Westsun Energy Chooses Fronius for Reliable WA Solar Projects
Westsun Energy has made a significant move in the commercial solar sector in Western Australia by installing ten Fronius Tauro inverters at a 1.3MW solar project. The choice of Fronius underscores the increasing variety within the Australian renewable energy market, which has become saturated with emerging brands, offering a plethora of options for developers and installers.
However, this influx of new products can lead to complexities and potential issues, particularly since many solutions lack extensive field testing. Thus, having a dependable partner is essential.
Trust in Established Brands
“We’ve encountered challenges with the reliability of products manufactured in China, where our clients have experienced breakdowns leading to expensive downtime. Many of these companies fade in and out of the market,” shared Ben Emery, director of Westsun Energy. “This is why we opt for Fronius, a well-established European firm that boasts a robust local presence and a varied global supply chain.”
Emery highlighted the advantages of having direct access to Fronius representatives for quick support. “I can reach out to Shane Arnold, the Fronius Australia WA state manager, any time and also visit their office in Subiaco to resolve any issues I might be facing. Fronius is open and dependable.”
At the WA solar project, the deployment of ten 100kW Fronius Tauro inverters aids not only in supporting the solar array but also in providing essential grid protection within the tightly regulated WA energy sector.
Addressing Increasing Energy Needs
Emery discussed the rationale behind the installation, stating, “The client—a prominent engineering firm—has seen a steep rise in their electricity costs, prompting them to explore innovative energy generation due to grid limitations.” He added that the expansion of their factory to accommodate additional CNC machinery necessitates a consistent indoor temperature of approximately 24 degrees Celsius, demanding substantial energy for air conditioning to maintain optimal operation.
As businesses operating in the South West Interconnected System (SWIS) strive to grow, they are often constrained by the amount of electricity they can extract from the grid. Meanwhile, a transition towards electrification and an increasing reliance on renewable energy sources is intensifying demand on the SWIS.
Fronius Offers Reliable Solutions
The unique energy landscape in WA has paved the way for testing high-efficiency alternatives that are grounded in reliability, compliance, and cost-effectiveness. This evolution calls for not just fresh perspectives but also reliable partnerships, a quality for which Fronius is well known.
Fronius Tauro inverters come equipped with remote monitoring capabilities via the Solar.web platform, enabling installers and operators to oversee and adjust their systems remotely. “Fronius inverters grant us a clear insight into operations,” Emery mentioned. “We can monitor contactors and relays, accessing the system through our secure network. If any issues arise, we are notified instantly and can troubleshoot remotely, ensuring quick restoration of the system.”
Cost-Effectiveness of Integrated Features
Westsun’s installation exceeded 220kVA, rendering grid protection compulsory. Typically, this would require additional hardware and engineering, significantly raising installation costs. However, by utilising the Tauro’s integrated wired shutdown functionality, Westsun saved approximately $55,000, as it negated the need for external protection devices while still adhering to all compliance measures.
Emery elaborated on the advantages of this capability, stating, “When there is an AC loss, the inverter powers down automatically—a built-in feature. However, Western Power insists on secondary anti-islanding protection, requiring an alternative method to shut off the inverter when AC is absent.”
“Most inverters lack built-in contactors and relays for this secondary safety measure, often resulting in extra costs and installation demands. In contrast, Fronius provides Western Power-approved integrated contactors that offer this vital layer of protection, making it a significant selling point.”
Long-Term Partnerships in a Volatile Market
Shane Arnold of Fronius referred to this development as a key means of eliminating risk. “Using a motorised contactor ties you to its warranty and lifespan, which tends to be short. In contrast, with Fronius’ onboard disconnect feature, you benefit from extended warranty options.” He noted that any necessary replacements could be managed without taking down the entire system.
The collaboration between Westsun and Fronius showcases a strong alliance in a market full of unreliable products, contributing significantly to Westsun’s growing client base and further validating Fronius’ technology. Emery remarked, “Many in this industry enter and exit rapidly—they lack long-term vision. As a provider of renewable energy solutions, I want to collaborate with companies that demonstrate longevity.”
“Fronius is one such entity. You’ll find a Fronius welder in any engineering workshop across Perth, equally esteemed as their inverters. Fronius consistently innovates and diversifies while remaining committed to quality and reliability—qualities that make them an ideal partner.”
