NSW minister says solar industry has strong outlook

The solar industry has a bright future in NSW, according to Rob Stokes, the conservative state government’s Parliamentary Secretary for Renewable Energy and Energy Innovation.

Stokes made the comments after meeting with representative of the solar industry in Sydney on Friday.

He noted the international investment drawn to NSW through the construction of the large scale solar PV projects at Nyngan and Borken Hill, and the surge in interest from households.

“Solar energy has firmly secured its place in our State’s growing energy mix,” Stokes said in a prepared statement.

“Solar technology is providing households with greater autonomy in managing their energy needs and is helping reduce our State’s reliance on traditional energy sources.

“Solar connections throughout NSW remain strong despite the closure of the Solar Bonus Scheme and widespread support for the technology points to continuing growth ahead.

Stokes said NSW is at the forefront of solar energy research and development and is keen to attract further investment in this sector.

His remarks came as the ACT Legislative Assembly endorsed the territory government’s plans for a 90 per cent renewable energy target, and a plan to “auction” up to 550MW of renewable energy capacity in coming years.

This will include 200MW of wind projects to be built in NSW districts surrounding the ACT, as well as a 50MW solar park featuring new technologies and battery storage.