Hybrid power plants are facilities that integrate two or more different sources of energy generation into a single system.
The goal of these plants is to leverage the strengths of each energy source and mitigate their individual weaknesses.
By combining multiple sources, hybrid power plants aim to achieve higher efficiency, increased reliability, and a more stable electricity supply.
An example of a hybrid power is Coober Pedy, the well-known opal mining town in the remote outback of South Australia, now has its own hybrid power plant.
The town was never connected to the main power grid and relied solely on diesel generators for electricity until as recently as 2017 when the community benefitted from the development of a hybrid power station to provide all its energy needs.
The project was built and is owned and operated by EDL.
Electricity is generated by a combination of wind and solar with battery storage, and diesel has been relegated to the background as a backup power source, saving over two million litres of diesel per year. This equates to a decrease in the use of diesel by over 70%, or a reduction in carbon emissions of approximately 5,900 tonnes per year.
During the day, solar energy generates enough heat to generate 1MW of electricity and the wind turbines produce 4MW. These renewable energy generation sources often provide enough electricity to supply the town for long periods of time, with 97 hours straight being the current standing longest period of continuous supply.
However, even if the wind or sun is not playing the game, the battery energy storage system (BESS) is there to deliver power from any excess gains, as needed. As a final backup, diesel powered generators step in to provide electricity to the township at times of low energy production by the renewables.
The hybrid power plant ensures nearly 100% reliable electricity supply to this outback town, with lower costs. The system is capable of operating solely off renewables for long periods, with them providing approximately 70% of energy needs. Furthermore, the use of sustainable energy sources means Coober Pedy is doing its bit to reduce carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels, while gaining an improved delivery of energy — all off the main grid.
DEUTZ Australia, in collaboration with our extensive network of authorised dealers, is well-equipped to support you in establishing a new hybrid power plant or upgrading your existing one. Our system is intricately designed to seamlessly adapt to the unique weather conditions and environment of New Zealand.
The process commences with a meticulous assessment to determine the optimal quantity of on-site solar panels. These panels are used to fulfill the power output requirements while accommodating the diverse terrains of your location. The energy harnessed from these solar panels is effectively stored within our innovative and expandable battery storage system.
To ensure an uninterrupted power supply to critical businesses and sites, we have seamlessly integrated a dependable DEUTZ diesel generator into the system. This generator acts as a fail-safe measure, ensuring reliability.