Canadian Solar has received consent from the New South Wales government for a significant 250-MW solar-plus-storage project in Gunning, located about 260 km southwest of Sydney. This AU$651 million (US$429 million) initiative will feature a 150-MW/600-MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) designed for a four-hour duration, enhancing grid stability on Australia's National Electricity Market (NEM).

Utilizing Canadian Solar's Bifacial 690W+ modules, the Gunning solar PV plant will include two 330kV transmission lines and an on-site electrical substation to connect with transmission operator Transgrid. With an expected operational lifespan of 35 years, construction is projected to last approximately 18 months. The site, currently used for sheep grazing, represents a vital addition to New South Wales' growing renewable infrastructure.

Paul Scully, New South Wales Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, emphasized the project's role in advancing the state's goal of net zero emissions by 2050, while also fostering local job growth in the expanding solar sector. Community engagement is integral to the project, with Canadian Solar committing AU$4.7 million for community benefits over the plant's operational life, including road upgrades in nearby Lade Vale.

This announcement follows other recent approvals in New South Wales for solar-plus-storage projects, underscoring the region's accelerating transition to renewable energy.

Source: pv-tech.org