EDL Agnew Pty Ltd has awarded SCEE the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and the electrical balance of plant for the Agnew windfarm near Leinster in Western Australia. The works are part of the Agnew hybrid renewable energy project, with construction on site commencing this month.

In June, Gold Fields said its Agnew gold mine in Western Australia, would become one of Australia’s first mining operations to be predominantly powered by renewable and low-carbon energy following a deal with global energy group EDL.

The Agnew microgrid is initially forecast to provide 55-60% of the mine’s energy needs, with potential to meet almost all energy requirements at certain times, Gold Fields said. The Agnew microgrid will consist of five wind turbines delivering 18 MW of power, a 10,000-panel solar farm contributing 4 MW, a 13 MW/4 MWh battery energy storage system, and a 16 MW gas engine power station to underpin supply when required.