Northern Goldfields 66kV Solar Project

Overview

The Northern Goldfields Solar Hybrid Power Project in Western Australia integrates 38 MW of solar capacity and 10 MW of battery storage to provide renewable energy for BHP Nickel West, one of the world's largest nickel mines. Developed by JUWI for TransAlta, this project replaces diesel and gas-powered generation, cutting 54,000 tons of CO₂ emissions annually. Insulect contributed critical high-voltage infrastructure, supplying the 66kV LTCB, Current Transformers, Capacitive Voltage Transformer, and Disconnector, ensuring reliable energy transmission within the hybrid power system.

Challenge

Powering a remote mining operation is never simple. Traditionally, sites like this rely on diesel or gas, but moving to a hybrid solar and battery system introduces new complexity.

The system needs to manage variable solar generation, store energy, and deliver consistent power to the mine. All while maintaining stability. At the same time, the high-voltage network must allow safe switching, accurate measurement, and fast fault response in a remote and demanding environment.

Solution

Insulect supplied a complete set of 66kV high-voltage components designed to work together within the hybrid system.

This included a disconnector for safe isolation, a live tank circuit breaker (LTCB) for fast fault protection, current transformers for accurate measurement, and a capacitive voltage transformer (CVT) for voltage monitoring and control.

Together, these components help manage and protect the flow of electricity between the solar plant, battery system, and mining operations.

Benefits

With Insulect’s equipment in place, the project benefits from a safer, more controlled, and more reliable electrical system.

Operators can isolate sections of the network when needed, improving safety during maintenance. The protection and monitoring equipment helps maintain stable performance, even as solar output changes throughout the day.

The system also reduces reliance on fossil fuels, supporting lower emissions and more sustainable operations.

Results

Today, the Northern Goldfields Solar Hybrid Power Project is delivering cleaner, more reliable energy to BHP Nickel West.

It reduces carbon emissions by around 54,000 tonnes each year while maintaining the consistent power needed for mining operations.

Insulect’s high-voltage equipment helps ensure the system runs safely, efficiently, and reliably in one of Australia’s most remote environments.