Aggreko to install two solar farms on Gove Peninsula

Aggreko, a world leader in modular power supply, will install two 5.25MW solar farms under an agreement with Rio Tinto, bringing renewable energy to communities on the Gove Peninsula, including the Northern Territory township of Nhulunbuy.

Aggreko and Rio Tinto Gove will extend their existing power supply agreement for a further 10 years, and Aggreko will supply and maintain two new 5.25 MW solar farms. Once operational, the two solar farms are expected to significantly reduce the region’s reliance on diesel-generated power and introduce more sustainable options. The solar farms are expected to reduce the power station’s diesel consumption by around 20%.

The solar farms will be built on Rio Tinto leases following an agreement with the Gumatj and Rirratjingu traditional owner groups on the siting of the facilities, helping to secure a low-carbon future for the Gove community once mining operations cease at the end of the decade.

Rio Tinto Gove Chief Operating Officer Steve Dunstone said: “We are committed to our role in helping to plan for the region’s future, which includes providing reliable, affordable and environmentally sustainable infrastructure options such as solar power.

“We are working with the Northern Territory Government and traditional owners to ensure a smooth transition of leased lands, municipal assets and infrastructure as Rio Tinto prepares to cease mining at the end of this decade.”

George Whyte, Managing Director of Aggreko Asia Pacific, added: “Aggreko is pleased that the long-standing partnership between Aggreko and Rio Tinto Gove will continue for another 10 years. The introduction of the two solar farms will contribute to the decarbonisation of the region.”

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Read the article online at: https://www.energyglobal.com/solar/03072024/aggreko-to-install-two-solar-farms-in-gove-peninsula/