Australia-based energy company Genex Power has received development approval for its 150MW Kidston Solar PV project in Northern Queensland, which would be the largest solar plant in Australia once complete.
Etheridge Shire Council has approved the project, which is to be developed in stages and will supply electricity to the National Electricity Market for the equivalent of 51,000 households. The first 50MW phase of the feasibility study is expected to be completed in 2016. Genex is also working closely with engineering design firm AECOM as well as contractors for a competitive EPC tendering process. The solar plant will be co-located with the Kidston Pumped Storage project on the site of the Kidston Gold Mine.
Genex managing director Michael Addison said: “Genex appreciates the support of the Etheridge Shire Council. The Project is expected to employ a significant number of people in the local area and the Project continues to enjoy strong community support.”
AGL Energy and First Solar recently completed Australia’s two largest solar PV plants at Nyngan (102MW) and Broken Hill (53MW).