WA tops nation in standalone power systems

Western Australia is leading the nation in the use of standalone power systems, 100 of which are now deployed across the state’s main electricity grid, the South West Interconnected System.

This innovative green solution provides improved power reliability and quality for regional and remote customers, and is said to be a safer alternative to traditional poles and wires.

Standalone power systems (SAPS or SPS) are particularly beneficial for regional customers, where supply costs are high and power reliability is impacted by distance, terrain and severe weather events. Delivering cleaner and more reliable power, the units are powered by solar panels and battery storage, and include backup diesel generation.

SAPS are now located in numerous locations throughout the Mid West, Wheatbelt and Great Southern regions. The latest was installed following the Shackleton bushfire early this year.

The WA Government plans to roll out a further 4000 standalone power systems across the state in the next 10 years.

A recent Western Power customer research report found high levels of satisfaction with SAPS. Participating customers rated their overall satisfaction at 8.2 out of 10 (10 being ‘excellent’); in contrast, their satisfaction with poles and wires connection pre-SAPS was lower at 6.7 out of 10. Energy Minister Bill Johnston said, “Western Power’s survey is a great outcome, with more than 75% of customers saying they were likely to recommend standalone power systems to others.

“The research also indicated renewable energy being important to rural customers, with a third of participating customers already using solar and believing it was the way of the future.

“There are 90 SPS currently being deployed by four WA suppliers, which is creating a new industry and jobs for locals, and replacing around 330 km of overhead lines.”

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Jana Schönknecht