Converting a diesel peaking station to a Battery Energy Storage System in Northam.

The Goal

The key objective is to assist our client in their programme of converting a number of diesel-powered peaking stations to battery energy storage systems (BESS).

The project proposes works for the conversion of a peaking station (comprising diesel generator sets) to a battery energy storage system (BESS). The BESS will absorb energy from the grid and discharge that energy at a later time to provide electricity as needed. The BESS will provide a complementary and supporting role to provide capacity and stability to the South West Interconnected System (SWIS) which will facilitate the build out of additional renewable generation.

Our Role

TBB were engaged as lead planning consultants for the proposed infrastructure and development characteristics for the BESS as outlined below:

Battery Enclosures (x12);
Inverter Stations (x4); and
Main Transformer (x1)

The Outcome

The application was presented to the Shire of Northam Council at their OCM on the 20th March 2024 and approved unanimously.

3 Interesting Facts about the Project:

The BESS will absorb excess solar energy during the day and export this energy during the evening #renewable
During peak load times it will take a diesel generator approximately 1 minute to start providing power to the grid. A BESS can instantly start contributing power to the grid when required. #reliable
The cost of operating a BESS compared to diesel generators is substantially lower. #efficient