Jabiru Power Station

Client: EDL
Location: Northern Territory
Date: 2021–22 

Commissioning a remote hybrid renewable power system to provide reliable, sustainable electricity to a remote town

Background

Jabiru Power Station, located in the Northern Territory’s Kakadu National Park, is an important piece of infrastructure, providing renewable electricity to the town of Jabiru. Funded by the Northern Territory Government and developed, owned and operated by EDL, the power station will supply the town of Jabiru with reliable energy drawn from at least 50% renewable sources.

The power system comprises a 3.9 MW solar farm, 4.5 MW diesel generation and a 3 MW / 5 MWh battery. The inclusion of solar and battery energy storage reduces the amount of diesel generation that would otherwise be required, enabling the operation to avoid approximately 6,000 tonnes of CO₂e emissions per year.

EDL engaged Entura to provide commissioning support. By leveraging our owner-operator experience in managing hybrid renewable power systems, our team was confident in successfully commissioning the project.

Solution

Entura played a key role in successfully delivering the Jabiru Power Station. Our team undertook a thorough and rigorous process of planning, testing, inspecting and verifying all major components and systems of the power station.

We were responsible for developing the commissioning plan and executing it on site, ensuring that the power station met requirements and safety standards. This involved balancing and managing the diverse needs of multiple stakeholders, often navigating conflicting expectations throughout the commissioning process.

On site, Entura led troubleshooting and problem-solving efforts to resolve any issues, including design and communication challenges. Our experience in commissioning power systems ensured the many components of the power station were tested thoroughly and any issues were addressed as they arose.

A major milestone in the commissioning process was verifying the power station’s ability to operate as designed, including performing a successful ‘black start’, where the power station was restarted using only solar power and battery storage.

Outcome

Commissioned in April 2022, the Jabiru Hybrid Renewable Power Station now provides the remote community with stable and sustainable energy. During daylight hours, the town can run completely on renewable energy, with the battery providing energy during the night and diesel generators used as backup. According to its owners, the project now helps power the equivalent of 2,000 homes annually, helping meet the Northern Territory’s target of 50% renewable energy by 2030.