Aggreko to install two solar farms providing renewable energy to Gove communities

Arnhem Land, Australia – Energy solutions company Aggreko, world leader in the supply of modular power, will install two 5.25MW solar farms through its agreement with Rio Tinto enabling renewable energy to be made available to communities on the Gove peninsula, including the township of Nhulunbuy in the Northern Territory.

Aggreko and Rio Tinto Gove will extend an existing power supply arrangement for a further 10 years, with Aggreko to deliver and maintain two new 5.25MW solar farms. It is anticipated that once the two solar farms are operational, they will substantially reduce the region’s reliance on diesel generated power and introduce more sustainable options. The solar farms are expected to reduce the diesel consumption at the power station by about 20%.

The solar farms will be built on Rio Tinto leases following agreement with the Gumatj and Rirratjingu Traditional Owner Groups on the location of the facilities, which will help underpin a low-carbon future for the Gove community following the cessation of mining operations towards the end of the decade.

Rio Tinto Gove General Manager Operations Steve Dunstone said the Gove solar project was part of their commitment to leave a positive legacy for Gove communities.

“We are committed to our role in helping to plan for the region’s future, which includes providing options for reliable, affordable and environmentally sustainable infrastructure like solar.

“We are working in partnership with the Northern Territory Government and Traditional Owners to ensure a smooth transition of leased land and town assets and infrastructure as Rio Tinto prepares to cease mining later this decade.”

George Whyte, Managing Director of Aggreko Asia Pacific, said his team has delivered many similar applications and their focus now is working safely and respectfully with the local custodians of the land.

“Aggreko is pleased that the long-standing partnership between Aggreko and Rio Tinto Gove will continue for a further 10 years. The introduction of the two solar farms will contribute to the decarbonisation of the region” said Mr Whyte.

Aggreko’s ESG strategy is underpinned by two goals:

• Net zero emissions from facilities and operations by 2035
• 30% reduction in the emissions intensity of energy solutions by 2030

These environmental commitments sit alongside the company’s social and governance commitments: investing in its own skills and communities and being an ethical and transparent business.