The RayGen Power Plant Carwarp is a ground-breaking dispatchable renewable electricity project that provides reliable, on-demand power to the distribution network in Victoria.
It comprises 4MW solar and 2.8MW/50MWh storage. Four solar towers each generate 1MW of electricity and 2MW of heat, and two 17,000m3 water pits store enough thermal energy to drive a 2.8MW ORC turbine for 17 hours (50MWh). The project saves 10,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually and provides low-cost renewable electricity day and night to approximately 1,000 homes.
As part of the grid connection process for the project, RayGen was required to complete a collection of static and dynamic power systems modelling. This process proved challenging due to the project’s location within the West Murray Zone as well as consideration of an innovative control methodology. RayGen engaged Middleton Group for specialist assistance to guide it through the process.
Middleton Group undertook static studies in PSSE, as well as multiple dynamic modelling activities including, but not limited to:
- PSSE dynamic model and RUG development;
- Model acceptance tests;
- PSCAD dynamic model and RUG development; and
- Benchmarking tests.
Middleton Group also provided guidance throughout the grid connection process.
The grid connection services provided by Middleton Group enabled RayGen to progress its grid connection application as well as gain valuable insights into the multiple operational scenarios: synchronous generator only, solar inverter only and combined generation output.
The project achieved the status of ‘commissioning complete’ – the final project-related milestone with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) – in July 2023.
