The Andrews Labor Government is backing a major new solar power plant that will support local jobs and the development of Victoria’s renewable energy technology exports.
Minister Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio announced today that the Labor Government will put $1 million towards solar company RayGen’s new 0.5MW commercial power plant in Newbridge.
The project will create 22 jobs during the design, construction and commissioning phase, and a further three ongoing jobs once the plant is operational.
It will support the expansion of RayGen’s export business and projected long-term growth, and has the potential to create up to 70 local jobs in product and software engineering, manufacturing, and sales.
RayGen’s PV Ultra is one of the highest efficiency solar technologies commercially available, utilising technology typically used in space applications.
The PV Ultra Module is over 1000 times more powerful and twice as efficient as conventional photovoltaic panels.
Labor Government funding for the project is being provided through the New Energy Jobs Fund, which offers grants of up to $1 million for new energy technology projects that support the uptake of renewable energy, reduce emissions, and assist community groups to develop their own projects.
Over 50 applications were received in round two of the New Energy Jobs Fund, with 21 successful projects receiving close to $7 million in grants.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“This project will create local jobs, reduce emissions and support the expansion of solar power in Victoria.”
“This is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen the exports for our growing renewables sector and deliver a positive environmental impact.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020