University students from across Victoria have had the chance to see what working on one of the world’s biggest batteries looks like at a recent visit to the SEC’s Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub (MREH) as an introduction to renewable energy careers.
The Engineers Australia student ambassadors were given a behind-the-scenes tour to see what renewable energy careers can offer.
The tour enables them to see the project’s 444 battery units and massive 335t transformers up close. The units form a 600MW battery energy storage system, which will enhance Victoria’s electricity network by storing excess rooftop solar energy and release it during times of high demand.
When the MREH comes online in late 2025, it will have the capacity to power around 200,000 homes during peak times.
The students had the opportunity to hear from some of the MREH’s onsite engineers on how they got into the industry and ask questions about what it’s like working on one of the world’s biggest batteries.
SEC CEO, Chris Miller, said people are at the heart of the energy transition, which is why SEC is focused on creating exciting opportunities for students to experience renewable energy up close and learn about the vibrant career paths the sector has to offer.
“Through visits like this, the SEC can give students a greater understanding of the wide variety of roles required in the growing renewables sector and inspire them to make a real impact on Victoria’s renewable energy transition,” he said.
University of Melbourne engineering student Selini Samaranayake said the visit was eye-opening and helped her decide that energy is the way to go.
“A lot of young students, particularly female, are not exposed to experiences like this when they start out. It opens doors and opportunities,” Ms Samaranayake said.
Another student told the SEC that thanks to the visit, they had decided to change career paths and pursue a future in renewable energy.
The student visit to the MREH will be one of many as the SEC seeks to engage more student about within renewable energy careers.
Since construction on the project began in late 2023, more than 1106 people have worked across all aspects of the project, including 71 apprentices, trainees and cadets.
