Whangamatā BESS (Battery Energy Storage System)
Location: Whangamatā
Project partners: Powerco
Our challenge
Northpower was heavily involved in the construction and delivery of Powerco’s Whangamatā Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) installation project, which has enhanced the reliability and resilience of the electricity supply for Whangamatā homes, businesses, and the wider community. This project involved the installation of a BESS system within the existing 33/11kV substation, along with integration with the existing electricity network and 2MW diesel generators.
Scope of work
- Onsite enabling works at the Whangamatā substation
- Civil and construction works such as pads, enclosures, and fencing
- Installation of the BESS system
- Integration of the new BESS system with the existing 33/11kV substation
- Integration of the complete system with the 2MW diesel generators.
Project collaboration
The project required collaboration from a large team of electrical fitters, cable jointers, test technicians, and overhead line staff from Northpower, along with subcontractors for civil works, drainage, concrete pads, fencing, and fabrication of stainless-steel diesel pipes and pumps.
We utilised staff from across our business for the project, which involved coordination of people and shared tasks, including line work and installation of over 500 batteries.
Stringent health and safety procedures were implemented to ensure the safe delivery of the project, especially given the involvement of new technology and work within a live substation. Extreme care was taken with existing underground services and live HV cables. Planning ensured a safe working environment, including the installation of new 11kV cables and relocation of poles and lines without incidents.
Seamless integration
Extensive commissioning documentation was also developed to ensure continuity of supply and seamless integration into the existing electrical network.
Our teams worked closely with PLP, the head contractor to Powerco, to successfully manage critical ‘on-time delivery’ for sections of work relating to the BESS system. The overhead line relocation enabling work and diesel generator portion of work was completed by Northpower directly for Powerco.
Project delivery
The project was delivered on time and within budget, showcasing Northpower’s expertise in managing complex installations and our commitment to ensuring the reliability and safety of our customer’s electricity network.
The completed project has delivered a more reliable and resilient electricity supply for Whangamatā homes, businesses, and the wider community.