AGL Energy has set a challenge for the public to design a viewing platform for the Broken Hill solar plant.
Artists, designers, architects and engineers have been challenged to enter the competition and come up with a “design and educational landmark”, with a chance to win $10,000.
AGL head of government and community relations Tony Chappel said the AGL Viewing Platform Art & Design Competition is open to professionals and enthusiasts alike.
“Whether you’re a budding art and design student, a professional architect, engineer or an artist, the project is open to everyone of all ages nationwide,” Mr Chappel said.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate your talents and design flair, we hope to attract a lot of top quality entries.
“And the ultimate prize is that the winning design will be a major feature of the final viewing platform of the 53MW solar plant.”
AGL built the 140 hectare Broken Hill solar plant and now manages it on behalf of new owners – the Powering Australian Renewables Fund.
The solar plant produces enough renewable energy to power 17,000 homes every year.
AGL launched the Viewing Platform Art & Design competition in conjunction with the Broken Hill Art Exchange (BHAE).
BHAE director Susan Thomas encouraged design students and professionals to start putting pen or paintbrush to paper.
“Opportunities like this don’t come around very often. Not only is the total prize pool money of $15,000 substantial, it’s a great chance for students and professionals to become recognised and get their name out there if they aren’t known already,” Ms Thomas said.
All entries will be judged on criteria such as their demonstration of excellence in design, celebration of environmental practices, solar energy and innovation, contribution to Broken Hill’s artistic and cultural heritage, and practicality and feasibility of construction in line with the AGL Viewing Platform Requirements Brief.
Entries close on March 3, 2017.
