planning processes for the project. Operations and renewable energy generation will likely commence towards the end of 2023.
