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Reliable Off-Grid Energy Storage for a Remote Renewables Research Site in the Pilbara

Overview
In the remote Pilbara region of Western Australia, a renewables research project required a resilient, containerised off-grid power solution capable of operating reliably in one of the country’s most challenging environments. To meet these demands, a PowerPlus-backed solar and battery energy storage system was deployed across two SolaCon containerised units: an office hub and a separate bathroom block, providing dependable, low-maintenance power far from existing infrastructure. The system was installed and commissioned by Kieren of Coastal Electrical, with PowerPlus Energy batteries chosen as the core energy storage solution to ensure reliability, consistent performance, and long-term resilience.

The Challenge
The site is located south of Newman, close to Capricorn and is only accessible only via a 2.5-hour remote dirt track. With no grid connection and limited access for maintenance or repairs, the project required an energy system capable of operating fully off-grid, withstanding extreme heat, dust, and cyclone-rated wind conditions, and delivering reliable power for personnel, equipment, and amenities. The system also needed to minimise diesel generator dependence and perform consistently with minimal intervention. Any downtime would result in significant logistical and operational challenges, making reliability an absolute necessity.

Why PowerPlus

PowerPlus Energy’s LiFe4838P batteries were selected as the foundation of the system for their proven performance in remote and industrial environments, Australian design and support, compatibility with advanced inverter and monitoring systems, and ability to deliver consistent daily cycling under sustained loads. Kieren noted that his prior experience with PowerPlus systems on a similarly demanding site reinforced confidence in the choice, stating, “It’s been holding up and working well, that’s why we went back to PowerPlus.”

The Solution

The primary office hub, housed in a SolaCon 20ft container, functions as a workspace, control room, and refuge from extreme temperatures, powered by a high-capacity solar and battery system centered around PowerPlus energy storage. The power system includes eight PowerPlus Energy Life4838P batteries installed in a PEF9W battery cabinet. To support continuous on-site operations, a separate SolaCon 20ft container serves as a self-contained bathroom block, powered by a dedicated solar system. This facility features an integrated tank beneath the container floor, separate process water and water tanks of approximately 1,300 litres each, and a four-pan configuration with shower facilities.

Installation & Commissioning

Most of the system assembly and pre-wiring were completed off-site, significantly reducing the time required for on-site installation. As a result, on-site installation and commissioning were completed in approximately two days. The overall project duration was around 12 months, including design development and scope adjustments. This approach ensured that the PowerPlus battery systems were installed, commissioned, and brought online efficiently, even in a highly remote location.

The PowerPlus-backed system has delivered consistent and reliable performance, providing certainty and an energy solution capable of thriving in extreme Australian conditions

Outcomes & Results

Since commissioning in September, the PowerPlus-backed system has delivered consistent and reliable performance, providing certainty and an energy solution capable of thriving in extreme Australian conditions. The batteries reach 100% state of charge daily, with generator operation limited to scheduled maintenance cycling. No system faults or downtime have been reported, and stable operation is verified through remote monitoring. The system supports 8–9 personnel full-time, with capacity for additional users. Installer feedback confirmed the results, stating, “It was hitting 100% state of charge every day.”

This project demonstrated how PowerPlus Energy battery systems deliver reliable, high-performance energy storage for off-grid, remote, and industrial applications. By anchoring the system around PowerPlus batteries, the site benefited from reduced diesel consumption and improved operational efficiency.

This case study highlights how PowerPlus Energy can serve as the backbone of remote energy solutions. From supporting mining operations and renewable energy research to powering remote workforce accommodations, PowerPlus consistently delivers dependable battery storage. By combining reliability, performance, and resilience, the system ensures that critical energy needs are met even in the most challenging and remote environments.

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