The Department of Agriculture commissioned NDY to conduct a study of the power supply system at the Kununurra Checkpoint.
The objective of the study was to reduce or eliminate the use of diesel generated power. It was the conclusion of the study that the wind resource at the location was inadequate to sustain a wind turbine system; however, a system of solar panels could contribute up to 75% of the measured load of 120 kWh per day.
NDY was subsequently engaged to design, document and manage the construction of a hybrid power system.
The system design incorporated:
- A 20 kVa solar array
- 1200 amp hour battery bank
- 20 kVa DC to AC inverter
- Switchboards and submains
- Integration of the existing diesel generator into the system.
The lighting at the site was replaced with high efficiency fluorescents. The system saves an estimated A$40,000 per annum in fuel and maintenance costs. It is estimated that it will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 28 tonnes per annum of CO₂.
NDY is pleased to have been able to assist the Department of Agriculture in its contribution to the Energy Smart Government Initiative.
