Nine Mile Beach wind farm

Grid connected, distributed generation, renewable
Location: Nine Mile Beach, WA

The site

The site is adjacent to Western Power's existing wind farm at Ten Mile Lagoon and was chosen for the abundant wind energy resource, existing grid connection infrastructure and proximity to Esperance. The wind farm is initially displacing diesel fuel generation in Esperance. After February 2004 the plant will offset gas-fired generation in the town.

"Flowing from Western Power's wind energy program has been the development of the wind-diesel technology which broadens the scope for wind applications in remote or regional locations with smaller diesel or gas fi red power stations."
Western Australian Energy Minister, the Hon Eric Ripper MLA

Technology

The control system equipment that enables integration with the existing diesel and new gas power stations was delivered by Powercorp of the Northern Territory. This control technology maximises the wind input while maintaining power quality with integration into fossil-fuelled power stations. Enercon variable-speed, direct drive wind turbines operate between 18 and 34.5 rpm at an optimal wind speed of 13.5 m/s. The rotors cut out at 35 m/s. The wind farm is distribution connected at 33 kV with a dedicated Western Power feeder to the power station in Esperance.

Energy purchase and supply

The plant is expected to produce 9.5 GWh of electricity per annum. Power generated from the project is currently sold to Western Power Regional for the requirements of the Esperance town. From February 2004 power will be sold to Esperance Power Station under a long-term wind power purchase agreement. The generator is an accredited generator under the Mandatory Renewable Energy Target (MRET) Scheme and is eligible for Renewable Energy Certificates. The project is expected to save 7500 tonnes per annum of greenhouse gas emissions.

Future outlook

Other projects have been identified for Hopetoun and Bremer Bay. The integrated wind technology could also be used around the world on similar diesel-based grids.

Funding arrangements and acknowledgements

50 per cent funding for the project was from the Australian Greenhouse Office's Renewable Remote Power Generation Program (RRPGP) administered through Western Australia's Sustainable Energy Development Office.