Sunshine is being turned into energy and knowledge at The University of Queensland’s Gatton campus, where the state’s largest solar array was switched on today.
The 3.275 megawatt Gatton Solar Research Facility comprises more than 37,000 thin-film photovoltaic panels, mounted on the campus’s 10ha former airstrip.
The advanced technology photovoltaic (PV) modules from First Solar will produce enough clean energy to power more than 450 average Queensland homes and will displace the equivalent of 5600 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.
Industry and Science Minister Ian Macfarlane opened the new research facility this morning at an event attended by federal, state and local officials and national energy industry leaders.
“One of the world’s great challenges is ensuring safe and sufficient access to sustainably sourced energy,” Mr Macfarlane said.
“This facility will not only benefit the University in terms of its own electricity supply, but the knowledge coming from the research will enable the global community to be better equipped in addressing energy security needs.
“This project features state-of-the-art, thin-film panels, configured in tracking and non-tracking geometries,” he said.
“It is a world-first and will position The University of Queensland at the forefront of renewable energy research globally.”
The plant will also include battery storage to improve understanding of the value of short- and medium-term energy storage, its impact on the quality of power supply and any resulting economic benefits.
Press link for more: up.edu.au
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