In late 2023, AusPac Solar delivered a powerful and financially transformative off-grid energy solution for a commercial earthworks client located east of Emerald in Blackwater, QLD.
This high-performance ground-mounted system eliminates diesel dependency while providing long-term energy security in one of Australia's harshest climates.
Here we take you into detail on how we rolled out this installation and how we met our customer's demands.
Ground-Mounted Array – 224 Panels:
Installed under the 100kw STC threshold, the ground-mount system includes 224 high-output solar panels, strategically designed to maximise federal rebate eligibility. The system delivers between 400–600 kWh per day, covering all operational loads with robust reliability.
Battery Storage – 18 Batteries, 104 kWh Capacity:
The energy storage solution includes 18 high-performance batteries with a usable capacity of 85 kWh and a depth of discharge of 80%. The batteries are rated for 6,000 cycles, offering an estimated lifespan of over 16 years, with a 10-year warranty.
Inverter System – 6-Unit Parallel Configuration:
The system is powered by six hybrid inverters (one master, five slaves) delivering a total of 450A output, supporting both day-to-day load and surge capacity. The system includes full integration and smart control logic, allowing precise communication between components, batteries, and the generator.
66 kVA Diesel Generator (Backup):
A 66 kVA gen set with a 33 kVA minimum output per phase supports backup power needs. Integrated with smart load control and charge-stabilising features, the generator is only run at optimal efficiency (60–70% load) and primarily used for topping up batteries or handling extreme demand peaks.
Automated Switchover & Remote Monitoring:
Using a SOX parallel box, the site’s infrastructure intelligently manages switching between solar, battery, and generator sources. The system is also equipped with remote monitoring tools that allow AusPac and the client to track performance, battery status, and generator engagement in real time.
Climate-Hardened Design:
Built for Central Queensland Conditions:
With ambient temperatures reaching 45–50°C, the system is fully shaded and housed within a custom concrete enclosure designed by the client. All inverters are rated to operate between -35°C to 60°C, ensuring resilience in extreme heat.
IP55/IP65 Protection:
All system components are IP-rated for dust and weather ingress protection, making them ideal for rugged, remote commercial use.
Commercial Integration:
Infrastructure-First Approach:
Cabling, switchboards, isolators, and backup circuits were designed to align with the site’s operational layout. Energy flows are precisely controlled from solar to battery to EPS (emergency power supply) terminals, ensuring seamless integration into the client's existing electrical distribution system.
Real-Time Load Matching:
The system actively manages generator load balancing and reduces fuel wastage by charging batteries efficiently during generator run time, increasing total energy conversion per litre of diesel.
Financial Advantages
Government Rebate:
The project qualified for approximately $45,000 in STCS, reducing upfront costs and making the system financially viable under the 100 kw limit.
Massive Fuel Savings:
Prior to solar, the client was spending between $1,500 to $2,000 per week on diesel. Post-installation, this figure has dropped to around $125–$150/week, equating to a 90–95% reduction in diesel costs.
Return on Investment:
The system is projected to pay for itself in under 5 years, with long-term benefits continuing for over a decade thanks to the extended lifecycle of the batteries and inverter warranties.
Return on Investment:
The system is projected to pay for itself in under 5 years, with long-term benefits continuing for over a decade thanks to the extended lifecycle of the batteries and inverter warranties.
Thinking About Going Off-Grid for Your Business or Property?
Reach out to AusPac Solar today
AusPac Solar specialises in scalable, fully off-grid solar systems for agriculture, earthworks, and remote operations across Queensland. From ground mount design to full electrical integration, our team brings deep technical expertise and unmatched support.
