A 165-tonne transformer has been delivered to the 100MW Lilyvale Solar Farm in Queensland’s Central Highlands.
The transformer will increase the voltage of electricity generated by the solar farm to enable it to be efficiently transported long distances across Powerlink’s transmission network.
Powerlink Chief Executive, Merryn York, said the delivery of the transformer marks an important step in connecting one of Central Queensland’s largest solar farms to the electricity grid.
“Lilyvale Solar Farm will generate enough electricity to power approximately 45,000 Queensland homes and create up to 200 construction jobs for the region,” Ms York said.
“The delivery of the transformer provided an opportunity to showcase an innovative approach to delivering the massive piece of equipment onto site.
“An innovative ‘self-propelled’ or remote control trailer was used to manoeuvre the 165 tonne transformer into place.
“This helped overcome substation access restrictions which prevented a standard transformer delivery truck from being used in this instance.
“The transformer is an integral piece of equipment to connect the Lilyvale Solar Farm to the electricity network via a short transmission line to the new substation.
“Powerlink is excited to be helping the growth of renewable energy, with more than half of all renewables connections activity across the National Electricity Market happening in Queensland.”
Powerlink currently has 13 committed projects representing 1,600MW of renewable generation.
