Project Background
The Mt Weld Project, operated by Lynas Rare Earths, is a significant rare earths mining operation in Western Australia. The project is transitioning from diesel to a hybrid gas and renewable energy solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower power costs.
Renewable Integration
The project integrates 7 MW of solar, 24 MW of wind, and a 12 MW/12 MWh BESS, enabling “Engine Off” capabilities. The goal is to cover up to 70% of the project’s energy needs with renewable energy by 2026, reducing its reliance on diesel and lowering emissions.
How Zenith is Leading the Sector
Zenith Energy is spearheading the renewable transition at Mt Weld with a 65 MW hybrid power station, featuring wind, solar, and battery storage. By overseeing the design, construction, and operation of this station, Zenith is solidifying its position as a leader in renewable energy solutions within the mining sector, with over 100 MW of contracted wind capacity.
Installed capacity
- Thermal: 17 MW high-efficiency gas-fired power plant, plus 5 MW of backup diesel generation
- Solar: 7 MW
- Wind: 24MW, Consisting of 4 x 6MW Goldwind Turbines with a rotor Diameter of 165M, and a total height of 212M.
- BESS: 12 MW/12 MWh Battery Energy Storage System
- Synchronous condensers: 2 x 5MVAr Syncon.
- ‘Engine Off’ enabled – the ability to operate on 100% renewable energy when conditions allow.
- Renewable energy fraction: The goal is for approximately 70% of the project’s energy needs to be met by renewable energy.
Commercial operation date (COD)
- Diesel Powerstation is already complete
- Gas Powerstation is scheduled for Q1 CY2025.
- Solar and BESS is scheduled for Q3 CY2025.
- The wind farm is scheduled to commence commercial operations in Q1 2026.
Contract term
The Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is for a 15-year term, starting from the commercial operation of the wind farm.
Client’s decarbonisation objective
Lynas Rare Earths is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning from diesel to a gas-fired hybrid renewable power station. The decommissioning of the existing diesel power plant will occur once the gas-fired station is operational. This transition aligns with Lynas’ goal of lowering emissions while also reducing the cost of power compared to a thermal-only solution.
Additional information
Zenith Energy is responsible for the design, construction, ownership, operation, and maintenance of the Mt Weld Hybrid Power Station, which will have a total installed capacity of 65 MW upon completion. Early construction works began in 2023 under Preliminary and Early Works Agreements with Lynas. This collaboration with Lynas further solidifies Zenith Energy’s leadership in the renewable energy transition within the mining sector, with contracted wind capacity now exceeding 100 MW.