Infigen Suntech's Solar Projects in Australia Hit with More Delays

Researched by Industrial Info Resources (Perth, Australia)--Infigen Suntech Australia Pty Limited's (New South Wales, Australia) proposed solar farms in New South Wales, Australia, are still struggling to obtain the funding needed to progress to their next stages. Infigen Suntech is a joint venture consortium formed between Infigen Energy Limited (New South Wales), a leading specialist renewable energy business, and Suntech Power Australia Pty Limited (New South Wales), a leading, global producer of crystalline silicon solar photovoltaic modules.

The consortium's proposal involves developing up to 195 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic solar projects across New South Wales. The projects deviate significantly from the proposed construction timelines, with reference to what was initially projected by the company.

For the last three years, Infigen has been actively working to secure the required development and planning approvals. Both Nyngan and Manildra received planning approvals in December 2010 and March 2011, respectively, from the New South Wales Department of Planning. However, both of the projects are yet to receive funding approvals to continue with further development activities.

Nyngan will be built on 120 hectares at East Nyngan Road and Boundary Street East, Nyngan, New South Wales. The 50-MW Manildra Project will occupy an area of approximately 60 hectares at "Yarran" and Ainsdale, Manildra. Infigen will utilize Suntech's photovoltaic technology to build the solar farms.

Similar to the size of Manildra, Infigen proposed another 50-60 MW solar farm in Bungendore, called the Capital Solar Farm. Infigen received the planning approvals for the project in 2010. However, Infigen reduced the size of the proposed plant to 40 MW in November 2012, in an attempt to obtain funding from the government. The project has yet to receive full funding from the authorities. Site work and construction are expected to commence by end of the year.

According to the company spokesperson, no construction activities will happen on Nyngan and Manildra in the next 18 to 20 months.

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