Client: Department of Primary Industries (DPI)

Location: Australian Cotton Research Institute (ACRI), Narrabri, NSW

System Size: 220kW

Technology Used:

• Panels: JA Solar High-Efficiency Modules
• Inverters: SolarEdge Optimised Inverter System
• Mounting: Clenergy Ground-Mount Array

Project Overview

The Australian Cotton Research Institute (ACRI), a key scientific facility under the Department of Primary Industries, required a reliable, high-performance solar solution that aligned with its energy and sustainability goals — without compromising the sensitive agronomic and environmental research conducted onsite.

Grid Electrics Group was selected to deliver a 220kW ground-mount solar system at the Narrabri facility. Given the presence of highly sensitive laboratory and radio-frequency monitoring equipment, the solution required zero electromagnetic interference and high operational reliability.

Key Engineering Considerations

• Low-Interference Design for Research Integrity
  ACRI’s facility uses equipment vulnerable to electrical noise. To prevent disruption, we selected SolarEdge inverter and DC power optimizer technology, which offers distributed power conversion with low EMF output, protecting sensitive instrumentation.

• Premium Performance in Harsh Conditions
  The system was equipped with JA Solar high-efficiency panels to handle the high solar exposure and heat extremes of regional NSW, delivering consistent output throughout the year.

• Clenergy’s Custom Ground-Mount Solution
  ACRI required minimal disturbance to surrounding farmland and operational areas. The mounting solution was custom-designed by Clenergy to suit the terrain, with adequate spacing and tilt for optimal solar harvesting.

Outcomes and Benefits

• Estimated Annual Output: ~390,000 kWh

• Carbon Offset: ~310 tonnes CO₂ annually

• Operational Cost Reduction: Significant savings on daytime energy consumption

• Research Integrity Maintained: Zero interference with electrical or monitoring equipment

• Support for DPI Sustainability Goals: Contribution to Net Zero transition targets