Plans to build a commercial‑scale silicon ingot and photovoltaic (PV) wafer manufacturing facility in Townsville have attracted Federal Government backing in the form of major project status.
Stellar PV is investing more than $500 million in Project Clean Wafers, with the Lansdown Eco-Industrial Precinct development expected to create more than 300 full‑time jobs when operational.
It follows a $4.7 million injection from the Solar Sunshot program, administered by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).
“Australian-made solar panel components means good jobs and cheaper electricity,” Federal Industry and Innovation Minister Tim Ayres said.
“Major project status means the next stage of Project Clean Wafers, if successful, can get going quickly.
“I’m delighted to see public sector investment from the Solar Sunshot program crowding in the private capital that has brought the next stage of Project Clean Wafers within reach.
“Project Clean Wafers is a perfect example of what Australians can achieve when we work together to solve big national challenges like the build out of our renewable energy grid.”
Stellar PV chief executive officer Louise Hurll said being awarded major project status recognised the scale of the planned development and the opportunity to put Townsville at the centre of Australia’s solar manufacturing story.
“This is a $500 million factory for regional Queensland, making us a critical link in Australia’s solar supply chain, and at the same time adding value through critical minerals processing in Australia,” she said.
“Bringing hundreds of high-tech jobs to Townsville in Australian-made solar technology, we’ll fill a clear gap in the global solar supply chain.
“Building something here that matters to both Australians and globally is something we’re passionate about, we truly can’t wait.”
Senator Ayres said major project status meant the resources of his department would be directed towards making sure that Stellar PV was supported through the approvals process.
“This project, like any other project, has to get the right environmental approvals. But this indicates that it’s a high priority project for the government,” he said. “It fits squarely into our Future Made in Australia agenda.”
Stellar PV uses advanced mono-crystalline silicon ingot pulling, precision squaring and slicing processes to produce the high-quality wafers needed for the production of solar panels.
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