Canadian utility TransAlta Corporation has successfully commissioned a 38 MW solar capacity project with co-located storage in the Northern Goldfields region of Western Australia. The site is now actively supplying renewable power to mining giant BHP Group Plc, marking a significant step in advancing clean energy solutions for remote mining operations.
The Northern Goldfields Solar and Battery Storage Facility comprises two key components: the 27.4 MW Mt Keith Solar Farm and the 10.7 MW Leinster Solar Farm, complemented by the 10.1 MW Leinster battery energy storage system (BESS). This integrated infrastructure enables the effective harnessing and storage of solar energy, contributing to reliable and sustainable power supply.
Under a power purchase agreement (PPA), the output generated by the solar farms is dedicated to BHP's remote nickel mining operations in Western Australia. The completion of the Northern Goldfields project signifies a significant milestone in TransAlta's efforts to expand its renewable energy portfolio and underscores the growing role of solar power in meeting the energy needs of industrial sectors.
The Northern Goldfields Solar and Battery Storage Facility has seamlessly integrated into TransAlta's existing 169 MW Southern Cross Energy North remote network in Western Australia. This strategic integration enhances the efficiency and reach of TransAlta's renewable energy infrastructure, facilitating the delivery of clean power to critical mining operations.
The collaboration between TransAlta and BHP reflects a shared commitment to sustainable energy solutions, addressing the energy requirements of remote and off-grid industrial activities. The successful commissioning of the solar facility highlights the potential for renewable energy to play a pivotal role in powering essential operations while contributing to a greener and more sustainable energy landscape.
