Suntech Power Holdings has announced that Suntech solar panels containing new high efficiency Pluto cells will help power Sydney Theatre Company (STC) as one of several initiatives in STC's Greening the Wharf project.
The 500kW Pluto solar system, which should be completed in 2010, is slated to be one of the largest capacity rooftop solar project in Australia and along with energy saving measures will reduce Sydney Theatre Company's power drawn from the grid by up to 70%.
The family foundation of Dr. Zhengrong and Vivienne Shi has donated $2 million to help fund the "Greening the Wharf" project and the Australian Government will provide $1.2 million of funding.
Dr. Zhengrong Shi, Suntech's Chairman and CEO, said, "It is a pleasure to support one of the cultural centerpieces of Sydney to reduce its carbon footprint through these sustainability initiatives. I hope that this project increases the awareness of climate change and demonstrates the huge role that solar can play in mitigating carbon emissions in Australia today."
The three key initiatives that form the heart of "Greening the Wharf" are: the installation of the state-of-the-art PV array; the introduction of extensive energy efficiency measures; and the introduction of an innovative rainwater harvesting, storage and reticulation system which will supply 100% of the STC's non-potable water requirements.
Over the next 25 years, it is estimated that the Greening the Wharf project will deliver 10,350 MWh of power generated via the PV array, 5,000MWh in energy savings and water savings of 37.5 million litres.
Suntech collaborates with the University of NSW in Australiain connection with advanced solar technologies.
Dr. Shi said, "The high efficiency Pluto technology is a fantastic example of successful integration of world-class technology with commercial manufacturing techniques. There is enormous potential for solar to sustainably power our energy needs and we will continue collaborating with the University of NSWin connection with new generations of technology that facilitate more widespread adoption of solar."
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