ZEN Energy, in partnership with SIMEC Energy, will construct the state's largest solar farm and grid scale battery in the Upper Spencer Gulf region. The project consists of the 280 megawatt (MW) Cultana Solar Farm near Whyalla and the 100 MW Playford Big Battery near Port Augusta.
The Playford Big Battery will provide Frequency Control Ancillary Services and Fast Frequency Response to the National Electricity Market. Energy generated from the Cultana Solar Farm will contribute to the national electricity grid via the existing Cultana and Whyalla substations.
Key Dates
| Dec 2023 | Construction Commencement |
| Dec 2025 | Expected Cultana Solar Farm Completion |
| Dec 2026 | Expected Playford Big Battery Completion |
Financing
| Equity Finance: | GFG Alliance |
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The project is being financed by the GFG Alliance, of which SIMEC Energy Australia is a member. |
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Procurement
| Procuring Agency: | SIMEC Energy will procure both the Playford Big Battery and Cultana Solar Farm separately under two Engineer, Procure and Construction contracts. |
| Successful Tenderer: | Shanghai Electrics have been selected to deliver the Cultana Solar Farm under an Engineer, Procure and Construction contract. |
PROJECT HISTORY
| May 2019 | The Cultana Solar Farm received development approval. |
| Aug 2019 | The Playford Big Battery received development approval. |
| Nov 2020 | The SA Government announced a 10-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with ZEN Energy to provide the SA Government with electricity from the solar farm and battery. |
Estimated Total Cost
(2020)
Sector
Energy
Procurement approach
Unconfirmed |
Location
South Australia |
Infrastructure Australia status
Not considered
Resources
