Australia green lights world’s ‘largest’ solar hub
SunCable plans to deliver 2 gigawatts of power to Singapore
Daily TribuneSunCable plans to deliver 2 gigawatts of power to Singapore
Australia is moving forward with plans for a massive solar project, with energy production expected to begin in 2030
STR / AFP/File
SYDNEY (AFP) — Australia on Wednesday approved plans for a massive solar and battery farm that would export energy to Singapore, a project it calls the “largest solar precinct in the world.”
Authorities announced environmental approvals for SunCable’s US$24-billion project in Australia’s remote north that is slated to power three million homes.
The project, which will include an array of panels, batteries and, eventually, a cable linking Australia with Singapore, is backed by tech billionaire and green activist Mike Cannon-Brookes.
“It will be the largest solar precinct in the world — and heralds Australia as the world leader in green energy,” said Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek.
It is hoped that energy production will begin in 2030.
The 12,000-hectare project will provide four gigawatts of energy per hour for domestic use.
Two more gigawatts sent to Singapore via undersea cable will supply about 15 percent of the city-state’s needs.
Batteries would be able to store about 40 gigawatts of power.
SunCable Australia’s managing director Cameron Garnsworthy said the approval was “a landmark moment in the project’s journey.”
Despite Wednesday’s green light, numerous approval processes remain — including working with Singapore’s energy market authority, Indonesia’s government and Australian Indigenous communities.
“SunCable will now focus its efforts on the next stage of planning to advance the project towards a final investment decision targeted by 2027,” Garnsworthy said.
‘Clean energy powerhouse’
Australia is currently one of the world’s leading exporters of coal and gas, but has also been ravaged by the effects of climate change — from intense heat to floods and bushfires.
Although Australians are among the world’s most enthusiastic adopters of household solar panels, a string of governments have been slow to fully embrace renewables.
In 2022, renewables made up 32 percent of Australia’s total electricity generation — compared to coal, which contributed 47 percent, according to the latest government data.
