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Case Studies

Mt Weld

Mt Weld

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.

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.

Project name
Mt Weld
Location

Mt Weld, Western Australia, Australia

Client
Lynas Rare Earths
Capacity
65 MW (Hybrid System: 17 MW Gas, 5 MW Diesel, 7 MW Solar, 24 MW Wind, 12 MW/12 MWh BESS)
Fuel source
BESS, Gas, Hybrid Renewable, Solar PV, Wind
CONTRACT

15-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)

COMMENCEMENT

Gas power station scheduled for Q1 2025, solar and BESS in Q3 2025, wind farm in Q1 2026

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Case Studies

Kathleen Valley

Kathleen Valley

The project features 17 MW of solar, 30 MW of wind, and a 17 MW/20 MWh BESS, which enable "Engine Off" capabilities. The hybrid system is designed to meet up to 80% of the project's energy needs through renewable energy in the near future, significantly reducing the mine's carbon footprint.

Project Background

The Kathleen Valley Project is a lithium mining operation led by Liontown Resources. The project focuses on integrating a hybrid power solution that maximises renewable energy usage to support the energy-intensive mining process, reflecting Liontown’s commitment to sustainability.

Renewable Integration

The project features 17 MW of solar, 30 MW of wind, and a 17 MW/20 MWh BESS, which enable “Engine Off” capabilities. The hybrid system is designed to meet up to 80% of the project’s energy needs through renewable energy in the near future, significantly reducing the mine’s carbon footprint.

How Zenith is Leading the Sector

Zenith Energy has developed Australia’s largest operating off-grid hybrid power system for this project, combining renewable energy sources with thermal generation. This solution not only demonstrates Zenith’s leadership in integrating renewables in remote mining operations but also aligns with Australia’s energy transition goals.

Installed capacity

  • Thermal: Gas – 27MW, Diesel 5MW, Total 32MW
  • LNG Storage and Regasification Facility
  • Solar: 17 MW
  • Wind: 30MW, Consisting of 5 x 6MW Goldwind Turbines with a rotor Diameter of 165M, and a total height of 212M.
  • BESS: Battery Energy Storage System of 17MW/20 MWh
  • Synchronous condensers: 3 x 2.8MVAr Syncons.
  • ‘Engine Off’ enabled – the ability to operate on 100% renewable energy when conditions allow.

Renewable energy fraction

The goal is for approximately 80% of the project’s energy needs to be met by renewable energy.

Commercial operation date (COD)

The hybrid power plant was officially inaugurated on 9th October 2024 but has been operating since early 2024.

Contract term

Long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) 15 years.

Client’s decarbonisation objective

Liontown Resources aims to minimise its carbon footprint by using renewable energy in its mining operations.

Additional information

The Kathleen Valley Project, integrates a hybrid power solution that is the largest operating off-grid hybrid power system in Australia. It includes solar, wind, and battery energy storage alongside thermal generation. This solution supports Liontown Resources’ commitment to sustainability and its goal of reducing carbon emissions in line with Australia’s energy transition efforts.

Project name
Kathleen Valley
Location

Kathleen Valley, Western Australia, Australia

Client
Liontown Resources
Capacity
79 MW (Hybrid System: 27 MW Gas, 5 MW Diesel, 17 MW Solar, 30 MW Wind, 17 MW/20 MWh BESS)
Fuel source
BESS, Gas, Hybrid Renewable, Solar PV, Wind
CONTRACT

15-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)

COMMENCEMENT

Inaugurated on 9th October 2024, operational since early 2024

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Bellevue Gold

Bellevue Gold

The project includes 27 MW of solar, 24 MW of wind, and a 15 MW/33 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), enabling "Engine Off" operation. This setup allows the project to run entirely on renewable energy during favorable conditions, meeting approximately 80% of its energy needs through renewables.

Project Background

The Bellevue Gold Project is a large-scale gold mining operation in Western Australia, aiming to lead the sector in decarbonization. The project includes a hybrid power station that integrates renewable energy sources alongside traditional thermal generation to achieve significant reductions in carbon emissions.

Renewable Integration

The project includes 27 MW of solar, 24 MW of wind, and a 15 MW/33 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), enabling “Engine Off” operation. This setup allows the project to run entirely on renewable energy during favorable conditions, meeting approximately 80% of its energy needs through renewables.

How Zenith is Leading the Sector

Zenith Energy is setting the standard by constructing a 90 MW hybrid power station that combines solar, wind, and battery energy storage with thermal generation. Their innovative approach supports Bellevue’s goal of becoming Australia’s first carbon-neutral gold producer. The collaboration with Tjiwarl Contracting Services also highlights Zenith’s commitment to Indigenous engagement.

Installed capacity

  • Thermal: Gas – 15MW, Diesel 9MW, Total 24MW
  • LNG Storage and Regasification Facility
  • Solar: 27 MW
  • Wind: 24MW, Consisting of 4 x 6MW Goldwind Turbines with a rotor Diameter of 165M, and a total height of 212M.
  • BESS: Battery Energy Storage System of 15 MW/33 MWh
  • Synchronous condensers: 1 x 5MVAr Syncron.
  • ‘Engine Off’ enabled – the ability to operate on 100% renewable energy when conditions allow.

Renewable energy fraction

The goal is for approximately 80% of the project’s energy needs to be met by renewable energy.

Commercial operation date (COD)

May 2024.

Contract term

Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for an initial term of 15 years.

Client’s decarbonisation objective

To significantly reduce carbon emissions by primarily operating on renewable energy. Bellevue aims to become Australia’s first carbon-neutral gold producer by utilising high levels of renewable energy and synchronising milling activities with renewable energy availability.

Additional information

Zenith Energy and Bellevue Gold have partnered to establish an innovative 90 MW hybrid power station for the Bellevue Gold Project. The hybrid power station will consist of wind and solar generation, thermal generation, and battery storage, enabling the project to operate on 100% renewable energy during periods of high renewable generation. This partnership also advances the Tjiwarl Katu Power Joint Venture between Zenith Energy and Tjiwarl Contracting Services, which represents the Tjiwarl Aboriginal Corporation, the traditional owners of the land where the Bellevue Gold Project is located.

Project name
Bellevue Gold
Location

Western Australia, Australia

Client
Bellevue Gold
Capacity
90 MW hybrid power station that combines solar, wind, and battery energy storage with thermal generation.
Fuel source
BESS, Gas, Hybrid Renewable, Solar PV, Wind
CONTRACT

15-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)

COMMENCEMENT

Commercial operation date (COD) May 2024

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Jundee

Jundee

Northern Star Resources’ Jundee mine is an underground mining operation located in the Northern Goldfields region of Western Australia approximately 45 kms north-east of Wiluna and approximately 520 kms north of Kalgoorlie.

Project Background

Northern Star Resources’ Jundee mine is an underground mining operation located in the Northern Goldfields region of Western Australia approximately 45 kms north-east of Wiluna and approximately 520 kms north of Kalgoorlie.

Northern Star Resources is an ASX listed, global–scale Australian gold producer with world class projects within Australia and North America. The company owns and operates three world class gold production centres in Kalgoorlie, Yandal and Pogo (Jundee, 2022).

Zenith is providing 46.6MW of power generation through the use of natural gas fuelled generators.

Zenith commenced work on the power station in 2016.

Renewable Integration

The project incorporates 17 MW of solar, 24 MW of wind, and a 12 MW/12 MWh BESS. This hybrid system is expected to meet 56% of the project’s energy needs through renewable sources, significantly cutting emissions.

How Zenith is Leading the Sector

Zenith Energy’s renewable energy Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Northern Star Resources at Jundee supports the transition to a lower-carbon energy system. Zenith’s innovative renewable energy retrofit has positioned the company as a key player in reducing carbon intensity across the mining sector, further advancing their net-zero milestones.

Installed capacity

  • Thermal: 43 MW through high-efficiency gas generation and diesel
  • Solar:17 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: No Syncons Installed
  • Renewable energy fraction: The goal is for approximately 55% of the project’s energy needs to be met by renewable energy.

Commercial operation date (COD)

The Original Jundee power station began operations in 2016, with the first hybrid components commissioned in early 2024.

Contract term

Long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) under a Build, Own, operate (BOO) model, recently extended until 2039.

Client’s decarbonisation objective

Northern Star Resources aims to significantly reduce its carbon emissions by incorporating renewable energy sources into the Jundee mine operation. With the addition of wind, solar, and battery storage, the Jundee site will cover 56% of its energy needs with renewable sources. This aligns with Zenith Energy’s goal to reduce its carbon intensity by 20% by 2025, from a 2020 baseline, which includes scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.

Additional information

Zenith Energy has signed a renewable energy Power Purchase Agreement with Northern Star Resources for the Jundee operation. This PPA will support Zenith Energy’s interim net zero milestones and strengthen its relationship with Northern Star, with the renewable energy retrofit expected to significantly cut carbon emissions and increase the use of renewables at the mine.

PROJECT NAME
Jundee
LOCATION

Northern Goldfields, WA

CLIENT
NSR
CAPACITY
46.6 MW
ENERGY SOURCE
BESS, Diesel, Gas, Solar PV, Wind

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Peel

Peel

The Peel Microgrid is the first renewable industrial microgrid in Western Australia integrated across and servicing multiple green titled lots, and consists of 22kV embedded electricity distribution network, a connection to the South West Interconnected System grid and onsite renewable generation and battery storage assets.

Project Background

Peel Renewable Energy, a subsidiary of Zenith Energy, owns and operates the renewable electricity microgrid (Peel Microgrid). This supplies power to all customers at Nambeelup Kaadadjan, a large industrial and agri-business precinct located near Nambeelup, approximately 70km south of Perth and 7km north-west of the City of Mandurah, Western Australia.

The first stage of the 1,000 ha of Nambeelup Kaadadjan is being developed by Development WA’s Industrial Lands Authority and is a core element of the Western Australian State Government’s Transform Peel initiative.

Renewable Integration

The Peel Microgrid is the first renewable industrial microgrid in Western Australia integrated across and servicing multiple green titled lots, and consists of a 22kV embedded electricity distribution network, a connection to the South West Interconnected System grid and onsite renewable generation and battery storage assets.

Initially utilising a 1.2MW solar array and 2.5MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), the microgrid’s onsite generation is anticipated to grow towards 30MW solar and 58MWh BESS over approximately the next decade. The Peel Microgrid provides Nambeelup Kaadadjan’s tenants safe and reliable electricity at cost savings of up to 30 per cent on relevant regulated tariffs, whilst at the same time delivering a minimum 50% renewable energy content to all customers.

Project name
Peel
Location

Nambeelup, WA

Client
Nambeelup Kaadajan
Capacity
3.7 MW
Energy source
BESS, Solar PV

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Nova

Nova

The Nova Nickel Mine is located in the Fraser Range, 380 km from the Port of Esperance and was commenced in 2015

Project Background

The Nova Nickel Mine is located in the Fraser Range, 380 km from the Port of Esperance and was commenced in 2015

The operation is 100% owned by IGO, an ASX listed mining and exploration company that produces gold, nickel, and copper operations

Zeniths initial power generation solution at Nova was a 19MW diesel station which included:

  • 5 x 3MW Medium Speed Diesel Generating Sets
  • 3x 1.7 MW High Speed Diesel Generating Sets

Renewable Integration

In 2019 Zenith commissioned a 5.5MW PV solar power station to operate in parallel with the existing 19MW diesel fueled power station at Nova.

The solar power was designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing power station, using a control system designed to maximise the use of renewable energy while providing reliable and consistent power – a testament to the innovation and control systems capability of Zenith Energy’s engineers.

The system uses Zenith’s state-of-the-art cloud prediction and integration technology in order to predict cloud cover events. When large cloud coverage is predicted, the thermal generation is increased to offset the decrease in solar irradiation.

The numbers behind this system:

  • 11GWh per year in the first 3 years of operation
  • 3 million litres less diesel per year
  • 8,100 tonnes per year fewer CO2emissions per annum

How Zenith is Leading the Sector

Zenith and IGO are continuing their efforts to reduce emissions at the Nova operation by optimising the system to enable “Engine Off”.

This innovation will allow for diesel generation to be turned off and replaced with either stored or generated renewable capacity for significant periods during daylight hours. This is an industry first.

To achieve Engine Off, Zenith will install the following:

  • Additional 10.2MW of relocatable solar to enable renewable generation in excess of 100% of site demand
  • BESS system to provide smoothing during clouding events and capture additional solar spill where possible
  • Synchronous Condensers to provide grid forming and reactive support

Installed capacity

  • Thermal: 19 MW via diesel generation
  • Solar: 16 MW
  • BESS: Battery Energy Storage System of 12MW/12 MWh
  • Synchronous condensers: 2 x 2.8MVAr Syncron.
  • ‘Engine Off’ enabled – the ability to operate on 100% renewable energy when conditions allow.

Commercial operation date (COD)

The Original Nova power station began operations in 2015, with the first hybrid components commissioned in 2019.

Contract term

10 Years.

Client’s decarbonisation objective

IGO’s Nova Project aims to reduce its carbon emissions by maximising the use of renewable energy. The hybrid power plant, which enables 100% renewable operation during specific periods, is part of IGO’s broader commitment to sustainability and lowering its environmental impact. This hybrid solution allows the mine to minimise reliance on fossil fuels while enhancing operational efficiency through renewable integration.

“It’s an important next step on the journey to Net Zero. It will set a new industry benchmark in terms of renewable energy integration, and reduction of emissions at mine sites. It sends a message to the industry that powering an entire site 100% with renewables is possible today.”

IGO Chief Operating Officer, Matt Dusci

Project name
Nova
Location

Fraser Range, WA

Client
IGO
Capacity
35 MW
Energy source
BESS, Diesel, Solar PV

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King of The Hills

King of The Hills

The King of the Hills underground gold mine is 100% owned by Red 5 and is located 28km north of the town of Leonora in the Eastern Goldfields region of Western Australia.

Project Background

The King of the Hills underground gold mine is 100% owned by Red 5 Limited and is located 28km north of the town of Leonora in the Eastern Goldfields region of Western Australia.

Red 5 Limited is an ASX listed gold producer who also operates the Darlot Gold Mine, located 80km south of King of the Hills.

Zenith Energy is providing a power solution which will use a combination of gas sets, solar PV, and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to generate a capacity of 30MW.

The power supply to the site commenced in March 2022 with an initial term of 10 years.

Renewable Integration

The King of The Hills site will integrate renewable technology and will be the first to use the modular 5B Maverick solar solution, a big step in Zenith Energy’s objective to create a fleet of relocatable renewables.

The station is also designed to allow for further integration of additional renewable generation for future operations and expansions.

“We are pleased to have signed the Power Purchase Agreement with Zenith Energy, an experienced power producer which provided us with a compelling hybrid thermal and sustainable power solution that includes renewable energy. “Zenith Energy’s combination of a gas and so lar power station, supported by a Battery Energy Storage System, provides the efficiency and stability required for the processing plant and infrastructure to enable King of the Hills to be a long – life, low-cost gold produce”

Red 5 Limited Managing Director, Mark Williams

Project name
King of The Hills
Location

Eastern Goldfields, WA

Client
Red 5
Capacity
31 MW
Energy source
BESS, Gas, Solar PV

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Warrawoona

Warrawoona

Calidus Resources is an ASX listed gold company that is developing the 1.5Moz Warrawoona Gold Project in the East Pilbara district of Western Australia.

Project Background

Calidus Resources is an ASX listed gold company that is developing the 1.5Moz Warrawoona Gold Project in the East Pilbara district of Western Australia.

The Zenith Energy solution for this project was the construction of a 19MW power station, with primary power provided by a 10MW gas station with full diesel redundancy.

Power station comprises;

  • LNG Storage Facility
  • 8 x KTA50s, each with a capacity of 1.02MW
  • 4 x Jenbacher 616 each with a capacity of 2.68MW

Renewable Integration

After finalising the PPA, Zenith Energy was engaged by Calidus Resources to assess the viability of deploying a solar solution to offset emissions

The renewable solution that Zenith Energy developed included the installation of a:

  • 4MW DC Solar Farm and,
  • A 3MW/3MWh AC Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)

The solar farm will utilise modular technology, adding to Zenith Energy’s fleet of relocatable renewables.

The hybrid power station configuration will result in a reduction in gas use, which in turn results in a reduction in emissions, around 13 percent less than the initially contracted gas only station.

“Calidus is committed to carbon reduction as part of its ESG policy. This renewable micro grid is a cornerstone to our carbon reduction plan which includes the use of LNG not diesel and the ability of the LNG gensets to use up to 25% hydrogen. We are pleased to extend the relationship with Zenith to incorporate this renewables project, and look forward to its construction in the second half of this year”

Calidus Managing Director, Dave Reeves

Project Updates

PROJECT NAME
Warrawoona
LOCATION

East Pilbara, WA

CLIENT
Calidus
CAPACITY
23 MW
ENERGY SOURCE
BESS, Gas, Solar PV

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Ocean Reef Marina

Ocean Reef Marina

Zenith Energy is engaged to deliver a renewable energy system for Ocean Reef Marina, designed to meet the energy needs of this coastal, mixed-use development, combining residential, retail, and marina facilities.

Project Background

Ocean Reef Renewable Energy (ORRE) is the owner and operator of the microgrid that will service the Ocean Reef Marina (ORM) Microgrid, a mixed-use marina being developed by DevelopmentWA. ORM, at full planned development, will include 1,000 residential homes and over 18,000m² of retail and commercial space, with a planned energy supply of over 9,000 MWh per annum.

Energy Source

The ORM Microgrid will incorporate embedded solar generation and battery storage.

How Zenith is Leading the Sector

Zenith Energy, through ORRE, is implementing an innovative microgrid solution to support sustainable energy for mixed-use developments.

Installed Capacity

Expected to include a 4MVA grid connection, with 1.75MW of rooftop and ground-mounted solar arrays and a 4.6MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).

Commercial Operation Date (COD)

Network handover anticipated in 2024.

Contract Term

Long-term operation of the microgrid to support ongoing development and energy needs.

Client’s Decarbonisation Objective

DevelopmentWA aims to create a sustainable, low-carbon footprint for Ocean Reef Marina, facilitating the integration of renewable energy for residential and commercial spaces.

Additional Information

ORRE holds an Electricity Retail Licence (ERL009) and an Electricity Distribution Licence (EDL032), ensuring reliable energy distribution within the ORM development.

Project name
Ocean Reef Marina
Location

Ocean Reef, Western Australia.

Client
Development WA
Capacity
>9,000 MWh annually
Fuel source
BESS, Hybrid Renewable, Solar PV
CONTRACT

ORRE holds licenses including the Electricity Retail License (ERL009) and Electricity Distribution License (EDL032).

COMMENCEMENT

2024

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Eglinton Village Energy

Eglinton Village Energy

Zenith Energy is providing a renewable energy solution for the Eglinton Village development, supporting sustainable energy needs in a growing residential and commercial community in Western Australia.

Project Background

Eglinton Village Energy (EVE) is the owner and operator of the microgrid for the Eglinton Village Microgrid, a residential estate developed by Cedar Woods Properties. At full development, Eglinton Village will comprise around 1,300 residential homes, a community centre, and a school, with a total energy supply of approximately 11,000 MWh per annum.

Energy Source

The microgrid will leverage solar power with battery storage.

How Zenith is Leading the Sector

Zenith Energy, through EVE, is advancing renewable energy solutions for residential developments, creating a sustainable energy infrastructure for communities.

Installed Capacity

Forecast to include 4.4MW of rooftop solar arrays and a 6MWh BESS.

Commercial Operation Date (COD)

First residential loads expected in 2024.

Contract Term

Long-term project designed to meet the growing energy needs of Eglinton Village.

Client’s Decarbonisation Objective

Cedar Woods aims to support sustainable living with renewable-powered infrastructure to meet residential and community energy demands.

Additional Information

EVE holds an Electricity Retail Licence (ERL010) and an Electricity Distribution Licence (EDL033), ensuring sustainable and reliable energy delivery for the Eglinton Village development.

Project name
Eglinton Village Energy
Location

Eglinton, Western Australia.

Client
Cedar Woods
Capacity
Forecast to include 4.4MW of rooftop solar arrays and a 6MWh BESS.
Fuel source
Batteries, Hybrid Renewable, Solar PV
CONTRACT

Long-term.

COMMENCEMENT

Initial contract signed in 2023