218.5 kWp / 200 kVA SOLAR PV ROOFTOP SYSTEM
The Balga Leisure Park solar PV upgrade involved the design, installation, testing, and commissioning of an additional grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) generation system to increase the site’s renewable energy capacity. The project was developed to expand the existing solar infrastructure and improve the facility’s ability to offset daytime electrical demand through onsite renewable energy generation.
The new PV system was integrated with the existing solar installation, increasing the total installed generation capacity while maintaining compatibility with the site’s existing electrical distribution network. The upgrade included the installation of a new SMA Sunny Tripower 125 kVA inverter and associated AC/DC electrical infrastructure to support the additional PV generation capacity.
System Size
- New Solar PV System Capacity: 143 kWp DC / 125 kVA AC
- Existing PV System Capacity: 75.5 kWp DC / 75 kVA AC
- Total Installed PV Capacity: 218.5 kWp DC / 200 kVA AC
- System Configuration: Grid-connected three-phase solar PV system
- New Inverter Installed: 1 × SMA Sunny Tripower 125 kVA inverter
- Grid Connection: Integrated into the existing low-voltage electrical distribution system
- System Operation: Solar generation operates in parallel with the site’s electrical supply to maximise onsite energy utilisation and reduce grid demand.
Equipment Used
Solar PV Modules
- Manufacturer: Trina
- Model: TSM-500NEG18R.20
- Total PV Capacity: 143kWp
- Module Rating: 500W per module
Inverter System
- Manufacturer: SMA
- Model Installed: Sunny Tripower SMA STP 125
- Rated Output: 125 kVA
- Configuration: Three-phase grid-connected inverter
SMA STP 125 Inverter
Installation Challenges
The Balga Leisure Park project presented several logistical and access challenges due to the building layout and multiple rooftop installation areas. While a crane was utilised to lift PV modules, inverters, and installation materials onto accessible roof sections, restricted site access prevented crane operation in certain areas of the building. To overcome this constraint, PV modules were unpacked at ground level and individually transported to the roof using a scissor lift. This approach ensured safe handling of the modules, reduced the risk of damage during transportation, and enabled the installation to proceed efficiently.
The One of the major challenges for the installation team was working in close proximity to discharge flues. To ensure personnel safety, work activities in these areas were carefully planned and managed, with scheduled breaks and appropriate work practices implemented to minimise exposure during flue discharge. Through detailed planning, coordinated lifting operations, and the implementation of appropriate access and safety controls, the installation was completed safely and efficiently with minimal disruption to the facility’s ongoing operations.
Outcomes & Client Benefits
The completed Balga Leisure Park solar PV upgrade has increased the facility’s renewable energy generation capability and improved the overall performance of the site’s electrical energy system. The system generated approximately 7,723.1 kWh of solar energy over the reporting period, contributing to reduced grid energy consumption and improved energy efficiency.
- Increased onsite renewable energy generation capacity through the addition of a 143kWp PV system.
- Improved solar energy utilisation to support the facility’s operational electricity demand.
- Enhanced system scalability through integration with the existing 75 kVA solar installation.
- Improved energy management capability through the installation of a high-efficiency SMA 125 kVA inverter.
- Reduced grid electricity dependency and improved long-term energy sustainability.
- Contribution towards the client’s environmental objectives through increased renewable energy adoption.
