This report details the how the project involves taking standard designs and localising them to the local standards and codes, as well to local site requirements.
Report extract
The construction of a utility scale solar project involves taking standard designs and localising them to the local standards and codes, as well to local site requirements. This involves co-ordinating international design teams with local subject matter experts to provide code compliant designs for cost-effective procurement and implementation.
Implications for future projects:
Future projects will benefit from the localisation of system designs and components to local standards and codes. This will enable future projects to be more easily replicated in similar conditions, without restricting the ability to implement improvements and new innovations into designs.
It is important however that project planning and cost estimates factor in the requirement for site specific design localisation, as well as localisation of new and innovative designs, components and methods.
Site-specific design examples include:
- Local environmental conditions – even if local standards are met, Australian conditions vary widely across the continent, including insolation, humidity, maximum temperature, wind conditions and the seasonality of all these parameters;
- Local transport requirements – road access and distance from ports and industrial centres may impact engineering design, procurement, logistics, and project implementation; and
- Local site conditions – including vegetation, soil conditions, site hydrology, etc may also require local nuances to standardised designs.
The availability and experience of local and regional engineering and construction firms can aid in understanding local conditions and requirements. This, coupled with international expertise and subject matter experts, can provide suitable and practical designs for local site conditions.