Specialist
C-Level Executive at Simec Energy Australia
Agenda
- Market structure and capacity growth
- Policy landscape and project economics
- Competitive landscape
- 2019 sector outlook
Questions
1.
Could we start by outlining Australia’s renewable energy sector and how solar energy fits in?
2.
You mentioned that Australia’s power market operator will assign LGC [large-scale generation certificate] discounts or premiums based upon whether there is a power surplus or deficit. Are there any Australian regions with clear or structural power surpluses or deficits?
3.
Examining the utility-scale solar projects ongoing across Australia, where is capacity being added?
4.
Is most of the utility-scale solar capacity being added in Australia going to be sold into the grid, or is some of this captive to the commercial or industrial companies, etc?
5.
Could you estimate historic volumes of PPAs [power purchase agreements] in the Australian solar market, and how quickly do you think that will taper off?
6.
Australia’s rooftop installed base is a lot larger than the utility-scale base, if my memory is correct. How should we assess the dynamics and the trade-offs between each?
7.
Examining the economics of utility-scale solar, you mentioned challenges to the projections being made in the market. What are the assumptions being made on LGC pricing, on IRRs, etc?
8.
You mentioned that capacity factors for solar in Australia max out around 28-31%. Are projects trending around that level, or are they lower?
9.
What accounts for the difference between solar plants running at 25% capacity factor vs 28%?
10.
On the bank assumptions, have Australian solar projects generally been good at reaching their targets?
11.
You mentioned OEM [original equipment manufacturer] lead-times as a driver of Australian solar project construction delays. How long does it take to procure the equipment and necessary components?
12.
What is the per-MW cost to set up a utility-scale solar project in Australia?
13.
Are there any issues with procuring PV [photovoltaic] modules in Australia? I know there are in India, with prices creeping up.
14.
You mentioned banks in Australia are willing to finance renewable developments. What do borrowing costs look like for some of these utility-scale projects?
15.
Who are the key project developers or players in the Australian solar sector? How would you characterise their opportunities, challenges and risks over the next couple of years?
16.
Is there any aspect of Australia’s solar sector you feel we have not done justice to today, or that it is particularly important for analysts to understand?
