Determining energy options in the remote South Middleback Ranges
As a key stakeholder in the Whyalla region, SIMEC Mining wanted to provide energy security and price relief for their mining and steel manufacturing operations. Approaching the end of its economic life, their Iron Duchess North mine in the South Middleback Ranges had an interesting opportunity. Transform the site into a pumped hydro energy storage facility.
Supported by funding from the South Australian Renewable Technology Fund and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency, we helped deliver a prefeasibility study for the concept using the Iron Duchess North mine pit as the lower storage reservoir of the pumped hydro facility. By constructing the upper reservoir on a platform formed by waste rock spoil in the valley, the team was able to harness a gross head ranging between 150 and 200 metres (490 and 655 feet).
Unlike other pumped storage facilities proposed at decommissioned mine sites or disused quarries, the Iron Duchess North pit was still an operational site. A crucial challenge was integrating the hydropower planning with the mine plan—capturing synergies and maximising benefits to both projects, while achieving the earliest pumped storage commissioning date.
Initial studies were guided by external transmission constraints and the size of the project was limited to 110 megawatts. With the resolution of these constraints, our findings showed a larger 300-megawatt scheme may be a viable option.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
-
- SIMEC Mining
Mark Cordell, Market Leader—Dams and Hydropower, Australia
I get satisfaction at work by making sure our solutions are not only technically sound and cost effective but also ‘best for project’.
Tom Kirk, Principal Hydro Mechanical Engineer
We will continue to advance the hydropower industry by truly understanding our clients’ needs while performing expanded, value-added services.
We’re better together
-
Become a client
Partner with us today to change how tomorrow looks. You’re exactly what’s needed to help us make it happen in your community.
-
Design your career
Work with passionate people who are experts in their field. Our teams love what they do and are driven by how their work makes an impact on the communities they serve.