Infrastructure

Yadlamalka Energy Solar Farm

Yadlamalka Energy Solar Farm featured image
  • Client
    Yadlamalka Energy Pty Ltd
  • Role
    Client-Side Project Manager
  • Partners
    Yadlamalka Energy Pty Ltd
    Next Generation Electrical (NGE)
    Invinity Energy Systems
    AZZO
    Habitat Energy
  • Value
    $21m

About the Project

Solar farm development incorporating a solar photovoltaic (PV) system and dc-coupled vanadium flow battery (VFB) storage.

BACKGROUND

The Yadlamalka Energy Storage Project aimed to create a large-scale solar farm and battery storage. Yadlamalka Land Pty Ltd engaged SwitchCo, through Birdwood Energy, for project management and owner’s engineering roles. This included detailed planning, procurement management, grid connection, and overseeing project execution and completion, all adhering to SAPN and ARENA standards. SwitchCo coordinated extensive engineering works, ensuring compliance with technical and commercial requirements, and maintaining efficient project communication and administration.

CHALLENGES

SwitchCo faced significant challenges, including managing stakeholders across time zones and implementing new battery technology, alongside regulatory compliance and grid integration issues typical of large-scale solar and battery projects in Australia. Despite these hurdles, SwitchCo effectively coordinated all parties, ensuring project control and progress, showcasing their expertise in handling large-scale, technologically advanced renewable energy projects.

OUTCOMES

SwitchCo demonstrated its value in the Yadlamalka Energy Storage Project by adeptly managing the introduction of new battery technology. The company’s strategic approach in securing key contracts and aligning with ARENA’s objectives showcased its role in enhancing renewable energy. This successful implementation of novel technology not only met the National Electricity Market’s needs but also set a precedent for future renewable energy projects, exemplifying SwitchCo’s expertise and innovation in project management.

Testimonial

"We sought a competitive quote for project management, and SwitchCo not only met but exceeded our expectations, making our decision to choose them an easy one. Key factors in our decision included their exceptional industry expertise—vital for pioneering new methods in Australia—strong connections with major energy sector contractors, competitive pricing, and a commitment to meeting deadlines while saving costs.”
— Andrew Doman, Yadlamalka Energy