Trinasolar, a global leader in smart photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage solutions, is supplying high-performance solar panels for a 6 MW solar farm at an almond plantation in Australia. Developed by AGL Energy, the Kerarbury Solar Farm is designed to produce 14,000 MWh of solar energy annually. The solar farm will achieve a high renewable energy penetration rate of nearly 83%, supported by over 10,000 Trinasolar’s high-efficiency and high-power solar panels. In addition to the solar panels, the project will incorporate a 2.3 MW/4.5 MWh energy storage system to optimize energy use and ensure a steady power supply, even when the sun isn’t shining.
This solar power initiative is part of a broader strategy by ofi (Olam Food Ingredients), the world’s largest almond producer, to transition away from reliance on diesel energy and electricity from the grid. By switching to solar energy, the plantation aims to significantly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the company’s sustainability goals.
Brendan Weinert, Head of Sustainable Business Energy Solutions, AGL, stated, “AGL is committed to providing clean, affordable and reliable energy to customers in Australia . We have built strong partnerships across a range of industries, from almond orchards such as Kerarbury and Caddell to wineries, other agricultural sectors and beyond. This new system will be AGL’s third project specifically designed for almond orchards. AGL will own, operate and maintain the system for 20 years, allowing it to focus on almond orchards while also leveraging sustainable energy solutions.”
Edison Zhou, Group Director , Australia , New Zealand and Pakistan, Trinasolar Asia Pacific, mentioned, “We are proud to partner with industry leaders like AGL and support Australia’s transition to sustainable development in the agribusiness sector. Our advanced solar panels are capable of delivering long-term green energy – helping businesses move towards a more sustainable future and energy independence.”
Furthermore, the solar farm will generate enough electricity to power the surrounding community in Griffith for an entire year. The Kerarbury Solar Power Plant has been successfully completed and commissioned, with the application for a grid permit currently underway. Once fully operational, the facility will help reduce the area’s dependence on the traditional electricity transmission grid and support the region’s decarbonization efforts, marking a significant step toward sustainable energy practices.
