Woolooga Solar Farm

Client

BP Lightsource

Location

Woolooga, QLD

Timeframe

2020 - 2022

Scope

QGE Provided the HV Substation RTU control system for the 200 MW Woolooga Solar Farm. QGE worked closely with Powerlink and BP Lightsource through the development and testing of the RTU, achieving the first known use of a Siemens A8000 RTU within the PowerLink network.

QGE’s scope for the Woolooga MV Solar Farm Substation was to design, develop and commission the substation control and communication system to link between the solar farm and Powerlink/AEMO. This included creating the local substation SCADA system, and the AVR control system for the OLTC for the 132/33 kV 200 MW transformer.

Background

QGE Provided a system of dual redundant RTU’s to act as the gateway between the solar farm control system and the Powerlink/AEMO interfaces. With QGE’s RTU acting as the primary gateway device between the solar farm and TNSP and AEMO, the correct mapping of data and reliable communications failover methods are critical. QGE developed and managed the data mappings between the two systems and coordinated the needs of various stakeholders.

As there was no standalone transformer automatic voltage control regulator (AVR) controller on site, QGE engineered a custom controller using embedded logic within the RTU to control the transformers OLTC. Once implemented, the AVR worked accurately and reliably, maintaining system voltages.

Outcomes

QGE worked closely with Powerlink to test all communications paths and failover modes, both in-house, and at Powerlink’s offices to ensure any issues were identified prior to site works. Due to the significant in-house testing, QGE were able to minimise the on-site testing and configuration which resulted in significantly expedited testing with Powerlink and AEMO for the required data points. Thanks to QGE’s dedicated remote support during commissioning, the need for site travel was reduced and QGE were able to provide quick and effective support to ensure the project’s success.

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