SIMON Corbell says an expression of interest process for up to 50MW capacity of next generation solar infrastructure has been launched today.

“Our investment in next generation renewable energy technology is an important part of our target of 90% renewable energy by 2020 but it is also critical in continuing the growth of renewable energy jobs and investment in the ACT,” Simon said.

“The ACT Government is targeting next generation solar, including energy storage and new renewable energy technologies, in its plans to reduce emissions, grow the renewable energy industry in the territory, and position Canberra as an internationally recognised centre for renewable energy innovation and investment.

The next generation solar initiative seeks to contribute to the wide-spread commercial development of solar-related technologies that address issues of reliability and intermittency while supporting the development of the renewable energy industries in the ACT.

“Cost-effective storage of renewable energy will be a game-changer for the energy industry, and would allow us to keep, for example, energy generated by solar during the day for use at peak times during the evening,” Mr Corbell said.

“The EOI process will provide an opportunity for well prepared parties to submit proposals to the government for assessment and consideration. These proposals must be for a “next generation” solar system located in or around the ACT, or potentially more broadly in the National Electricity Market.

“Information gathered through this EOI process will also be used by government to inform any future schemes which may include direct grants or reverse auction processes.

“There are many options for storage of renewable energy, including battery and thermal storage, and pump and store hydro, and includes fixed storage devices at homes or businesses across the territory,” Mr Corbell said.

“This is an exciting time for renewable energy globally and I hope to see many bright ideas come forward as part of this EOI process, highlighting Canberra as a knowledge hub for renewable energy investment.”

Expressions of Interested are invited from today until 3pm, 17 June 2015.

[Photo by Russ Ferriday attribution licence]