Episode 8: Flinders Island and Hydro Tasmania’s Hybrid Energy Hub

The Hybrid Energy Hub combines a series of advanced technologies that work together to ensure a reliable and sustainable energy supply for the island’s 950 residents. Here’s a breakdown of how it all fits together:

• Solar panels: The Hub is equipped with a 200kW solar array that harnesses sunlight throughout the day, providing a clean and renewable source of power. The solar output is stored for later use, so it can be used even after the sun goes down.

• Wind turbines: Two wind turbines complement the solar power generation. The 900kW wind turbines capture the island’s natural wind energy and convert it into electricity. They are particularly effective in harnessing power when the sun isn’t shining, ensuring the island stays powered in all weather conditions.

• Battery storage: Excess energy generated by the solar panels and wind turbines is stored in large-scale, 750kW / 266kWh battery storage systems. This energy can be tapped into when the renewable resources aren’t producing enough power, such as on cloudy days or during periods of low wind.

• Flywheel technology: Flywheels are an essential part of the system’s stability. They act like energy reservoirs, rapidly charging and discharging to help maintain the balance and stability of the grid. The 850kVA flywheel provides quick-response power during moments when there’s a sudden spike in demand or a drop in renewable generation, preventing outages.

• Smart control systems: The heart of the system is an intelligent control network that dynamically manages all of the different energy sources. The system decides when to tap into solar, wind, battery storage, or even diesel, ensuring that power is always available and the grid remains stable.

• Diesel backup: Diesel generators are the final piece of the puzzle. Though mostly sitting idle when renewables are performing well, they can be dispatched quickly to provide power during times of extreme weather or when renewables fall short. Diesel power serves as a safety net, ensuring the island’s lights stay on no matter the conditions.

Together, these technologies form an integrated system that powers the island with up to 60% renewable energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting emissions. The system’s design allows for 100% renewable energy generation when conditions are optimal, making it one of Australia’s leading examples of hybrid renewable energy technology.

As Simon explained, the project was one of Australia’s earliest examples of high-penetration renewables used in a grid application—and with 350 kilometres of distribution lines across the island, that’s no small feat.