A group of high school students from Melbourne’s north west have been able to peek behind the curtain at a career in the renewables sector at a recent tour of the State Electricity Commission’s (SEC) Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub (MREH).
The year 10 students from Jackson School in St Albans toured the hub, home to one of the world’s biggest batteries, located in Plumpton.
The MREH is co-owned by the SEC and renewable energy investor and developer, Equis Australia.
During the visit, students explored the 600MW battery energy storage system – comprising 444 battery units – along with the project’s three massive 335t transformers. Once operational in late 2025, the project will store excess rooftop solar energy and release it during times of high demand, with the capacity to power up to 200,000 homes during peak periods.
Students also had the opportunity to hear from engineers and technical specialists working on the project, learning about their career journeys and what it’s like to work on one of the world’s biggest batteries.
SEC Chief Executive Officer, Chris Miller, said, “People are the driving force behind the energy transition, which is why the SEC is focused on providing educational opportunities for students to gain an insight into the many and varied careers available in the renewable energy sector.
“These opportunities give students a greater understanding of the renewable energy market and spark curiosity to inspire the next generation to play a meaningful role in Victoria’s renewable energy transition.”
Equis echoed the importance of early engagement and education.
Equis Delivery Director, Johan Mouton, said, “We’re proud to work alongside the SEC to open the doors of the Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub to students.”
“It’s vital we show the next generation how exciting and impactful a career in renewable energy can be.”
The visit was supported by Future Connect, which creates education, training and employment pathways for young people in Melbourne’s northwest.
The Jackson School visit to the Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub follows a tour in March by Engineers Australia student ambassadors who learnt about career opportunities in renewable energy.
The SEC said more tours are planned in the future as the SEC and Equis engage with more students about career opportunities in the renewable energy sector.