Beca's design for the expansion of SP AusNet's 220kV switchyard at South Morang Terminal Station aims to relieve the heavy loads on adjacent substations and allow for future population growth in the region north of Melbourne.
With increased population pressures in the area north of Melbourne, South Morang Terminal Station's 220kV switchyard required extensive expansion to ease existing constraints and accommodate future growth in the region.
Beca, working alongside SP AusNet, provided the detailed design for the 220kV switchyard extension, 220/66kV transformers and a new 66kV switchyard, from which eight new feeders would supply the new substations in the area. Beca also assisted through design of the new drainage surface, stormwater system and oil containment system as well as design of protection and control panels and AC supplies for the switchyard equipment.
A number of challenges were presented to the project team including a tight schedule and the relocation of an existing 220kV line to make way for the new switchyard. A delay in delivery of one of the transformers also presented Beca with the unusual task of fast-tracking the design for a 'spare' temporary transformer to help ensure power supply to the South Morang area.
Despite the time and site constraints, Beca delivered a timely and efficient design, assisting to provide the greater northern Melbourne area with considerable capacity for future population growth.