Transperth has completed its largest EV bus depot in Perth, with 56 dual chargers and 112 plugs, raising questions about fitting electrification into whole-of-government net zero transition plans. The retrofit process involves assessing grid connection, upgrading substations, installing chargers, and rebuilding yards, highlighting the need for a network-wide electrical strategy for future electrification demand. The article discusses challenges and opportunities in transitioning to a more sustainable energy system in Western Australia, emphasizing the importance of precinct scale electrification planning. The disciplined approach taken by the WA transport minister in gradually transitioning the fleet to electric vehicles and building depot capacity ahead of demand is praised, but a more comprehensive and forward-looking energy planning approach at a precinct level is needed for long-term sustainability.
Tag: Western Australia
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Huge WA wind project with massive 4,000 MWh battery seeks state planning approval
The proposed Twin Hills wind farm in Western Australia's Mid West region, featuring the country's most powerful turbine and biggest battery, has been referred for public comment by the government's Environmental Protection Authority. The project by Wind Prospect includes 93 wind turbines with a capacity of up to 750 MW and a co-located battery offering at least eight hours of storage at 500 MW and 4,000 MWh. The project aims to boost grid reliability and store energy for high demand periods. The turbines needed for the capacity would be 8 MW each, making them larger than previous projects in the area. The project is located on cleared agricultural land and has already obtained federal approval for up to 110 turbines and 930 MW.
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Anatomy of a renewable finance deal: Developer lands equity for state’s largest solar-battery hybrid
Frontier Energy has secured agreements for equity to cover a third of the cost of the largest solar-battery hybrid project in Western Australia, consisting of a 132 MW solar plant and an 81.5 MW battery storage system. The company has received firm commitments for $110 million in new equity and is working towards securing additional funding. The Waroona project is expected to generate revenue from reserve capacity contracts, energy sales, and other services, with a focus on selling excess output from the battery and solar farm. Additionally, the company is planning to expand the renewable energy facility to potentially reach 1,000 MW and 660 MW of battery capacity, aiming to create a major renewable energy precinct in the South West of WA to contribute to clean energy solutions and reduce carbon emissions in the area.
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Solar recycling: State tips $17.8 million into waste PV and battery collection, processing
Western Australia has allocated $17.8 million towards establishing collection and recycling pathways for end-of-life solar panels and batteries, following a federal pilot program and parliamentary inquiry into solar stewardship. The investment aims to reduce waste, recover valuable materials, and create a local recycling industry while supporting a more sustainable future. The state government believes this initiative will prepare them for the increasing use of solar panels and batteries, ultimately benefiting local jobs, businesses, and the environment.
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Australia’s biggest solar battery hybrid projects lock in finance in landmark deal to power heavy industry
Two of the biggest solar and battery hybrid projects in Australia, Smoky Creek and Guthrie's Gap, have reached financial close with the backing of 14 lenders. These projects will provide 600 MW of solar and 600 MW and 2,400 MWh of battery storage to help power aluminium smelters and refineries in Queensland as part of Rio Tinto's plan to transition to green energy and storage by 2029. The federal government's Capacity Investment Scheme is supporting the projects, which are crucial for reaching renewable energy targets and improving reliability as aging thermal generation retires. Edify is also developing the Hill wind farm in South Australia and the Jinbi solar farm in Western Australia, with strong community support and a focus on creating up to 800 jobs during construction, local procurement, and skills training. The financing package for these projects is a first for Australia and will set a foundation for future renewable energy projects, leaving a positive legacy in the region through a community benefits program.
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State creates $1.4 billion fund to connect more wind and solar ahead of coal power exit
Western Australia's Labor government is establishing a $1.4 billion Clean Energy Fund to facilitate the transition from coal to renewables by the end of the decade. The fund will support network extensions like the Clean Energy Link (CEL) – East, enabling the integration of more wind and solar projects into the grid. This initiative is expected to add 3 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity and generate 800 local jobs during construction. The state government is fast-tracking the replacement of coal with new battery projects, wind farms, and grid expansions, signaling a significant shift towards cleaner energy sources.
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Huge wind component of massive hybrid renewables project joins queue for federal green tick
A 2 gigawatt hybrid wind, solar, and battery storage project in Western Australia's Mid West region, the Tathra wind farm, is undergoing federal environmental assessment after securing state approvals. Developer SynergyRED aims to combine up to 1,000 MW of wind, 500 MW of solar, and 500 MW of battery energy storage to maintain affordable and reliable electricity supply. Efforts are being made to minimize impacts on fauna habitat in the mainly agricultural project area. Additionally, Synergy is expanding its battery capacity with the Collie battery, increasing total big battery capacity to over 800 MW and nearly 3,200 MWh, marking a significant step towards clean energy solutions.
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“Boots on the ground:” Site works begin at Neoen’s first 6-hour big battery
Construction has commenced on Neoen Australia's Muchea Battery project in Western Australia, incorporating 252 Tesla Megapack 2XL units to create a 164 MW, 905 MWh battery connected to the South-West Interconnected System grid. This marks Neoen's third storage asset in WA, generating 70 new jobs during construction. The six-hour battery will enhance grid stability and supply power during evening peaks, showcasing a notable progression in battery technology for climate solutions experts to consider.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/boots-on-the-ground-site-works-begin-at-neoens-first-6-hour-big-battery/