In a major step towards reaching the 50 percent renewables target, the Northern Territory government has approved the 25 megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic electricity plant to be developed near Katherine and jointly developed by Epuron and Island Green Power.

This project supports the government's recently announced electricity market reforms to deliver lower cost and reliable power, and meet the government’s target of its 50 percent renewables by 2030.

The Northern Territory government has also consented to government owned electricity retailer Jacana Energy entering into a long term power purchase agreement (PPA) for the project.

The power purchase agreement between Jacana Energy and Katherine Solar Pty Ltd will enable the construction of the $40 million project, create over 100 jobs during construction and be the largest renewable energy generator in the Northern Territory.

Quotes from the Chief Minister:

“Creating local jobs is my number one priority.”

“Our election commitment of 50% renewables by 2030 is already paying dividends by creating local jobs in the growing renewable energy sector.

“We have kept our promise to stabilise power prices after massive hikes under the CLP.

“The fact we have also kept public assets in public ownership means we are perfectly place to transition to more renewable energy while maintaining system reliability.

Quotes from the Minister for Renewables and Essential Services:

“This agreement between Katherine Solar and Jacana will increase renewable energy use in the Territory by between 3 and 4%.

“It’s a huge step towards our renewable energy target and will put downward pressure on electricity prices.

“There are lessons learned from the National Energy Market which we have incorporated into the design of this policy.

“This is a common-sense and best practice approach tailored for the Territory’s unique circumstances.”

Quotes from Martin Poole, Epuron Executive Director:

“Epuron is pleased to be entering into an agreement to sell solar electricity to Jacana. We look forward to the Katherine solar project moving into construction in the coming months."

“The NT has great potential for solar energy, and it is exciting to see the Territory Government’s initiatives to enable investors to compete to generate the lowest cost solar power for the grid."

“Epuron owns and operates solar power stations in the NT at Alice Springs, Yulara, Kalkarindji, Ti Tree and Lake Nash / Alpurrurulam and we are pleased to be here at the announcement of our first project in the Darwin - Katherine electricity system.”