The NWQHPP is a world-first integrated 50MW solar hybrid baseload power plant. The project combines Vast Solar’s modular tower concentrating solar thermal power (CSP) technology with photovoltaic (PV), battery and gas engine generators to deliver low cost, reliable, clean energy to the Mount Isa region. When completed, the NWQHPP will be the largest hybrid generator and the first utility scale CSP plant built in Australia.
Mount Isa enjoys favourable solar conditions that make it an ideal location for a solar hybrid power plant. Located 10km west of Mount Isa, the NWQHPP power plant will be linked to the North West Power System by a new 220kV high voltage transmission line.
The plant will comprise:
- Vast Solar’s modular tower CSP technology linked to a 56MW steam turbine via a 14.5 hour molten salt thermal storage system
- 80MW PV with single axis tracking
- An integrated 52MW / 15MWh battery energy storage system
- 57MW of gas-powered reciprocating engines