Name of the Project
Agnew mine energy microgrid.

Location
Western Australia.

Project Owner/s
The microgrid will be owned and operated by EDL, which will recoup its investment through a ten-year electricity supply agreement with Agnew.

Project Description
The Agnew mine will become one of Australia’s first mining operations to be predominantly powered by renewable and low-carbon energy.

The microgrid will combine wind, solar, gas and battery storage.

It is initially forecast to provide 55% to 60% of the mine’s energy needs, with potential to meet almost all energy requirements at certain times.

The project includes:

∙ five wind turbines that will deliver 18 MW of power;

∙ a 10 000-panel solar farm contributing 4 MW;

∙ a 13 MW/4 MWh battery energy storage system; and

∙ a 16 MW gas engine power station to underpin supply when required.

Stage 1 is a new off-grid 23 MW power station incorporating 16 MW gas and 3 MW diesel generation and 4 MW photovoltaic solar, which is on track for completion in mid-2019.

Stage 2 includes 18 MW wind generation, a 13 MW battery and an advanced microgrid control system, with construction recently started and due for completion in 2020.

Potential Job Creation
Not stated.

Capital Expenditure
A$112-million.

Planned Start/End Date
The project is expected to be completed in 2020.

Latest Developments
The project is under construction and has the support of the Australian government, with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency contributing a recoupable A$13.5-million to its construction.

Key Contracts and Suppliers
None stated.

On Budget and on Time?
Too early to state.

Contact Details for Project Information
EDL Australia, tel +61 7 3275 5555.