Kathleen Valley: A New Era of Off-Grid Renewable Energy in Mining

Sydney, Australia, 22 November 2024 – Sungrow, a globally recognized provider of PV inverters and energy storage systems, has announced its instrumental role in the Kathleen Valley Operation, Australia’s largest off-grid hybrid renewable energy system. This groundbreaking project, developed in partnership with Zenith Energy and Liontown Resources, establishes a new standard for integrating renewable energy solutions within the mining sector, promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impacts in one of Australia’s key industries.

Australia’s mining sector, contributing 10-11% of the nation’s GDP and generating a record $455 billion in export revenue during 2022-23, remains a cornerstone of the economy, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Situated in a remote area of Western Australia, Kathleen Valley lacks access to traditional power infrastructure but boasts abundant mining resources. Off-grid energy solutions are critical for ensuring reliable and continuous operations in such remote settings. This renewable energy system aims to reduce dependence on expensive, polluting diesel fuel, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and minimize energy costs. Furthermore, it supports the industry's transition to sustainable practices, helps mining companies comply with stricter environmental regulations, and enhances their overall sustainability.

The project incorporates a state-of-the-art hybrid power system featuring 17 MW / 20 MWh of battery storage, 17 MW of solar power, and 30 MW of wind energy. Additionally, it includes 32 MW of thermal generation, consisting of 27 MW of gas and 5 MW of diesel. Sungrow’s advanced technologies, including the SG350HX string inverter, SC4000UD-MV power conversion system, and ST2236UX PowerTitan liquid cooling energy storage system, deliver an efficient renewable energy solution. Since commissioning on 30 June 2024, the system has powered the site on 100% renewable energy for three and a half consecutive days. Designed to achieve up to an 80% renewable energy fraction annually, it significantly reduces the site’s carbon footprint and sets a new benchmark for sustainable mining operations.

Joe Zhou, Sungrow Australia’s Country Director, stated, “We are proud to collaborate with Zenith Energy and Liontown Resources on this transformative project. By integrating advanced renewable energy solutions, we are driving the mining sector’s energy transition and showcasing the potential of sustainable innovation in one of Australia’s most vital economic industries.”

Sungrow, along with its partners Zenith Energy and Liontown Resources, is pioneering the integration of renewable energy systems in the mining industry. As Australia progresses toward its 2050 net-zero emissions goal, this initiative stands as a model for decarbonizing traditionally challenging sectors like mining. Sungrow remains committed to delivering cutting-edge, sustainable solutions across a range of industries to support a greener future.

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