Aust partnership leads to solar-powered canola

Riverina Oils, a NSW canola oil producer, has partnered with Australian renewable energy retailer Flow Power to power its operations with solar energy.

Flow Power described the new solar installation as its largest behind-the-meter project, adding that it set a new standard for renewable energy use in the manufacturing of Australian products.

Located in the agricultural hub of the Riverina region in Bomen, NSW, the plant — which has been operational since 2013 — annually produces over 80,000 tonnes of high-quality refined vegetable oil for the food industry, plus 120,000 tonnes of premium canola protein meal for the poultry, dairy and animal feed industry.

The Riverina Oils Energy Project powers the oilseed crushing and refining plant through solar energy during daylight hours.

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.

Given the Riverina region generates large volumes of biomass waste, such as nut shells, cotton trash and grape marc, Riverina Oils is also exploring bioenergy solutions to further demonstrate its commitment to a circular, sustainable production system.

“Investing in solar power is not just an environmental choice; it’s a strategic response to rising energy costs in manufacturing,” said Andrew Jackson, Riverina Oils CEO.

“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,” Jackson said.

Byron Serjeantson, Flow Power COO, added that the Riverina Oils solar farm was an excellent demonstration of how renewable energy projects are supporting Australian manufacturers to decarbonise while better managing energy costs and enhancing the value of their products.

“Flow Power has worked closely with the highly capable Riverina Oils team in delivering this excellent project,” Serjeantson said. “Riverina Oils should be commended for their industry leadership and strategic vision in incorporating onsite solar in their transition to renewables.”

To learn more about the Riverina Oils project, visit flowpower.com.au/riverina-oils-bio-energy-solar-farm/.

Images courtesy of Flow Power.