Large scale solar on the horizon in the ACT

At least two major solar commercial facilities will be able to be constructed in the ACT, with new legislation that has passed the Legislative Assembly today, Minister for the Environment and Sustainable Development, Simon Corbell, has announced.

"The passage of this important bill through the Legislative Assembly allows the Labor Government to move ahead with its vision to make Canberra Australia's solar capital and start to make the shift from non-renewable energies to clean alternatives," Mr Corbell said.

"The Bill also sets out the details for large companies to access the solar feed-in tariff, which has been outlined as a key requirement of any groups to roll out a commercial solar facility in the ACT.

"This is the first time in Australia large scale solar projects would be given access to a feed-in tariff."

The construction of more than one solar facility could provide as much as 14% of the minimum electricity demand of the ACT and the equivalent of power for 7000 homes.

Under the Electricity Feed In (Large Scale Renewable Energy Generation) Act 2011, industry will have an opportunity to compete for establishment of 40MW of solar generation from large scale facilities in the ACT.

"It is expected the first release of 40 MW will reduce emissions by around 850,000 tonnes over its 20 year life, bringing the ACT closer its targets of carbon neutrality by 2060," Mr Corbell said.

"Creating a clean energy industry in the ACT requires the commitment of government, businesses, communities and individuals and I am pleased this has been recognised in the Assembly today," said Mr Corbell.

"I am pleased that the ACT Labor Government has led the change to see Canberra become Australia's solar capital, and am excited to see what progress can now be made by industry, with this legislation successfully passed by the Assembly."

For further information visit www.environment.act.gov.au/energy/solar_auction