Start of construction of "Zavodskaya" solar power plant/PRESS RELEASE

07.09.2016

September 7, 2016 – Solar Systems launches construction of a 15 MW solar park on the territory of Volodarsky District, Astrakhan Region. "Zavodskaya" is the first one of 10 SPP, construction of which is planned in five regions of Russia. Already in the 3rd quarter of 2017, Zavodskaya SPP will provide electricity to 20 thousand residents of Astrakhan Region and will become a new local "clean energy" generator.

Zavodskaya SPP marked a significant step in expanding the portfolio of solar power assets of the region. SPP in Volodarsky District of Astrakhan Region is an example of innovative approach to power generation and opportunity for people to receive energy without damage to the environment. "We plan to complete construction of the SPP within a year. We count on support of local authorities and hope to work constructively with related infrastructure organizations", said Mikhail Molchanov, CEO of Solar Systems.

"Implementation of solar generation construction projects is of particular importance for the region, - said Governor Alexander Zhilkin. – Our region has a shortage of power. "Volodarovka" is the main supply substation in Volodarsky District. It already has restrictions on connection of new consumers. Therefore, construction of a new SPP will remove these restrictions and provide long-term economic development of Volodarsky District. "

Zavodskaya SPP will be located on a land plot with an area of 26 hectares. 58 thousand photovoltaic modules (each with capacity of about 260 watts) will be responsible for collection of solar energy. All panels will be directed to the sun at an angle of about 30 degrees, as this is the best angle to collect solar radiation in Astrakhan Region. Rows of modules will be mounted so that panels will not shade each other. The distance between rows will be of around 8 meters. The SPP will reach peak power output at the time of highest solar activity, when the sun is at its zenith. Zavodskaya SPP will be fully automated. Warranty period of each module is around 15 years, lifetime of the SPP is 25 years. Zavodskaya SPP will produce clean electricity with no emission of hazardous substances into the atmosphere. Carbon emission reduction with virtually no waste or other negative impacts on the environment will be more than 3784 tons. Total volume of investments in construction of Zavodskaya SPP will be about 3 billion rubles, up to 50 people will be provided with jobs for the period of construction. After the SPP starts operating at full capacity, regional budget will annually receive more than 67 million rubles of tax payments.

Solar Systems, LLC was established in March 2014 for the purpose of construction and operation of solar power plants on the territory of Russia. The company is currently implementing projects in Samara and Astrakhan Regions. Solar power plants in Volgograd Region, Stavropol Krai and the Republic of Kalmykia are planned to be constructed in the next two years. Due to commissioning of 10 solar parks, total installed capacity of power systems of these regions will increase by 240 MW. Cumulative investments will surpass 32 billion rubles.