Blacktown City Council doubles solar generation

Blacktown City Council has doubled its solar generation capacity in what is claimed to be Australia’s largest rooftop solar power purchase agreement (PPA), with installation courtesy of commercial solar installer Solar Professionals.

Completed in early October, the project comprises 1876 Risen Energy panels located across 16 separate sites — including leisure and aquatic centres, libraries, childcare facilities and community centres — and is a first of its kind for local government in Australia, whereby the system is paid for, installed and operated by a single solar provider.

The 707 kW project will contribute to the reduction of Blacktown City Council’s electricity use by nearly 3% per year, and its power bill by $170,000 per year.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said that the council acknowledges that Australia is in a state of climate emergency and that they are committed to a target of 100% renewable electricity for council operations by 2025. He recognised the importance of going solar in meeting that goal.

“Doubling our solar generation capacity will contribute greatly to meeting that target by increasing our use of solar electricity and reducing emissions,” he said.

Risen Energy Australia General Manager Eric Lee said the company is thrilled to supply its high-technology panels to this initiative.

“Risen is heartened that our panels will play a part in supporting the council in achieving their target of 100% renewable energy for council operations by 2025, as this is also in line with our vision of a 100% green future,” he said. 

Solar Professionals Managing Director Daniel Kimber said, “This is a significant project for both Solar Professionals and Blacktown City Council, and we were excited to partner with Risen Energy to deliver Council’s 700 kW solar installation”.

He added that Risen panels were a great choice for this initiative and that the economic and environmental benefits of this landmark solar project will benefit Blacktown City Council for years to come.