Dual-power capacity boost

THE opening of two innovative power stations in Kwinana and Marble Bar last week will boost Western Australia’s renewable energy capacity.

Horizon Power’s Pippunyah Solar Diesel Power Station, located in the Pilbara, combines renewable and traditional sources of generation.

The power station combines a solar farm with diesel technology, the first of its kind in the world.

Energy Minister Peter Collier said in a statement that the plant began powering the town of Marble Bar in May, but the testing period was only completed at the end of July.

“When the demand for energy and temperatures are high around the middle of summer, the solar panels will provide up to 89 per cent of the load,” Mr Collier said.

The new power station, which comprises of 1,350 SunPower designed solar panels, will generate 1,048 megawatts of solar energy each year, saving about 412,000 litres of diesel.

“This project goes to the heart of what Horizon Power aims to achieve in remote and regional areas of WA – innovative solutions, long-term partnerships and real engagement with our customers,” Horizon Power managing director Rod Hayes said.

Perth Energy’s 120-megawatt duel-fuel Swift Power Station is touted to increase the reliability of power supply to Perth through its ability to switch fuels from gas to diesel. It can reach full capacity in five minutes.

The $130 million plant, powered by 30 open-cycle gas turbines, will be used by Perth Energy to complement the renewable power it purchases from major generators such as Verve Energy.

“[The power station] heralds the arrival of an innovative approach to new capacity supply in the South West Interconnected System; a project that can achieve multiple goals covering supply security, environment and lower cost choice for consumers,” Perth Energy managing director Ky Cao said at the opening.