securing your power and your future

PROJECT NAME:

Not-For-Profit Mini-Grid

PROJECT NAME
Not-For-Profit Mini-Grid
SYSTEM TYPE / APPLICATION
Off Grid – Mini Grid
LOCATION
Flinders Ranges (Andyamathanha Country), SA
INSTALLED
Feb 2013
KEY BRANDS
SMA, Tindo Solar, Battery Energy Australia

PROJECT DETAIL

Objective & Site Considerations:

The requirement for a renewable power solution for this project was primarily to reduce the on-going fuel consumption and maintenance costs of the remote facility. In addition, the promotion of clean and sustainable energy sources was a factor in the choice of the power system investment.

At peak occupancy the property accomodates 40 people for a short time, but for most of the year there is only one or two people on site.

The power system for this not-for-profit organisation would be funded by a private investment trust.

System Design: 

Property loads included pumps, workshop and office equipment, cooking equipment, fridges/freezers, and lighting.

The desert-like conditions dicated a choice of reliable and robust soalr modules, and the pre-assembled equipment container included passive cooling features.

  • 128kWh Battery Energy VRLA batteries
  • 52x Tindo Solar 250W Modules (18kW)
  • 44kVA Kohler Diesel Generator
  • 6 x SMA SI5048 Inverter Chargers
  • 3 x SMA SMC6000 Solar Inverters

Project Outcome:

Apart from the long-term financial and environmental benefits of the renewable mini-grid system, the property is now much quieter with reduced noise pollution removed, and cleaner with less fuel & oils kept on site. The diesel fuel savings from the installation of the system will have a payback of roughly four years.

“The consultation, support and service during the development of speci cations for the plant was exceptional. The standard of workmanship on the plant is outstanding. The installation whilst carried out in very trying conditions, was first-rate.” – John Shepherd, Operation Flinders Foundation