Perth, Western Australia 6000
ABN: [To be registered]
Email: contact@powerupenergy.com.au
363 Wellington Street
Perth WA 6000
Email: connections@westernpower.com.au
RE: Pre-Enquiry — Sub-5 MW Embedded Generation Facility Connection to 11kV Distribution Network
Dear Major Customer Connections Team,
We are writing to submit a pre-enquiry regarding the connection of a new embedded generation facility to Western Power's 11kV distribution network within the South West Interconnected System (SWIS).
1. Company Overview
PowerUP Energy Pty Ltd is a Western Australian company being established to develop, own, and operate a sub-5 MW power generation facility. The facility will participate in the Wholesale Electricity Market (WEM) capacity credit mechanism, providing reserve capacity to support grid reliability in the SWIS.
2. Project Description
We propose to connect a behind-the-meter generation facility with the following parameters:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Facility Type | Diesel/Gas Generator Set Power Plant |
| Total Capacity | < 5 MW (exact configuration to be confirmed) |
| Connection Voltage | 11kV Distribution |
| Generator Type | Synchronous (Cat® 3516C or equivalent with native 11kV alternator) |
| Number of Units | 2–5 units (depending on equipment selection) |
| Connection Type | Behind-the-meter embedded generation |
| Dispatch Mode | Capacity credit facility — primarily standby with seasonal dispatch |
| Target Commissioning | Q3 2027 |
3. Preferred Connection Locations
We are currently evaluating multiple potential sites within the SWIS and would welcome Western Power's guidance on network areas with available 11kV capacity. Our site selection criteria include:
- Proximity to 11kV distribution feeders with adequate spare capacity
- Minimal or no upstream network augmentation required
- Industrial or rural zoning compatible with generation facilities
- Access to gas pipeline infrastructure
We would appreciate if Western Power could provide information on any preferred connection points or identify areas with known capacity constraints to avoid.
4. Technical Information
The proposed equipment includes:
- Generator Sets: Caterpillar 3516C with 11kV synchronous alternator (2,100 kW per unit) — or equivalent
- 11kV Switchgear: Vacuum circuit breaker (VCB) panel with protection relays (differential, overcurrent, earth fault)
- Metering: Revenue-grade metering with current and voltage transformers per Western Power specifications
- Protection: Full protection scheme compliant with WAER and Western Power's embedded generator technical requirements
- Earthing: System earthing as per Western Power's distribution network requirements
5. Information Requested
In accordance with Western Power's connection process, we request a Connection Option Assessment including:
- Up to 3 connection options with AACE Class 5 scope, cost, and timeframe estimates
- Available network capacity at identified connection points
- Indicative network augmentation requirements (if any)
- Indicative timeline from enquiry through to energisation
- Required engineering studies (steady-state, dynamic stability)
- Applicable fees for the enquiry and subsequent stages
6. GPS & AEMO Registration
As the facility will be below 5 MW, we understand that Generator Performance Standards (GPS) requirements may be simplified. We would appreciate confirmation of:
- Whether GPS compliance is required for a sub-5 MW facility on 11kV distribution
- AEMO registration requirements or exemptions applicable
- Any specific requirements for capacity credit certification
7. Attachments
We will provide the following upon commencement of the formal Connection Application stage:
- Completed Connection Application Form
- Single-line diagram
- Generator data sheets (Cat 3516C or selected equipment)
- Proposed site plan and coordinates
- Evidence of planning approval (or application status)
We look forward to Western Power's response and guidance on next steps. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you require any additional information.
Yours sincerely,
[Director Name]
Director
PowerUP Energy Pty Ltd
Phone: [Phone Number]
Email: contact@powerupenergy.com.au