The Australian subsidiary of German renewable energy specialist juwi AG, signed an agreement with Transalta to design, supply, build and integrate a solar battery hybrid power plant for BHP’s Nickel West mine. The hybrid power plant is expected to be operational in November next year, after which juwi will undertake the plant operation and maintenance.
Dave Manning, Director Global Hybrid at juwi said “This groundbreaking hybrid project with Transalta for BHP is the next important milestone for renewable energy. Not only does the project feature spatially distributed solar power generation, cloud forecasting and the latest juwi Hybrid IQ technology, but also demonstrates that our solutions are now part of Tier 1 mining operations. Supplying hybrid renewable power unlocks several benefits for West Australian mines. The resources industry shows leadership in technology and decarbonisation, while reducing cash operating costs and fuel price risks.”
Maximising generation with bifacial PV modules
The solar system designed by juwi maximises generation with bifacial solar PV modules and a single axis tracking system, taking advantage of the high irradiance in WA. Juwi Hybrid IQ micro-grid technology will enable the integration of the solar and battery system into the existing off-grid network and support the operation of the existing power station.
See also: Michael Class from Juwi: Key pillar of a purely renewable supply
Cameron Garnsworthy, Managing Director, juwi Australia comments: “Our proven track record with hybrid designs and project delivery in locations with some of the world’s best solar resources enable our clients to drive down cash operating costs with maximized throughput and reliability. The collaboration with TransAlta and its forward-looking experts has been crucial for the closure of the project. We are glad also to work with TransAlta to deliver this ground breaking project. I would like to thank the entire team for their contribution.”
Another six utility scale hybrid projects currently under construction
juwi has already achieved remarkable success for mining clients globally with the world’s first utility scale solar battery hybrid project at the DeGrussa copper mine. This was followed by Agnew Gold in 2019 and another six utility scale hybrid projects currently under construction: Esperance, Sukari, Pan African Resources, Jacinth Ambrosia, Jabiru and Gruyere. With TransAlta at BHP’s Nickel West Site, juwi will provide a new benchmark of power systems for mines in Australia and internationally. (mfo)
