Katherine Solar Farm Australia
The Katherine Effect
The amount of renewable energy (in MWhrs) annually
NORTHERN TERRITORY’S FIRST SOLAR & STORAGE PROJECT
Katherine Solar Farm is the first and largest solar and storage project in the Northern Territory, Australia, located approximately 5km north west from Katherine. The solar farm is connected via the 22kV distribution network to the Katherine 132/22kV Zone Substation via a double circuit overhead line. 99,180 340W photovoltaic (PV) modules are installed, creating a DC capacity of 33.7MWp. The solar farm’s export limit to the Katherine network is 25MW AC.
Project Summary
Katherine Solar Farm utilises highly accurate forecasting to predict the plant’s variation in output due to changes in irradiance in order to control the PV inverter export and engage/disengage the BESS to provide clean
electricity while maintaining system security. The solar farm has a variety of weather sensors installed throughout the park to accurately capture weather conditions to ensure the plant’s export is maximised without impacting
grid stability.
Technical Solution
DC Capacity: 33.7MWp
AC Capacity: 25MW
Land Area: 73 Ha
No. Panels: 99,180
Panel Type: 340W Monofacial
No. of Inverters: 9
Tracker System: Single-Axis Tracking (SAT)
BESS AC Power: 5.68MW
BESS Capacity: 3.44MWh
Battery Type: Lithium Ion
Community & Culture
BSR actively commits to engaging with each local community it works within. Landowners, neighbours, community groups, environmental groups and local businesses are consulted with to ensure the Katherine Solar Farm is a valued project that operates responsibly and sustainably.
The Katherine Solar Farm has created local job opportunities and developed industry skills that support small business and the regional economy. BSR supports local businesses and suppliers wherever possible.
The cultural heritage of the Katherine Region is of utmost importance and has continued to be a respected priority in minimising environmental impacts from construction through to operations. This clean energy development with no air emissions, no waste, minimal carbon footprint and water use is on the doorstep to the spectacular Nitmiluk National Park.