Four Western Australian businesses have been awarded contracts totalling $17 million to carry out Australia’s largest single rollout of stand-alone power systems (SPS) across WA’s network.
The successful WA contractors – Hybrid Systems, BayWa r.e. Solar Systems, Balance Utility Solutions and AGL Energy Services – who are working with Bunbury subcontractor Positive Off-Grid Solutions, will supply and deploy 98 SPS across regional Victoria to replace around 330km of overhead powerlines, which would have needed to be replaced at a significant cost.
SPS – which typically include solar panels, a battery and, where required, a back-up generator – are a more efficient option than traditional poles and wires in supplying electricity to regional households and businesses. They also improve land amenity for farmers and reduce bushfire risk.
Hybrid Systems Australia will supply half of the units (49), comprising 250kW of solar panels, 220kW of solar inverters and nearly 600kWh of lithium battery energy storage.
According to the company, the systems will also be provided with a high efficiency diesel generator to enable back up power to the solar and battery systems, and will generate over 325,000 kWh of power, enough to power over 60 typical residential Customers in the South-West Interconnected System (SWIS).
Energy Minister Bill Johnston said the project will revolutionise power supply in regional Western Australia.
“Through the McGowan Government’s Energy Transformation Strategy, we’re revolutionising the way we deliver and provide energy to Western Australian homes,” the Minister said.
“Stand-alone power systems are an excellent alternative for regional customers and while they’re part of Western Power’s service area, they operate independently to the main grid.
“The increased rollout of SPS is creating new jobs and training opportunities for Western Australians
“These new contracts will create jobs for Western Australians and support small businesses during the manufacture, installation and commissioning phases.”
Image credit: http://www.hybridsystems.com.au
