Darwin international Airport has started to use power from a 4MW solar PV solar array developed by Northern Territory-based firm CAT projects.
The first stage of the array will provide a significant amount of the airport’s energy usage, with another 1.5MW due to be installed within stage two by the end of this year.
Private sector investor Northern Territory Airports has invested AU$13 million (US$9.97 million) in the project.
Stage 1, which started construction last December, comprises 15,000 solar panels over six hectares and will produce electricity equivalent to the consumption of 1,000 households.
It is expected to meet up to 100% of the airport’s peak energy demand in the middle of the day and to generate 25% of the airport’s overall energy needs. It is also forecast to reduce the airport’s power bills by AU$1.5 million per year, based on current peak tariff rates.
UGL was in charge of EPC.
