Making Australian canola oil more sustainable with solar power
In a step towards enhancing the sustainability of Australian-made products, Australian canola oil supplier Riverina Oils has partnered with Flow Power to power its operations with solar energy.
Located in the agricultural hub of the Riverina region in Bomen NSW, the solar installation is Flow Power’s largest behind-the-meter project.
The Riverina Oils Energy Project powers its oilseed crushing and refining plant through solar energy during daylight hours.
The plant, which has been operational since 2013, annually produces over 80,000 tonnes of high-quality refined vegetable oil for the food industry and 120,000 tonnes of premium canola protein meal for the poultry, dairy and animal feed industry.
The solar installation is equipped with 2.8 MW of solar PV and a 2.6 MVA inverter, directly supplying power to the Riverina Oils plant through an underground 11 kV cable.
With the Riverina region generating large volumes of biomass waste, such as nut shells, cotton trash and grape marc, Riverina Oils is also exploring bioenergy solutions to further enhance its commitment to a circular, sustainable production system.
Andrew Jackson, CEO, Riverina Oils, commented: “Investing in solar power is not just an environmental choice; it’s a strategic response to rising energy costs in manufacturing.
“Through our partnership with Flow Power, Riverina Oils has successfully reduced operational expenses, stabilised energy prices, and gained a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market. Riverina Oils is extremely proud to be working with Flow Power to contribute to long-term, sustainable business practices. This project is also part of our overall commitment to a more sustainable business, including working with our growers and customers on sustainable supply chain solutions.”
He added, “There are complex challenges ahead for all industrial businesses and we continue to explore partnerships in sustainable systems that lead to a cleaner, safer future for all Australians.”
Byron Serjeantson, COO, Flow Power, said: “The Riverina Oils solar farm is an excellent demonstration of how renewable energy projects are supporting Australian manufacturers to decarbonise while better managing the energy costs and enhancing the value to their products. Flow Power has worked closely with the highly capable Riverina Oils team in delivering this excellent project. Riverina Oils should be commended for their industry leadership and strategic vision in incorporating onsite solar in their transition to renewables.”
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