AGL Develops Major Renewable Microgrid for Almond Farm in Australia
AGL Energy, one of Australia’s leading utility providers, is set to construct a solar and battery-operated microgrid aimed at powering a significant portion of Koompartu Farms, one of the country’s largest almond orchards located in South Australia’s Riverland region.
This week, the company announced plans for the microgrid, which will feature a 9.2 megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic system with single-axis tracking, comprising over 15,600 solar panels. In addition to this, there will be a 10.2 megawatt-hour (MWh) battery made up of four units each with 2.55 MWh capacity, supplemented by 16 diesel backup generators and 19 kilometres of underground high-voltage power lines.
A Groundbreaking Initiative
AGL asserts that this initiative, undertaken in collaboration with RRG Capital Management, will stand out as one of the largest privately funded microgrids not linked to mining activities across Australia.
Upon its completion, the microgrid is anticipated to deliver enough electricity to meet the needs of approximately 3,000 homes, fulfilling about 85 per cent of Koompartu Farms’ current energy demands.
Long-Term Commitment
AGL will not only oversee the construction of the microgrid but also enter into a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) to own, operate, and maintain the project, providing energy directly to Koompartu Farms.
Brendan Weinart, AGL’s general manager for sustainable business energy solutions, expressed pride in the venture, stating, “RRG is making a significant investment in more sustainable infrastructure, and we’re pleased to be delivering an energy solution that supports Koompartu’s operations both now and in the future.”
He added that this pioneering project is intended to enhance local grid capacity and ensure reliability, which is crucial for the functioning of key irrigation systems.
Reduction in Diesel Dependency
With expectations that the use of diesel generators will plummet by 88 per cent, the initiative illustrates how customised microgrid solutions can assist businesses in lowering emissions and enhancing resilience.
Although there was some resistance from irrigators and environmental groups regarding the development of the almond orchard in 2023, Koompartu Farm has now established itself as one of the largest almond farms in Australia. The farm is currently on the market under RRG’s management, with the assistance of Colliers.
