Optimal Group Australia Pty Ltd has been awarded a contract to supply three megawatts (3MW) of power generation with three C1000 (1MW) Capstone Microturbines for D’VineRipe’s 27-hectare glasshouse at Two Wells in South Australia.
D’VineRipe, one of Australia's largest producers of glasshouse tomatoes with a 27-hectare glasshouse located in Two Wells South Australia (40km North of Adelaide) has just awarded Optimal Group Australia the contract to supply 3 MW of Capstone C1000 Microturbines. The facility produces high-quality vine-ripened tomatoes for local markets. D’VineRipe is currently undertaking its 3rd expansion of the Two Wells site with the addition of a further 8.2 hectares of glasshouse.
D’VineRipe is one of Australia's largest producers of glasshouse tomatoes.
With limited grid power available in Two Wells, the site is self-reliant, with its own 24/7 onsite power generation using reciprocating engines. As part of the current expansion, D’VineRipe reviewed the performance of their existing generators and sought a solution that would both reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and deliver a more reliable power supply.
"This site is totally reliant on the power from our generators 24/7”, said Mr Byron Mason, Project Manager for D’VineRipe. "In addition, power demand in glasshouses is very dynamic in summer months and our electrical loads fluctuate rapidly due to cloud cover, wind and rain. Our existing gensets often struggled to respond to the power demand these weather-induced fluctuations cause, requiring a mix of different engine types and sizes including some diesel units to meet our needs.
We were attracted to the Capstone Microturbine technology with its ability to respond rapidly to load fluctuations due to its unique inverter-based control system and onboard battery pack. Working with Optimal we have developed a solution that will meet our expanded power needs, and provide us with a more flexible source of power. The three C1000s will reduce our reliance on diesel, reduce our cost of power and reduce our CO2 emissions. The Capstone Microturbine solution will be the backbone of our future power needs," added Mr Mason.
Capstone C1000 Microturbine, which also has cogeneration capabilities.
Mr. Craig Dugan, CEO of Optimal Group elaborated on the solution’s suitability adding, “Capstone Microturbines offer outstanding flexibility for this application. We are delighted that D’VineRipe has selected Capstone Microturbines for this contract. It’s a wonderful demonstration of the significant advantages Microturbines offer over conventional reciprocating generators. This site will be an excellent reference for potential customers in the resources area who often experience similar issues with load response.”
Due for commissioning in April 2015 the site will be the equal largest Capstone installation in Australia and brings the amount of installed Capstone generator capacity in Australia to 18 MW. “Power security, low cost of power and reduced greenhouse gas emissions continue to be a major driver for our customers. The Capstone Microturbine provides Optimal with the ability to meet the needs of our customers in this challenging energy market,” added Mr Dugan.