Another ray of light for Australia
Setting the scene
Australia is a key market for BayWa r.e. and we’re proud to be playing a major role in its renewable energy transition. Although entering the market relatively recently, we already have four wind and three solar projects underway.
Our latest Karadoc project, in north-western Victoria, is one of Australia’s largest solar farms, generating enough power to supply the equivalent of 65,000 Australian homes.
Karadoc will play an important role in helping the state of Victoria to meet its 25 percent renewables target by 2020 and 40 per cent by 2025. Together, our wind and solar projects are supporting Australia’s renewable energy transition and we are proud to be part of the country’s move to clean green energy.
Meeting the challenge
The Karadoc solar installation comprises more than 340,000 solar panels over 664-acres. It’s an impressive sight, and on a scale of other solar farms in Australia. The smart system design incorporates the latest solar tracking technology where panels rotate with the sun, maximising every ray of light.
It goes hand-in-hand that the country’s largest solar farm requires the resource of a large and experienced team. Over 300 local employees have been involved in Karadoc’s construction. In partnership with the Sunraysia Institute of TAFE, 25 apprentices have been able to take part in the new Solar Industry Career Pathway program.
The local benefits go even further. The project has created over 40 employment opportunities through the jobs Victoria Employment Network (JVEN) - placements that help local people into employment and train them for jobs in the renewables’ industry – one of Australia’s huge growth markets.
Our ability to meet construction timescales has been critical in matching the state of Victoria’s renewable targets with business solutions.
Getting the result
Before construction was completed, we already had a 12-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with major Australian brewer, Carlton & United Breweries (CUB) in place. The deal was one of Australia’s first PPA contracts recognised and encouraged by the government.
Karadoc will provide 74,000 MWh of power per year for the brewer, helping to combat climate change and contribute towards CUB’s goal to source 100 percent of its electricity from renewables. To ensure the installation continues to operate at peak performance our technical team will continue to provide expert operations and maintenance services.
CUB is absolutely committed to delivering on an ambitious environmental and sustainability agenda. Moving to renewable energy will ensure that we have certainty of supply and pricing.
CEO of Carlton & United Breweries