Works begin on solar and battery microgrid to power island national park

Construction has begun on a more than $12 million project to install a solar and battery energy storage-based microgrid on Tasmania’s Maria Island, slashing its use of diesel fuelled power.

Tasmania’s minister for parks, Roger Jaensch, said local Tasmanian firm Contract Electrical had been tapped to design and deliver the microgrid, including a 55kW solar array and a 215kWh BESS.

The battery energy storage system is expected to provide a minimum of two days solar and battery-powered autonomy for the World Heritage-listed island, located off Tasmania’s east coast.

“The project will not only deliver a sustainable energy supply, but importantly reduce demand on diesel power generation and provide greater renewable energy capacity for the Darlington precinct,” Jaensch said.

“The [microgrid] will assist in protecting Maria Island’s natural and cultural values, while enhancing the visitor experience.”

The project is expected to be completed within a month, with no impact to visitors and ferry operations during this time – a barge contractor will move heavy machinery and equipment to and from the Island while the construction takes place.

The final stage of the $12.63 million project will see the delivery of critical infrastructure upgrades, including new wastewater treatment, improved rainwater capture and storage.