Solar Powering Jabiru in Milestone Switch Over

8 February 2022

The Territory town of Jabiru has been powered by 100 per cent solar for the first time.

The milestone follows the completion of construction and as part of the final commissioning of the new Jabiru Hybrid Renewable Power Station this week.

The new hybrid power station will secure reliable and affordable electricity for Jabiru residents and businesses.

It will also provide Jabiru with at least 50 per cent renewable energy over the long-term using a hybrid model of solar generation, battery and diesel power, and its operation will see the equivalent of 1600 cars being removed off the road each year.

This model meets the Territory Labor Government’s target of 50 per cent renewable energy by 2030.

The project is part of the Territory Labor Government’s $135.5 million dollar commitment to the Future of Jabiru and Kakadu package, and is the first project to be completed as part of the transition to a tourism and services hub.

The renewable hybrid project was constructed and is being operated by Energy Developments Pty Ltd (EDL), a global leader in remote renewables.

Construction of the Jabiru Hybrid Renewable Power Station created around 300 jobs for local Territorians, including the Djurrubu Rangers who were employed to assist with land clearing, and cultural and environmental management.

Territorians have also been employed as part of the operational phase.

Quotes from Chief Minister Michael Gunner:

“Jabiru is an iconic Territory town – the gateway to Kakadu National Park and the West Arnhem Region. 

“We are investing millions into Jabiru to transform it into the tourism and services hub we know it is well positioned to be.

“This new Power Station has helped create more jobs for locals, and it is paving the way for better and more reliable services for Territorians and businesses in Jabiru.

Quotes from Minister for Renewables and Energy Eva Lawler: 

“Today’s announcement follows the successful transition of Jabiru residents’ power over to the new Power Station.

“Territorians deserve access to the very best services, no matter where they live, and we welcome this important step in beginning to transfer power to the new station. We are investing millions into Jabiru to transform it into the tourism and services hub we know it will one day be, and we need the infrastructure to get it there.

“The Territory Labor Government has set a 50 per cent renewable energy target by 2030, and we are on track to meeting this.”

Quotes from EDL Chief Executive Officer James Harman:

“It has been a privilege to work with the Northern Territory Government and key local stakeholders to deliver this transformative project for Jabiru’s future.

“The Jabiru Hybrid Renewable Power Station is now providing the town with stable, reliable energy that is at least 50% renewable over the long term, enabling the community to realise their vision of being an ecologically sustainable tourism and cultural hub for the region.”