Australia’s Renewable Remote Power Program to Help Power Three More Indigenous Communities

Three remote Indigenous communities will soon be powered from cleaner energy sources, with help from the Australian and Northern Territory Governments.

Federal Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts, Peter Garrett and Northern Territory Chief Minister, Paul Henderson today announced funding of $10.8 million to help bring cleaner energy in the isolated Northern Territory Indigenous communities of Alekerange, Ti Tree and Kalkarindji.

“The Australian Government will provide $6.6 million under the Renewable Remote Power Generation Program to build a total of 40 new solar dish concentrators which will reduce community reliance on diesel-powered generators,” Mr Garrett said.

“The roll-out of solar power stations in remote Indigenous communities is an exciting example of how we are shaping a solar future for all Australians, no matter where they live.

“While the projects will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 2000 tonnes each year, they also include broader benefits such as improved health and employment opportunities.”

Two eight-dish, 280 kilowatt concentrating solar power stations will be built at Ti Tree and Kalkarindji, and a 24-dish, 840 kilowatt power station will be built at Alekerange.

Chief Minister Paul Henderson said that the new solar concentrating dishes at Kalkarindji, 480km south west of Katherine, would help power important community buildings such as the town’s police station, women’s center, health clinic and family center, and schools.

“Ti Tree, 180km north of Alice Springs, has a population of just over 200 and services many of the surrounding Aboriginal communities. Ti Tree has expanding horticultural activities and some of the solar power generated will be used for water pumping and irrigation, and a horticulture cool-room,” Mr Henderson said.

“Alekerange’s new solar power will be part of its Centrefarm horticulture development, which provides community employment. The additional power will reduce fluctuations in its electricity supply and will allow the community to install the refrigeration needed to maximize commercial opportunities from its farm.”

The remaining costs will be met by Solar Systems, who will be building the solar power stations. Solar Systems has a successful record in implementing high concentration solar photovoltaic projects in remote locations.

Solar Systems estimate that the solar power stations in Kalkarindji and Ti Tree will displace a combined total of around 300,000 liters of diesel per year.
Net News Publisher