Energy
Port Hedland Solar Farm
Project Overview
Location
Port Hedland, WA
TYPE
Solar
Key Deliverables
65MW Solar Farm
SECTOR
Energy
Scope of Work
Located near the Pilbara coast in Western Australia, the Port Hedland Solar Farm is a 65 MWdc solar energy project designed to strengthen local energy infrastructure and reduce emissions in one of the country’s key industrial regions. Positioned just 14 kilometres from BHP’s port operations, the farm is connected to the existing Port Hedland power station, enabling a direct renewable energy contribution to local industry. Developed in a remote yet strategically vital area, the project supports regional energy security while advancing Western Australia’s clean energy transition.
As EPC contractor, Monford Group was responsible for delivering the civil, mechanical, and electrical works for the Port Hedland Solar Farm. Our scope included full engineering and design services, as well as the procurement of essential materials. Monford managed construction of the entire facility—installing solar modules, mounting systems, inverters, and associated electrical infrastructure. Our team ensured seamless integration with the existing power station, delivering a technically complex project in a remote setting with a focus on safety, efficiency, and long-term performance. The Port Hedland Solar Farm is forecasted to power 100% of the average daytime energy requirements for BHP’s port facilities, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels in one of Western Australia’s most energy-intensive industrial hubs.
Innovations and Challenges Overcome
To ensure the Port Hedland Solar Farm’s durability in high-wind conditions, we designed the farm with reinforced panels and anchoring systems. Directional drilling was utilised to install cables across a live road, minimising disruption and environmental impact. To overcome transportation challenges, we used the Port of Port Hedland for material shipments, reducing emissions and streamlining logistics. This approach not only improved efficiency but also made the project more sustainable by minimising transportation emissions. By leveraging local resources and innovative techniques, we ensured the farm met the highest standards of resilience and efficiency.
The extreme weather conditions and remote location of the Port Hedland Solar Farm posed significant challenges. Dust storms, high temperatures, and cyclonic wind speeds required careful design to ensure the farm could withstand winds up to 288 km/h. The remote site, 14km from the power station, added logistical complexity. We relied on the local community for supplier recommendations, housing, and logistical support, which helped keep the project on track. We also implemented robust safety management plans to monitor hydration, heat stress, and staff wellbeing, ensuring a safe working environment. Through these efforts, we successfully overcame the challenges posed by the location and climate.
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