Rio Tinto has signed two new solar and battery hybrid services agreements with Edify Energy to power its Gladstone aluminium operations with renewable energy.
Under the agreements, Rio Tinto will purchase 90 per cent of the electricity and battery storage capacity generated by the Smoky Creek and Guthrie’s Gap Solar Power Stations over the next 20 years.
Scheduled for construction in late 2025 and completion by 2028, the two adjacent central Queensland solar power stations will have a combined capacity of 600 megawatts-alternating current of solar power and 600MW/2400MWh of battery storage.
Edify Energy will build, own, and operate the facilities.
Rio Tinto’s Chief Executive, Australia, Kellie Parker, highlighted the project’s role in reducing emissions and enhancing the competitiveness of the Boyne aluminium smelter.
“These agreements are integral to repowering our Gladstone aluminium operations with affordable, reliable and lower carbon energy for decades to come,” Parker said.
“For the first time, we have integrated crucial battery storage in our efforts to make the Boyne aluminium smelter globally cost-competitive, as traditional energy sources become more expensive.
“We continue to investigate further renewable energy investments to repower our Gladstone aluminium operations.”
Edify Energy Chief Executive, John Cole, acknowledged the importance of this new services agreement in providing clean, reliable and cost-effective electricity to energy consumers.
“The Smoky Creek & Guthrie’s Gap Solar Power Stations deliver the latest in solar, battery and inverter technology to support Australia’s power needs,” Cole said.
“This collaboration is an important commitment to supporting the sustainable future of Australia’s industrial sector. We are proud to advance Rio Tinto’s goals to repower its Gladstone operations and to play a role in the transition to a low-carbon economy.”
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