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CABLE INSTALLATION - 
URALLA (NSW)

Client: Green Light Contractor Pty Ltd

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Location: Uralla, NSW, Australia

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Project Name: New England Solar Farm MV Cable Installation

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Service:  Installation, backfilling, termination, testing and jointing of Medium Voltage (MV) cables for a 400MW solar farm

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Date started: January 2022

Date completed: March 2023

 

​Challenges

The New England Solar Farm in Uralla, NSW, stands as Australia’s largest solar farm with a capacity of 400 MW. Tesmec Australia was entrusted with all MV works, including the installation of 51 km of MV cables, trench excavation and preparation of various widths (300 mm, 600 mm, 900 mm, and 1200 mm), and the management of 16 road crossings and 4 creek crossings. Additionally, Tesmec Australia was responsible for the termination and testing of cables for 72 PCUs. The project faced significant challenges, including uneven and rocky terrain, variable weather conditions, coordination with other construction activities, and managing three crews simultaneously.

 

Solution

To overcome these challenges, Tesmec employed a meticulous approach. Detailed site surveys and advanced planning, supported by GPS and GIS technology, optimized trench routes. Tesmec's specialized trenching equipment played a pivotal role. The TRS1075 trencher and the ST2 trencher efficiently handled the rocky terrain, minimizing manual labour and enhancing precision. Tesmec's three binding machines ensured secure and efficient installation by binding the three phases of cables in a trefoil formation. Additionally, three RC320 drum carriers, each capable of holding up to 50 tonnes, facilitated the smooth transportation of heavy cable drums. Tesmec had a subcontractor to undertake cable testing, jointing and termination works with precision and expertise.

 

​Result

Despite the formidable challenges, the project was completed successfully completed. Careful planning, advanced technology, and skilled personnel deployment ensured the operational efficiency of the New England Solar Farm. The use of specialized Tesmec machinery, including the TRS1075 trencher, ST2 trencher, binding machines, and RC320 drum carriers, played a crucial role in overcoming obstacles. This project not only met its objectives but also set a benchmark for similar large-scale renewable energy projects, showcasing effective problem-solving and project management under challenging conditions.

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Key fact

  • Trenching in rock

  • 4 creek crossings and several floodways.

  • Running and managing 3 crews simultaneously.

  • Termination and cable testing of 72 PCUs (RMU)

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Key equipment used:

OUR CLIENTS

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