SOLAR FARM PCS /
PROJECT SUMMARY
The 45MW was constructed and connected to an existing power station which is located near the miners facilities. The project is expected to be the first large scale renewable facility in the region and is forecasted to power 100 per cent of the average daytime energy requirements for the miner. The solar array was built to withstand extreme wind conditions up to 300 kph.
The 35MW BESS, integrated with the power station and provides spinning reserve support using stored energy for instant grid.
A PPA with a miner supports the project, aiming to reduce emissions by up to 50%.
SCOPE
Tier16 was engaged to design and implement the Solar Farm Control System (SFCS) for seamless integration with an existing Power Station located in the Pilbara.
The project scope included:
OT hardware procurement
Control system and network engineering
PLC, DCS software development
SCADA software development
Control system integration
Project delivery documentation
Factory acceptance testing (FAT)
Site acceptance testing (SAT)
Onsite commissioning
Develop operator training documentation
Provide operating training
The SFCS encompassed both primary and secondary systems, including all related equipment and infrastructure. A key feature was the integration of a SCADA system, providing real-time monitoring and centralised control of solar irradiance, power output, and equipment status – essential for efficient solar farm operations.
TECHNOLOGIES USED
Allen Bradley PLC5
Rockwell ControlLogix PLC’s
Rockwell FactoryTalk Historian
Aveva GeoSCADA
Honeywell Experion PKS
CHALLENGES
Multiple sub-systems provided by separate sub-contractors with limited interface definition. Primary contractor relied heavily on Tier16 to drive project integration on their behalf at time of installation and commissioning.
No opportunity to test sub-system integration prior to installation on site. Tier16 needed to quickly retrain in new technologies specific to the project and be agile and pivot the design when required.
RESULTS
The project exemplifies the successful integration of solar, battery, and gas-powered generation to enable the transition of remote mining operations.
TESTIMONIALS /
NAME OF THE COMPANY /
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