Siemens is delivering a significant contract worth more than AUD $5 million to supply a turnkey solution including a 66 kV switchyard and 11 kV indoor substation for the Moolarben Coal Project, jointly owned by Felix Resources, Sojitz Moolarben Resources and Kores Australia Moolarben Coal.
In partnership with Country Energy, the region’s electrical distributor, and PowerServe, the project’s civil works partner, the project includes design, procurement, supply, transport, site off-loading, site civil and structural works, installation, erection, site testing, commissioning, documentation and operator training.
Siemens won the project based on the scope of works offered in the two-phase proposal, including a network/load flow analysis and concept design, as well as the turnkey solution that provides one complete solution delivered by Siemens. A period contract with Country Energy for the supply of all 66 kV circuit breakers also positioned Siemens as the successful partner, in recognition of our in-depth knowledge of Country Energy’s specific electrical requirements and previous record of achievement in delivering on the customer’s needs.
Mr Brian Flannery, Managing Director, Felix Resources, said the open-cut and underground mines at Moolarben are expected to produce up to 13 Mtpa of saleable export and domestic thermal coal once in full production.
“We are expecting our first coal to be shipped in March 2010 through the new Newcastle Coal terminal and estimate the lifespan of the mine will be more than 20 years.
“We are confident the Siemens turnkey solution for Moolarben will ensure delivery of a permanent high voltage power supply substation for the safe and efficient provision, switching and distribution of electrical energy at the site.”
Siemens track record of delivery and innovation in the energy transmission and distribution industry was integral to achieving and delivering on the Moolarben Coal project, according to Mr. Steve Robinson, Siemens Vice President of Energy Transmission and Distribution. “Our experienced team, quality technologies and our synergistic relationships with our turnkey partners bring the necessary skills and knowledge required for such a complex project,” he said.
“The efficient and sustainable supply of energy underpins our energy portfolio. From gas, steam and wind turbines to low nitrous oxide burners and high and medium voltage applications, we have an energy solution for the sustainable generation, transmission and distribution of power.”
The Moolarben Coal Project is situated in the New South Wales Coalfields, 30 kilometres north of Mudgee. The Siemens work is expected to be completed in December 2009.