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Western Power, Australia

Smart grid technology supports renewable energy

Discover how Western Power uses Siemens SINAMICS S120 STATCOM technology to improve grid stability in Kalgoorlie–Boulder, Western Australia, and support the integration of renewable energy sources.

Stability for today, future-proofed for tomorrow

Siemens has delivered two 8MVAr STATCOMs to Western Power at their West Kalgoorlie - Boulder substation to provide grid stability and connect renewable energy projects to the grid.

Watch the video to discover how Western Power, the electricity network operator in the Eastern Goldfields region of Western Australia, sought a solution to ensure grid stability and support renewable energy projects in the city of Kalgoorlie–Boulder.
Stability has never been more critical to the electrical grid, especially as more renewable energy projects are brought online each year. With unique challenges existing in different environments, tailored solutions are required to integrate these new energy sources with existing operations.

Kalgoorlie–Boulder is located some 650 kilometres (404 mi) north-east of its power generation source at Muja, with the network supplying power to large mining operations that draw heavy loads for extended periods of time. Environmental factors are also a key consideration: the region's semi-arid climate sees average monthly temperatures as high as 34°C (93°F).

The Siemens SINAMICS S120 STATCOMs installed at the West Kalgoorlie–Boulder substation are future-ready, and can reliably bridge the divide between traditional grid systems and renewable energy: including wind power, battery and hydrogen. The units are self-contained and liquid-cooled, keeping cool in high temperatures and allow for easy maintance.

Western Power - West Kalgoorlie-Boulder Substation

Siemens' solution also includes a digital twin of the Western Power grid network, allowing technicians to create a virtual replica of the network that provides real-time, visual fault-detection. Plus, with up to seven different applications built in, the SINAMICS S120 units can be customised to work with existing workflows.