Heron Island Stand Alone Power System (SAPS)

Client

University of Queensland Heron Island Research Station

Location

Heron Island, Queensland, Australia

Timeframe

2018 - 2020

Scope

QGE provided engineering and design support to the University of Queensland’s stand-alone (off grid) power system at the Heron Island Research Station. QGE performed the initial needs analysis, technical specifications and contractor technical management through to project delivery and commissioning. The project supports the University’s renewable energy targets and provides a renewable energy fraction in excess of 80%. The project is designed to provide independence on the neighboring resort’s diesel generators, thus providing the university with energy security and reduced carbon footprint.

Background

The University of Queensland operate a research station on Heron Island on the Great Barrier Reef in QLD Australia. The site was previously supplied power via the resort with which they share the island. QGE provided engineering and technical assistance to UQ for the project scoping for a standalone power station utilising Solar PV coupled to Vanadium Flow Batteries (VFB) supplied by UET. Two small diesel generators were also supplied to provide energy independence from the resort and additional redundancy. VFB batteries were selected by UQ as they provide for a highly recyclable, long life battery with minimal toxic components, long cycle life and are resistant to high temperatures.

Outcomes

Throughout the project, QGE have provided technical support and Owner’s engineering services to ensure that the resulting system meets, if not exceeds UQ’s requirements.

The site is located within the Great barrier Reef Marine park, 80km North East of Gladstone. This presented several unique project challenges, including:

Highly corrosive marine environment.
All equipment must travel via open top barge then FEL transport up the beach, requiring suitable packaging for transport and weight limits on individual items.
The site is located within a cyclone region, which presented challenges for both design ratings, but also construction and staging during the cyclone period.
An existing 55kW solar system needed to be removed and returned to the mainland for recycling.

QGE were able to bring our extensive experience with hybrid power and control systems to support the implementation of several new technologies to achieve UQ’s renewable goals, whilst managing the contractor within budgetary constraints.

Why Choose Us

WE ARE THE EXPERTS IN THE FIELD

QGE are recognised leaders in hazardous areas and in grid connected solar PV, which is only possible because of our rock-solid foundation in electrical and controls engineering. We have the knowledge and experience to provide a cost-effective solution, whatever the problem.

WE ARE CONSTANTLY INNOVATING

Our cloud software, controls and telemetry solutions, and grid export control panels are all products of our ongoing investments in new technology and engineering processes, and we continue to push the boundaries with involvement in blockchain and peer-to-peer energy trading.

WE ARE EASY TO WORK WITH

At QGE we genuinely enjoy what we do, which means we’re always willing to go the extra mile for our customers to deliver the right solution. We have great client relationships because people like working with us.

Testimonials

Over several years, QGE have provided control systems design and on site support for upgrades and expansion projects. We’ve been very satisfied with the quality of their solutions and the high level of support they have provided our remote mine site.

Jude Barnes

Sepon Mine Site - MMG

QGE have worked with us for several years on hazardous area issues and have classified a number of our facilities, including new-technology processes, where we’ve been very satisfied with the pragmatic approach they’ve taken and the outcomes for our business.

Ferdi van Staden

Coogee Chemicals

The QGE team understood the project’s constraints and requirements, and were able to deliver a commercial solution that has allowed Agrimin to achieve a higher renewables penetration and lower energy cost than it had expected.

Rhys Bradley – Chief Commercial Officer

Agrimin