Three new purpose-built state of the art weather stations are now live collecting and storing real-time meteorological data which includes solar, wind, temperature, humidity and rain.
The high-resolution and high-quality data will support renewable energy research and development, as well as a resource for developers to scope new projects and encourage renewable energy investments into the Territory. This includes measuring solar irradiance which is important information for making investment decisions for solar energy projects.
Attracting more renewable energy investments is an important step forward in achieving the Territory Labor Government’s target of 50% renewable energy by 2030.
There will be four weather stations in total and they represent the different climatic zones of the Territory. The four weather stations can be found at:
- Desert Knowledge Australia Solar Centre, Alice Springs (Live)
- Katherine Research Station, Katherine (Live)
- Haileybury Rendall School, Darwin (Live)
- Juno Learning Centre, Tennant Creek (Coming Online Soon)
The data collected from the new weather stations are stored in an online database, is free and publicly available at: http://dkasolarcentre.com.au/locations/nt-solar-resource
The four weather stations form part of the Northern Territory Solar Resource Project (NTSR). The Territory Government and the Intyalheme Centre for Future energy funded the Centre for Appropriate Technology (CfAT) to develop this project.
Quotes from Minister for Renewables, Energy & Essential Services, Dale Wakefield
“The Territory Labor Government’s number one priority is creating local jobs. Delivering 50% renewables by 2030 will deliver local jobs, and cheaper, cleaner power.
“We have invested in four state of the art weather stations. The data from the weather stations which includes measuring solar irradiance - is important information for solar energy investors. This data is being captured through cutting edge technology and will also provide a foundation for renewable energy research and development.
“To achieve our target, we are supporting the $40 million private sector investment in the 25MW Katherine Solar Farm project, and the $59 million joint investment with ARENA for the Solar SETuP program providing 10MW of solar across 25 remote communities.”
Quotes from CEO of Centre for Appropriate Technology (CfAT), Dr. Steve Rogers
“CfAT Ltd as a local Aboriginal company is proud to have been involved in the weather station project, an important investment in achieving the NT’s 50% by 2030 renewable energy target. Our role in constructing and installing the Central Australia weather station sites has provided employment and learning opportunities for our Facilities Management team and Aboriginal staff.”
Media Contact:
Paige Nguyen 0428 727 244
Paige.nguyen@nt.gov.au