DLA Piper has advised the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) on three projects that have reached financial close under ARENA's multi-million dollar large-scale solar photovoltaics (PV) competitive funding round.

ARENA has committed AU$92 million in funding for 12 new large-scale solar PV plants across Australia, consisting of 480 MW in total.

The 12 projects – six in Queensland, five in New South Wales and one in Western Australia – are unlocking almost AU$1 billion of commercial investment and boosting regional economies.

DLA Piper advised ARENA on the bid process and funding agreements for Parkes Solar Farm, Griffith Solar Farm and Dubbo Solar Farm – all in regional New South Wales.

The DLA Piper team was led by Finance and Projects partner Kate Papailiou with partner David Harley, senior associate Marnie Carroll and solicitor Billie Stevens, with assistance from senior foreign legal associate Gemma Lawrence. 

Kate Papailiou said: "We are delighted to advise ARENA on the funding arrangements for this large-scale solar round and support Neoen with expanding its renewable portfolio in Australia."

The three projects are owned and developed by renewable energy developer Neoen Australia, with debt financing provided by the Clean Energy Finance Corporation. The total project cost is approximately AU$230 million.

DLA Piper is also advising ARENA on the Whitsunday Solar Farm in Collinsville, Queensland and providing portfolio advice and support on all projects in the round.