100 kW rooftop PV system for ABB site

ABB has installed a 100 kW rooftop photovoltaic (PV) power system at its Moorebank site in NSW. This is the second ABB site to install a rooftop PV system.

The 400 module photovoltaic installation was commissioned in November and will contribute 6% of Moorebank’s daily energy usage - a site that covers more than 27,000 m² of office and factory space and accommodates over 500 employees. ABB worked collaboratively with supplier Kyocera and system installer Autonomous Energy on the installation.

“Solar is no longer just an alternative but a real energy choice,” said Axel Kuhr, ABB Australia’s country manager. “PV is becoming more competitive with mainstream energy sources as overall system prices decline. We selected Kyocera solar modules for this project due to their proven reliability and lifetime operating standards.”

The PV system at ABB’s Moorebank site.

To raise the efficiency of the system, ABB installed its high-performance PVS800 100 kW central inverter. This inverter converts the direct current (DC) generated by solar modules into high-quality and CO₂-free alternating current (AC) that can be fed into the distribution network. The optimised system control and a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm maximise energy and feed-in revenues.

Suitable for large-scale photovoltaic power plants, the inverters are available from 100 to 1000 kW, with a range of communications options available including remote monitoring.

Kyocera met ABB’s requirements for high-quality and long-lasting components. ABB was responsible for the overall contract, as well as the project management and completion of the works. The 100 kW photovoltaic system is expected to harness approximately 121,804 kWh of clean energy annually.

“Kyocera was delighted to contribute to ABB’s Moorebank solar installation,” said George Phani, national manager for Kyocera Solar.

“It is great to see large commercial businesses switching to solar, not only for the energy savings, but also the environmental benefits.”