Entura-designed hydropower plant in Laos now operational

The Nam Pha Gnai hydropower plant in Laos, designed by Entura, has begun generating electricity after completion of construction in September 2019.

A commissioning ceremony took place in November 2019 in Pha Noi village, attended by government officials, local authorities and business operators, as well as Entura representatives.

Located in the Nam Ngum river basin at the convergence of the Nam Ngum, Nam Pha Noi and Nam Pha Gnai rivers, the 19.2 MW run-of-river hydropower project comprises a 70m-high concrete gravity dam, 1.2m-long headrace tunnel, 5.1km-long channel, forebay, 280m-long surface penstock and three Francis turbines (2 x 7.4 MW + 1 x 4.4 MW) housed in a surface powerhouse.

Construction of the project began in October 2014 with an investment of about US$68 million by the DSK Group. Entura was awarded a contract for Owner’s Engineer services in 2014.

“Entura’s technical expertise and excellent performance in the preliminary stages led to its subsequent engagement for the detailed engineering contract,” said Mr Sayasith Sanakeo, Managing Director, DSK Group.

“Entura’s expertise was a key factor in the smooth progress of construction and the optimisation of many elements of the project, resulting in significant savings on excavation and concrete.”

To reduce excavation and concrete, Entura used an arch profile for the dam, sloped the foundation level upstream, provided a cantilever crest upstream, and used an unconventional gate structure and arrangement.

Entura also significantly reduced excavation by revising the proposed layout of the approach road and canal, ensuring slope stability in the headworks area through phase 2 software analysis, and relocating the powerhouse to decrease rock excavation and the length of the tailrace.

In addition, costs were reduced by using concrete pipes (cast in situ) rather than concrete-pier-supported bridges to enable canals to cross streams.

“We are pleased to support Laos in developing its hydropower sector,” said Entura’s Director International Business. 

“In our work on this project, we made very high priorities of protecting the natural environment, avoiding adverse social impacts, and ensuring sustainability into the future.”

Entura has also supported a number of significant hydropower projects in Laos with feasibility studies and owner’s engineer services including Nam Long 2, Nam Long 3, Nam Ngum 2 and Nam Ngum 3 hydropower projects. As well, Entura has played a key role in drafting new dam safety guidelines to form part of the Laos Electrical Power Technical Standards.

Entura continues to support Tonga’s clean energy journey

Entura has been engaged by the Asian Development Bank to continue its involvement in Tonga’s journey towards a more sustainable and resilient future powered by renewable energy.

Tonga comprises more than 170 South Pacific islands, many uninhabited. Like many island nations in the Pacific, Tonga is facing the urgent challenges of climate change. A key element in building greater environmental sustainability and climate resilience is increasing the proportion of renewable energy generation and storage and decreasing the reliance on emissions-intensive and expensive imported diesel fuel.

The government of Tonga has a renewable energy target of 50% by 2020 and 70% by 2030. It has completed more than 14 projects to date, and is working on 9 new projects under the Tonga Renewable Energy Project (TREP) due to be completed before the end of 2020.

Funded by the Green Climate Fund, Asian Development Bank, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Government of Tonga, the TREP project will provide storage and grid stability on the main island of Tongatapu, allowing installation of more than 10 MW of new private investment in renewable generation to help achieve the 50% target. On the outer islands, TREP will provide new storage and renewable generation on 7 islands, including 5 new mini-grids for islands that do not currently have a power station or reliable power supply.

Entura previously undertook technical, financial and economic feasibility assessments and due diligence on each of the TREP projects, supporting Tonga’s applications for project finance. Entura has also supported Tonga through the procurement of these projects, with the final tender recently closing.

Entura is now poised to continue its involvement into the next phase by again supporting Tonga to ensure TREP projects are successfully delivered on time. Entura will review contractors’ designs, witness testing, and monitor and supervise work on site as the TREP projects are constructed.

“Securing funding for TREP and commencing implementation of these projects is an important milestone for Tonga,” said Tonga Power Limited CEO Seti Chen.

“The most critical stage of delivery is now underway, and we are pleased to be working with experienced partners including Entura to ensure that this can be done on time, and with a high-quality outcome.”

The new renewable energy developments will enable greater access to modern, reliable energy services for the population of approximately 104 000, and will enable greater energy security and affordability by lessening reliance on imported diesel.

“The people and government of Tonga are expecting to see the impact on future electricity tariffs of adopting a 50% share of renewable energy,” said Paula Ma’u, CEO of Tonga’s Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications (MEIDECC).

The renewable energy projects will help Tonga meet its environmental targets, and will contribute to climate change adaptation programs for areas already witnessing rising sea levels and associated issues such as erosion of roads and sea walls, increased salinity, and damage to buildings.

“Enabling safe and sustainable renewable power developments that make a positive and enduring contribution to communities is very important to us, and we are always pleased to bring our expertise to assist our Pacific neighbours with their renewable energy journeys,” said Entura’s Managing Director, Tammy Chu.

Over a number of years, Entura has successfully delivered a range of renewable energy solutions across the Pacific including remote island projects in the Cook Islands, Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Tuvalu and the Federated States of Micronesia. The firm has developed a world-leading approach to off-grid and fringe-of-grid megawatt-scale development through its experience with hybrid renewables projects. 

Entura welcomes new milestone in Tuvalu’s renewable energy journey

Specialist power and water consulting firm Entura welcomes the announcement of a $6 million grant from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support Tuvalu’s journey towards its goal of 100% renewable electricity generation by 2025.

With funding from the ADB, Entura has been supporting the Pacific nation’s renewable energy journey with planning and feasibility studies for solar and battery projects, which are now set to become reality through the Increasing Access to Renewable Energy Project, funded by the grant.

Like many island nations in the Pacific, Tuvalu’s nine islands are facing the urgent threats of climate change. Transitioning from emissions intensive and expensive diesel generation to greater proportions of renewable energy will contribute to the country’s environmental targets, climate resilience and sustainability, as well as the affordability and reliability of its electricity services.

The grant will enable installation of rooftop solar and battery storage systems to boost renewables from 15 per cent to 32 per cent in Tuvalu’s capital, Funafuti. As well, ground-mounted solar on the islands of Nukufetau, Nukulaelae, and Nui will increase their proportion of renewable generation to more than 90 per cent. Entura performed due diligence of social, environmental, financial, economic and technical aspects of the projects to satisfy ADB requirements for awarding the grant to Tuvalu.

Entura has also been involved with the preparation of tender documents and managing the tender process on behalf of Tuvalu Electricity Corporation to procure the contractors and equipment for the Increasing Access to Renewable Energy Project, with tenders closing in early December.

Once complete, an average of 35 per cent of Tuvalu’s day-time electricity is expected to be generated from solar, with short, regular periods of 100 per cent renewables.

“It is very gratifying to see our preliminary work in Tuvalu move into its next stages,” said Tammy Chu, Entura’s Managing Director.

“We will welcome any further opportunities to support Tuvalu’s energy journey, drawing on our extensive experience of planning and implementing renewable generation and storage projects in many other Pacific nations, as well as in Australia and South-East Asia.”

Over the years, Entura has successfully delivered a range of renewable energy solutions across the Pacific including remote island projects in the Cook Islands, Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Tonga and the Federated States of Micronesia. The firm has developed a world-leading approach to off-grid and fringe-of-grid megawatt-scale development through its experience with hybrid renewables projects. Entura has recently been awarded the construction supervision phase of Tonga’s renewable energy program, making it the only consultant to have worked on all phases of any ADB project in the Pacific.

Entura to support construction of Jemalong Solar Project as Owner’s Engineer

Specialist power and water consulting firm Entura welcomes Genex Power’s achievement of financing to enable construction of the Jemalong Solar Project in New South Wales. Entura was engaged to deliver Owner’s Engineer services for the project, building on its strong relationship with Genex Power.

With the announcement of financing, construction is set to commence on the 50 MW solar PV project near Forbes in central-west New South Wales, which is expected to be operational in late 2020.

Entura conducted due diligence work on the Jemalong Solar Project prior to the purchase of the project by Genex Power. Entura was also previously appointed as Owner’s Engineer for Stage 2 of Genex’s 250 MW Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project and 270 MW Kidston Solar Project in Queensland.

“We’re pleased to be partnering with Entura again to support the delivery of our latest project, in New South Wales,” said James Harding, CEO of Genex Power.

“Entura’s wealth of experience and capability in renewables and their integration into the network makes Entura the ideal partner to enable the success of our projects.”

As Owner’s Engineer on the Jemalong project, Entura will play a vital role in ensuring timely, quality outcomes for Genex Power during the design and construction phase of the project, working closely with the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor, Beon Energy Solutions.

Entura’s scope includes review of detailed design documents, EPC contractor’s plans, test plans and the provision of technical advice on key aspects of generator registration, construction and commissioning activities.

Genex Power expects the solar farm to provide enough electricity to power 23 000 homes, offsetting more than 100 000 tonnes of carbon emissions per year.

Commenting on the announcement, Entura Director Dale Bryce said, “We stand ready to support Genex to deliver its renewable energy vision, and are delighted to have the opportunity to continue to strengthen the relationship we have developed with Genex as Owner’s Engineer at Kidston and through our previous involvement at Jemalong.

“As believers in dispatchable renewables we have tuned our capabilities accordingly, especially in utility-scale hydropower, solar and wind farm developments, combining these with very strong power systems and grid connection capability.”

Entura is one of the leading consultants in renewables development and integration in Australia and the Indo-Pacific region, with significant experience in utility-scale hydropower, solar and wind farms, energy storage and grid connection. The firm works with clients to help tackle the challenges of creating hybrid renewable energy projects, from grid-connected and utility-scale to small, isolated systems.

Entura experts share insights on hydropower potential in Australia

In a new article published in the latest issue of the International Journal on Hydropower & Dams (vol 26, issue 4, 2019), Entura’s Donald Vaughan shared his insights into the current and future opportunities for hydropower in Australia. 

The article ‘The resurgence of hydropower in Australia’ explores the drivers of the boom in renewable energy and the implications of this for grid management. The author explores the role of hydropower and pumped hydro energy storage to support the energy transition in Australia. He considers the challenges and benefits of various storage options, and describes opportunities across the country for redevelopment or conversion of existing hydropower schemes or for the development of pumped hydro energy storage projects in a range of configurations.

You can subscribe to the journal at www.hydropower-dams.com/journal.

For more insights into these topics, browse our Natural Thinking articles.

Entura shares Asian hydropower experience

In the August issue of International Water Power & Dam Construction magazine, Entura’s immediate past Director for International Business, Ajay Sharma, shared some of Entura’s hydropower project experience across Asia, and offered recommendations for successful hydropower development.

Download the PDF article here. 

To find out more about Entura’s hydropower services contact Dale Bryce on +61 409 984 447. 

Entura appointed Owner’s Engineer for Jemalong Solar Farm

Specialist power and water consulting firm Entura has been engaged by Genex Power to deliver owner’s engineer services for the Jemalong Solar Farm in New South Wales.

Image courtesy of Genex Power

The 50 MW solar PV project, near Forbes in central-west New South Wales, was recently purchased by Genex Power.

Entura was previously appointed as Owner’s Engineer for Stage 2 of Genex’s 250 MW Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project and 270 MW Kidston Solar Project in Queensland. Entura also conducted due diligence work on the Jemalong Solar Farm prior to the purchase of the project by Genex Power.

“We’re pleased to be partnering with Entura again to support the delivery of our latest project, in New South Wales,” said James Harding, CEO of Genex Power.

“Entura’s wealth of experience and capability in renewables and their integration into the network makes Entura the ideal partner to enable the success of our projects.”

As Owner’s Engineer on the Jemalong project, Entura will play a vital role in ensuring timely, quality outcomes for Genex Power during the design and construction phase of the project, working closely with the preferred engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor, UGL.

Entura’s scope includes review of detailed design documents, EPC contractor’s plans, test plans and the provision of technical advice on key aspects of generator registration, construction and commissioning activities.

Genex Power expects the solar farm to be operational by the second half of 2019, with the capacity to power 23 000 homes, offsetting more than 100 000 tonnes of carbon emissions per year.

Commenting on the appointment, Entura Director Dale Bryce said, “We are pleased to be acting as Genex’s Owner’s Engineer at Kidston and now at Jemalong, helping Genex deliver its renewable energy vision.

“As believers in dispatchable renewables we have tuned our capabilities accordingly, especially in utility-scale hydropower, solar and wind farm developments, combining these with very strong power systems and grid connection capability.”

Entura is one of the leading consultants in renewables development and integration in Australia and the Indo-Pacific region, with significant experience in utility-scale hydropower, solar and wind farms, energy storage and grid connection. The firm works with clients to help tackle the challenges of creating hybrid renewable energy projects, from grid-connected and utility-scale to small, isolated systems.

Entura supports dam safety improvement in Laos

Entura is supporting the efforts of the Government of Laos to increase the safety of its existing and future dams.

“We are bringing our expertise in dam safety to make a positive and enduring difference in Laos, where hydropower is a major contributor to the economy and community,” said Entura’s Director of International Business Development and Managing Director India.

“The critical importance of this work is underlined by the recent failures of the Xepian Xe Namnoy dam and the Nam Aow dam,” he said.

International consulting firm PWC and Entura were engaged to conduct a work program, including visiting a number of projects across the country and studying the existing provisions for dam safety under the prevailing legal framework.

In response, Entura has now drafted a set of eight dam safety guidelines, relating to aspects such as geology and geotechnical investigations; quality during construction and commissioning; ongoing safety surveillance; management and governance; training of personnel; and how to prepare and implement an Emergency Action Plan to deal with disasters, such as the Xe-Pian Xe-Namnoy failure in July 2018.

“Entura has partnered with many clients in the Mekong region to deliver solutions across the whole lifecycle of hydropower projects, including internationally recognised approaches to dam safety and we are pleased to support Laos in its efforts towards greater dam safety and energy security,” said Entura’s Director of International Business Development and Managing Director India.

“We acknowledge the support of many parties in framing these guidelines, including the Government of Laos, Ministry of Energy and Mines, World Bank, PWC – India, Multiconsult, the expert committee on dam safety, and others,” he said.

Entura has just presented the dam safety guidelines at a round-table meeting held in the capital, Vientiane. The guidelines are expected to be implemented after ministerial approval and will form part of the existing Laos Electrical Power Technical Standards.

Entura is supporting a number of significant hydropower projects in Laos, including owner’s engineer services for the Nam Long 2 and Nam Long 3 hydropower projects, and feasibility studies for the Nam Ngum 2 and Nam Ngum 3 hydropower projects.

Entura has also provided customised training through the Entura clean energy and water institute, and supported the sustainable development of the Mekong region through sustainability assessment and participation in regional forums.

Entura’s Ajit Garg presenting the dam safety guidelines at the round-table meeting in Laos

Entura helps Cook Islands reach another milestone towards 100% renewable energy

Entura has helped the Cook Islands achieve another milestone in its push to reduce reliance on diesel fuel and move towards the country’s renewable energy goals.

The Cook Islands is a group of 15 small islands in the Pacific, to the north-east of New Zealand. Entura is working towards enabling the conversion of the power supply of six southern islands of the 12 inhabited islands in the group from mainly diesel generation to solar/battery hybrid systems that will supply 100% of the populations’ energy needs.

The solar/battery hybrid project on the island of Mangaia, the third of the six southern islands, is now operational and was officially opened last week. Mangaia can now switch off its diesel generators and run entirely on clean and reliable solar and battery power thanks to its new hybrid renewable power system. A similar plant in Mitiaro opened in May, followed by another in Atiu in August.

Hybrid energy projects on another southern island – Mauke – will be completed over coming months, followed by a range of other initiatives on a further two islands, Rarotonga and Aitutaki, which have higher power demands. Power systems there will be upgraded to increase levels of renewable energy generation and provide control systems and battery storage technology to manage high levels of renewables.

The new renewable energy developments will expand the island populations’ access to modern, reliable energy services, enable greater energy security and reduce reliance on costly, emissions-intensive diesel fuel.

Entura is supporting hybrid renewable energy developments in the Cook Islands

“Energy security and self-sufficiency are essential for remote and isolated locations such as the Cook Islands,” said Entura’s Managing Director, Tammy Chu. “Diesel fuel remains the single largest expense to generate power on many Pacific islands, so using renewable energy makes good economic sense as well as reducing carbon and other emissions.

“Enabling safe and sustainable renewable power developments that make a positive and enduring contribution to communities is very important to us, and we are pleased to bring our expertise to assist our Pacific neighbours with their renewable energy journeys,” said Tammy Chu.

Entura is providing owner’s engineer services for these projects; undertaking concept studies; proposing optimum solutions to achieve the project objectives; assessing technical, environmental, social and economic viability; supporting procurement; and overseeing implementation.

As well, Entura has delivered strategic advice to assist with energy policy development for the Cook Islands. The Cook Islands Renewable Energy Chart Implementation Plan encapsulates this strategy.

Along with the similar systems previously completed on six Northern Group islands, Entura’s work with the six southern island projects will achieve significant progress towards the Cook Islands’ target of 100% renewable energy by 2020.

“The commitment to renewable energy is a fundamental prerequisite for sustainable development,” said Tangi Tereapii, Director of the Renewable Energy Development Division of the Cook Islands Government.

“It also underlines the Government’s commitment to addressing climate change, preserving the country’s pristine environment and ecosystems, and strengthening the level of energy security which is a foundation for sustainable economic growth.

“The Cook Islands Government recognises the professionalism of the partnership with Entura, which ensures that these projects are implemented in a way that blends our islands’ culture and mana [power].”

Funding for the Cook Islands projects comes from multiple funding streams providing great experience dealing with different donors and different rules. The funding streams include an Asian Development Bank loan of NZD12.98 million, a European Union Grant of €5.3 million, committed funding from the Global Environment Facility of USD4.1 million, a product grant from the Pacific Environment Community of USD3.9 million, as well as a government allocation for dedicated resources and land compensation.

Entura people set to boost diversity on boards

Two of Entura’s emerging leaders have received scholarships to help prepare them for future board positions.

Sandra Thaow (Group Manager, Grid and Power) and Fariba Jaffari (Electrical Engineer, Power Systems) have been named among the 17 successful recipients of Board Diversity Government Scholarships, an initiative under the Tasmanian Government’s Women on Boards Strategy, which aims to increase female representation on government boards and committees to 50 per cent by 2020 (from 42.9% at August 2018).

Entura’s Sandra Thaow (left) and Fariba Jaffari (right)

The scholarships will enable Sandra and Fariba to undertake the Foundations of Directorship course delivered by the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD), join the AICD as Members and get access to corporate governance mentoring and AICD networking events.

“Two of the main impediments to women aspiring to leadership and board roles are a lack of confidence that they are ready for the role, and having the opportunity to take up such a role,” said Sandra, who has not yet served on a board but is keen to take up a future board position with a not-for-profit or charity.

“One of the benefits I’m most looking forward to from this scholarship is the relationships that I will make, which will help me to find board opportunities,” she said.

Both Sandra and Fariba found out about the scholarships through Hydro Tasmania’s global communications, and have received strong support from their managers.

“I am very pleased to work in a company that values diversity in its workforce,” said Fariba Jaffari, “and to live in a country that gives opportunities to women from migrant and refugee backgrounds, Aboriginal women, and women working in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM) to show their abilities and aspire to be board members and take up leadership roles.”

Entura MD, Tammy Chu, said, “We value diversity.  It makes us stronger together. And what is true of our workplace is equally true of our broader communities.  Diversity of thought and backgrounds leads to better outcomes overall.

“I am delighted with the recognition Sandra and Fariba have achieved.”

Entura named Owner’s Engineer for Dundonnell Wind Farm

Specialist power and water consulting firm Entura has been named by Tilt Renewables as the Owner’s Engineer for the Dundonnell Wind Farm in Victoria, Australia.

Located north-east of Mortlake in western Victoria, the wind farm will consist of 80 wind turbines, producing up to 336 MW of clean, renewable electricity with a connection into the National Electricity Market via a new 38 km, 220 kV transmission line.

Tilt Renewables was successful in bidding for the Dundonnell Wind Farm to be part of the Victorian Government’s Victorian Renewable Energy Auction Scheme (VREAS), securing a Support Agreement by the state.

Clayton Delmarter, General Manager – Renewable Development, from Tilt Renewables said, “With the project having recently achieved financial close, we now look to Entura to undertake design review and construction monitoring services for the wind farm and balance of plant, transmission line and a new terminal station.

“This is an exciting time for us, with construction commencement now anticipated in early 2019 and commercial operation scheduled for the third quarter of 2020.”

In announcing financial close for the project, Tilt Renewables highlighted the establishment of an agreement for a shared transmission line solution, available to other wind farm operators in the area – avoiding the need to duplicate infrastructure. To enable this, Tilt Renewables will construct a 15 km, dual-circuit section as part of the total 38 km of new transmission line required for the Dundonnell Wind Farm.

Entura’s Managing Director Tammy Chu said, “Having supported Tilt Renewables in the lead up to financial close, we are pleased to continue that partnership as Owner’s Engineer at Dundonnell, working alongside Vestas as the Engineering, Procurement and Construction contractor and AusNet Services as the Transmission Network Services Provider to deliver a successful project.”

Tilt Renewables’ Salt Creek Wind Farm (pictured) signposts further renewables development in western Victoria. Dundonnell Wind Farm too has reached financial close, and Entura has been appointed as Owner’s Engineer (image courtesy of Tilt Renewables)

Entura draws on more than 20 years of experience at the forefront of the industry, developing and delivering wind farms and other renewable energy solutions in Australia and across the Indo-Pacific region. Recently Entura launched an online hub with insights and resources to help renewable energy project developers, power utilities and investors understand and assess the different types of energy storage solutions, particularly mainstream contenders such as pumped hydro and large batteries.

“Baseload fossil fuel generation can be replaced by a combination of variable renewables, dispatchable renewables, and smart network support and planning to ensure sufficient transmission capacity,” said Dale Bryce, Entura’s Director Customer Strategy & Market Development, on launching the online hub at dispatchablerenewables.entura.com.

Dispatchable renewables: it’s time to start planning the transition

What if the wind doesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine? This is a very familiar question for those in the renewable energy industry – and the answer these days seems to be pretty obvious: you add storage. However, the right type and amount of storage required is not so obvious, according to specialist power and water consulting firm Entura. 

“As old thermal generation assets retire and as the world moves towards a lower emissions future, we need to solve the ‘energy trilemma’. In other words, we need an energy future that is affordable, sustainable and reliable,” says Dale Bryce, Customer Strategy & Market Development Director at Entura.

“The role of renewable generation in achieving affordable and sustainable energy is clear. Wind and solar PV now offer the lowest cost of new energy development, have low ongoing operational costs, and near zero emissions.”

However, replacing coal-fired power stations with wind and solar is not a like-for-like swap in terms of availability of power when it is needed by consumers because generation from renewables varies due to the availability of the natural resource.  So how can we achieve the third element of the ‘energy trilemma’: reliability, at the right cost?

Entura has launched this week dispatchablerenewables.entura.com – an online hub with insights and resources to help renewable energy project developers, power utilities and investors to understand and assess the different types of storage solutions, particularly mainstream contenders such as pumped hydro and large batteries. 

“We’re excited about the possibilities of combining multiple forms of renewable energy generation with storage solutions, to create sustainable and fully dispatchable power from the natural resources of water, sun and wind. We call it dispatchable renewables,” says Dale.   

Dale explains that dispatchable renewables will be an important part of the solution to the energy trilemma, but not the only solution. “Baseload fossil fuel generation can be replaced by a combination of variable renewables, dispatchable renewables, and smart network support and planning to ensure sufficient transmission capacity.”

“We know that implementing these solutions can take a long time, but if the industry is serious about solving the energy trilemma, the time to start planning for the transition is now.” 

Entura boosts hydropower capability in India

Specialist power and water consulting firm Entura has appointed Mr Lal Chand Goyal as Specialist Consultant Hydropower, based in its New Delhi office, in India.

Mr Goyal has more than 20 years of experience in hydropower projects ranging from 5 MW to 1750 MW in India, Bhutan and Africa.

“Lal Chand is very well regarded in the hydropower industry for his technical capabilities and we are delighted to welcome him to Entura,” said Entura’s International Business Development Director.

Mr Goyal’s experience encompasses preparation of prefeasibility and full feasibility studies, tender-stage engineering, specifications, detailed engineering-stage design, and refurbishment and review engineering, as well as project management of hydropower projects from concept to commissioning.

“I am very pleased and excited to join one of the world’s leading power and water consulting firms,” said Mr Goyal. “I’m looking forward to applying my skills and experience to support the ongoing development of a safe, sustainable and successful hydropower sector across India and our neighboring countries.”

Before joining Entura, Mr Goyal was Lead Civil Engineer at Energy Infratech. He has also worked on a range of hydropower projects for the Indian National Hydroelectric Power Corporation. 

He holds a Bachelor in Civil Engineering from MBM Engineering College Jodhpur and a Masters of Engineering (Hydraulics) from the renowned India Institute of Technology Roorkee. He is also a member of the Indian Society of Engineering Geology and the Indian Institution of Engineers.

Entura is one of the leading consultants in dispatchable renewables in Australia and the Indo-Pacific region, with significant experience in utility-scale hydropower, solar and wind farms, energy storage and grid connection. The firm has been working with clients around the globe on many international hydropower projects over the past decades. Recent projects in the South Asia region include Chanju-I, Pareng and Keyi hydropower projects in India, and Dordi Khola and Khani Khola in Nepal.  

Entura appointed Owner’s Engineer for Kidston dispatchable renewables hub

Specialist power and water consulting firm Entura has been engaged by Genex Power to deliver Owner’s Engineer services for Stage 2 of the 250 MW Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project and the 270 MW Kidston Solar Project.

Located in North Queensland, Australia, the two projects are the flagships of the Kidston Renewable Energy Hub, which will integrate large-scale solar with pumped hydro energy storage. A 50 MW solar farm is already in operation on the site.

Entura previously completed the Technical Feasibility Study for the Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project, focusing on optimising the project to achieve a design which was technically and commercially feasible.

“We’re pleased to have Entura on board again, working closely with our team to support the delivery of the Kidston Stage 2 projects,” said James Harding, CEO of Genex Power. “Entura’s wealth of experience and capability in hybrid renewables and hydropower, along with intimate knowledge of the Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project, makes them the ideal partner to enable the success of our projects.”

As Owner’s Engineer, Entura will play a vital role in ensuring timely, quality outcomes for Genex Power during the construction phase of these projects, working closely with engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractors McConnell Dowell, John Holland and UGL. Entura’s scope includes a review of activities (detailed design and engineering verification, review of EPC contractors’ plans, and grid connection arrangement), project management, construction and commissioning advice.

Commenting on the appointment, Entura Managing Director, Tammy Chu, said: “As believers in dispatchable renewables we have tuned our capabilities accordingly, especially in utility-scale hydropower, solar and wind farm developments, combining these with very strong power systems and grid connection capability.

“We’re very excited to be partnering with Genex Power to help them deliver their vision to combine pumped hydro energy storage with solar PV and, in due course, wind power.”

Entura is one of the leading consultants in dispatchable renewables in Australia and the Indo-Pacific region, with significant experience in utility-scale hydropower, solar and wind farms, energy storage and grid connection. The firm works with clients to help tackle the challenges of creating hybrid renewable energy projects, from grid-connected and utility-scale to small, isolated systems.

Entura helps Infigen to connect new grid-scale battery

Specialist power and water consulting firm Entura has been engaged by Infigen Energy to deliver grid connection support services to its new 25 MW / 52 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in South Australia.

The BESS will be located adjacent to Infigen’s existing 278.5 MW Lake Bonney Wind Farm and will be connected to the National Electricity Market (NEM) via the Mayurra substation owned by ElectraNet.

“Entura brings a wealth of expertise in hybrid renewables and generator connection, coupled with previous experience with Lake Bonney Wind Farm and ElectraNet,” said Infigen CEO Mr Ross Rolfe. “We’re pleased to be partnering with Entura in this important project that will deliver improved energy security and reliability of supply for South Australian energy consumers.”  

As part of its scope, Entura has undertaken a grid connection study and is supporting Infigen as it finalises connection arrangements for the BESS.

“Grid-scale batteries play a key role in helping renewables to become dispatchable, allowing wind and solar farms to operate more flexibly and providing greater value to asset owners,” said Donald Vaughan, Entura’s Principal Consultant Electrical Primary Systems. “We’re delighted to be working once again with Infigen in this innovative project that will make a contribution to our client and the local community.”

Entura works with clients across Australia and the Pacific to help them tackle the challenges of creating hybrid renewable energy projects from small, remote locations through to utility-scale. The firm delivers safe and sustainable solutions, drawing on its extensive knowledge of all aspects across the full lifecycle of renewable energy assets, along with expertise in batteries, pumped hydro and other enabling technologies.  

Entura engineers win top gongs for engineering excellence

Specialist power and water consulting firm Entura is committed to its vision of creating safe and sustainable power and water solutions that make a positive and enduring contribution to our clients and communities. Two of its engineers received the top accolades at the Tasmania Engineering Excellence Awards for bringing that vision to life.

Tasmania’s Deputy Premier Jeremy Rockliff, Lyndon Johnson, Donald Vaughan and Tammy Chu.

Donald Vaughan, Principal Consultant, Electrical Primary Systems, was named Professional Engineer of the Year, and engineer Lyndon Johnson won the Young Professional Engineer of the Year award.

Presented during a gala event in Hobart last night, the Australian Engineering Excellence Awards (AEEA) identify, recognise and reward outstanding achievement in the practice of engineering and service to the profession, promoting industry excellence across engineering projects and professionals, and highlighting the significant contribution engineering makes to communities.

“Donald is an industry authority on the connection of wind and solar farms to weak grids and the power system dynamics of low-inertia networks,” said Tammy Chu, Entura’s Managing Director. “Donald’s knowledge and experience places him at the forefront of efforts in Australia to transition to a renewables-based energy sector and we’re very proud to have him as part of our technical leadership team.”

“Lyndon has pioneered powerful new 3D methods for presenting and interpreting data. His work will improve engineering efficiency and accuracy, and offers safety benefits for power and water assets and for communities,” said Tammy.

Commenting on his award, Donald Vaughan said: “It’s a great honour to receive this award. I’m delighted to be recognised as an advocate for the value of engineering, and for supporting a clean energy future. Enabling more renewable energy in a way that is sympathetic to the needs of the wider power system is a major contribution engineers can make towards the good of communities and the environment.”

Lyndon Johnson said: “Being nominated for this important industry accolade was very encouraging, and I’m thrilled to be named Young Professional Engineer of the Year. I hope as an industry we can keep pushing the boundaries of data and computing technologies for quicker and more accurate problem solving.”

As divisional winners, both Donald and Lyndon automatically progress to consideration for the national Engineer of the Year award, which will be announced later this year.

Project finalists

Two of Entura’s projects were selected as finalists for the Tasmania Engineering Excellence Awards: the Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project in Far North Queensland and the Yap Hybrid Renewable Energy Power System on the North Pacific island of Yap, in the Federated States of Micronesia.

Entura’s comprehensive studies and investigations undertaken for Genex Power’s Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project provided confidence in the configuration, design and feasibility of this significant project, the first pumped hydro energy storage project set to be built in Australia in decades.

“Entura’s successful completion of this feasibility study supports the resurgence of interest in pumped hydro, which is an efficient, cost-effective large-scale energy storage solution,” said Entura’s Principal Consultant, Civil Engineering, Richard Herweynen.

“Australia’s transformation towards high-quality, reliable, affordable and sustainable energy will require large-scale storage to enable weather-dependent ‘intermittent’ renewable generation (such as wind and solar) to be transformed into fully ‘dispatchable’ energy,” said Richard.

On the North Pacific island of Yap, Entura delivered a hybrid renewable energy power system.

“Our team designed and detailed the power system architecture to transform what was a manually operated 100% diesel power station into a flexible, integrated and automated power system including more wind and solar generation combined with efficient diesels,” said Entura’s project manager, Dean Haley.

Entura’s combination of renewable energy generation with an innovative automated integration and control system balances and maintains the security of the energy supply, and also maximises the amount of renewable energy used on the island.

The advanced hybrid power system is enabling Yap to experience up to 70% renewable energy in the system when conditions allow, with an overall average of 17% renewable energy, delivering an annual fuel saving of up to US$500 000. The system architecture is designed to be able to incorporate even higher proportions of renewable energy in the future.

“The hybrid renewable power system will contribute greatly to the nation’s clean energy goals by reducing Yap’s dependence on expensive, emissions-intensive diesel generation. It will provide the sustainable, reliable and affordable power needed to support social and economic development in this remote location,” said Dean.

Entura named Owner’s Engineer for Cattle Hill Wind Farm

Specialist power and water consulting firm Entura has been appointed by Goldwind Australia as Owner’s Engineers for the Cattle Hill Wind Farm in Tasmania.

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Echo in the southern side of Central Tasmania, the wind farm will consist of 48 turbines, producing up to 144 MW of clean renewable electricity. Once operational, the project will provide clean energy to power approximately 63,500 Tasmanian homes each year.

“Entura’s wealth of experience in renewable energy projects around the world, coupled with its intimate knowledge of Tasmania’s power system, will help ensure the successful delivery of this project,” said John Titchen, Managing Director of Goldwind Australia.

Electricity network operator TasNetworks is commencing all works required to connect the wind farm to the Tasmanian grid. Entura is partnering with the principal contractor Zinfra to support TasNetworks’ Waddamana substation and grid augmentation requirements.

“We’re pleased to be partnering again with Goldwind Australia, TasNetworks and Zinfra to help deliver Cattle Hill Wind Farm in our home state of Tasmania,” said Entura Managing Director Tammy Chu. “The project will make a positive and enduring contribution to our clients and the local community, as well as support the State’s future ambitions.”  

Entura recently acted as independent advisor to Goldwind Australia during construction of the White Rock Wind Farm in New South Wales, providing engineering design review and site inspections for the balance of plant contract, which included the main wind farm civil and electrical works. In Tasmania, Entura delivered end-to-end services for a number of wind power projects, including Musselroe, Woolnorth and Studland Bay wind farms.

Entura draws on more than 20 years of experience at the forefront of the industry developing and delivering wind farms in Australia. Around the world, the firm has been involved in more than 100 advanced and operational wind farms with projects totalling greater than 20 000 MW in India, South Africa, Sri Lanka, China, the Philippines, New Zealand and the Pacific.

Entura helps Cook Islands reach renewable energy milestone

Specialist power and water consulting firm Entura has helped the Cook Islands achieve the next milestone in its push to reduce reliance on diesel fuel and move towards the country’s renewable energy goals.

The Cook Islands is a group of 15 small islands in the Pacific, to the north-east of New Zealand. Of the 12 inhabited islands in the group, Entura’s work addresses the conversion of the power supply of six southern islands from mainly diesel generation to solar/battery hybrid systems that will supply 100% of the populations’ energy needs.

The hybrid renewable energy project on the southern island of Mitiaro, the first of the six islands, is now operational and was officially opened last Friday. Mitiaro can now switch off its diesel generators and run entirely on reliable solar and battery power thanks to its new hybrid renewable power system.

Hybrid energy projects on another three southern islands – Atiu, Mangaia and Mauke – will be completed over coming months, followed by a range of other initiatives on a further two islands, Rarotonga and Aitutaki, which have higher power demands. Power systems there will be upgraded to increase levels of renewable energy generation and provide control systems and battery storage technology to manage high levels of renewables.

The new renewable energy developments will expand the island populations’ access to modern, reliable energy services, enable greater energy security and reduce reliance on costly, emissions-intensive diesel fuel.

“Energy security and self-sufficiency are essential for remote islands such as the Cook Islands,” said Entura’s Managing Director, Tammy Chu. “Diesel fuel remains the single largest expense to generate power in these remote locations, so using renewable energy makes good economic sense as well as reducing carbon and other emissions.”

Entura is providing Owner’s Engineer services for these projects, undertaking concept studies and proposing optimum solutions to achieve the project objectives, assessing technical, environmental, social and economic viability, supporting procurement and overseeing implementation.

As well, Entura has delivered strategic advice to assist with energy policy development for the Cook Islands. The Cook Islands Renewable Energy Chart Implementation Plan encapsulates this strategy.

“Enabling safe and sustainable renewable power developments that make a positive and enduring contribution to communities is very important to us, and we are pleased to bring our expertise to assist our Pacific neighbours with their renewable energy journeys,” said Tammy Chu.

Along with the similar systems previously completed on six Northern Group islands, Entura’s work with the six southern island projects will achieve significant progress towards the Cook Islands’ target of 100% renewable energy by 2020.

“The commitment to renewable energy is a fundamental prerequisite to sustainable development,” said Tangi Tereapii, Director of Renewable Energy Development Division at the Cook Islands Government.

“It also underlines the Government’s commitment to addressing climate change, preserving the country’s pristine environment and ecosystems, and also strengthening the level of energy security and therefore sustainable economic growth.”

Funding for the project includes an Asian Development Bank loan of NZD12.98 million, a European Union Grant of €5.3 million, committed funding from the Global Environment Facility of USD4.1 million, a product grant of Pacific Environment Community (PEC) of USD3.9 million alongside government allocation for dedicated resource and land compensation.

Entura to support renewable energy developments in Tonga and Micronesia

Specialist power and water consulting firm Entura has been engaged by the Asian Development Bank to undertake feasibility assessments and due diligence on renewable energy projects to help Tonga and the Federated States of Micronesia achieve their renewable energy targets.

Tonga comprises more than 170 South Pacific islands, many uninhabited, while The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) boasts more than 600 islands spread across the western Pacific Ocean. Like many island nations in the Pacific, Tonga and the FSM are facing the challenges of climate change, which presents enormous and urgent threats.

Renewable energy developments will contribute to the countries’ environmental targets and climate resilience. The government of Tonga has set a 50% renewable energy target by 2020 and has identified 11 projects to achieve this. FSM’s state utilities have identified a set of investments that will contribute towards achieving the aim of 30% annual average renewable energy penetration by 2020 and 50% by 2030, and assist in meeting FSM’s Paris Accord commitment of reducing emissions by 28% by 2025 (from year 2000 levels).

In the first phase of the work, which is already underway, Entura will undertake technical, financial and economic feasibility assessments and due diligence on each of the renewable energy investment projects.

“The FSM is the first Pacific country to submit a country program to the Green Climate Fund and is now set to start developing its nationwide priority projects. These feasibility studies will support both Tonga’s and FSM’s applications to the Green Climate Fund for project finance,” said Entura’s team leader and senior project manager, Dean Haley.

“In the next phase, Entura will support the utilities with project design and procurement support to ensure that the projects can move ahead with confidence.”

As well as helping Tonga and FSM meet their environmental targets, the renewable energy projects will also contribute to climate change adaptation programs for areas already witnessing rising sea levels and associated issues such as erosion of roads and sea walls, increased salinity, and damage to buildings.

New renewable energy developments will also expand the island populations’ access to modern, reliable energy services, enable greater energy security and reduce reliance on costly, emissions-intensive diesel fuel.

Over the years, Entura has successfully delivered a range of renewable energy solutions across the Pacific including remote island projects in the Cook Islands, Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Samoa. The firm has developed a world-leading approach to off-grid and fringe-of-grid megawatt-scale development through its experience with hybrid renewables projects.  

Entura clean energy and water institute welcomes Pakistani delegation

Entura’s training division, the Entura clean energy and water institute, is welcoming a delegation from the Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), a government-owned public utility maintaining power and water assets in Pakistan.

WAPDA delegates are attending a two week training program on Hydropower Procurement and Contract Management including some modules from The International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC), an international standards organisation for the consulting engineering and construction industries.

As part of the program, attendees also have the opportunity to visit some of Tasmania’s iconic hydropower and water infrastructure assets, including Hydro Tasmania’s Gordon Dam and Power Station.

“We’re delighted to be welcoming another delegation from Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority,” said Dr Amanda Ashworth, Entura clean energy and water institute Business Manager.

“Forward-thinking utilities around the world are starting to see the need to invest in the development of their people as well as their systems and processes to help ensure implementation of sound business strategy.”

This customised training program was designed and is being delivered in conjunction with Entura’s partner organisation, the Asian Institute of Technology.

The Entura clean energy and water institute delivers training in hydropower, wind, solar and water management. Its courses are tailored to upskill businesses, particularly asset owners, in clean energy technologies and water management.

An accredited training organisation in Australia, the Entura clean energy and water institute collaborates with the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Bangkok and Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Kuala Lumpur, to deliver specialised courses in the south and south-east Asian region.