Moomba Electrification Project
GPA were engaged by Santos to support Stage 1 of the Moomba Electrification and Upstream Network Optimisation (UNO) Project. This stage involved the construction of new step‑up transformers, a 33 kV overhead transmission line (OHL), and associated electrical infrastructure to supply power from the Moomba Plant to four existing remote gas satellites. Upgrades were completed at each satellite to enable electrical and control tie‑ins to the new overhead line.
The Electrification Project eliminates the need for local generation at each satellite, simplifying electrical supply arrangements, reducing operating expenditure, lowering fuel consumption, and improving overall facility uptime. The new 33 kV OHL network has also enabled the installation of six additional Low‑Low Pressure (LLP) compression facilities in the Cooper Basin. Importantly, the network has been designed to allow a streamlined upgrade to 66 kV for future Stage 2 expansion.
GPA was engaged by Santos to provide:
- Project Front End Engineering level design (FEED), preliminary cost estimation and project scoping.
- Project studies including hydrology, LFI, load flow, earthing, insulation coordination and protection.
- Design of complex protection schemes.
- Support to overall project execution and procurement.
- Review of the selected OHL Contractors design documentation.
- System SCADA configuration.
- Construction supervision.
- Testing and commissioning support.
The new OHL reticulation network provides a safe, stable, and cost‑effective electrical supply for the participating satellites, LLP facilities, and associated upstream assets. Electrification has reduced reliance on local generation, minimised operational complexity, reduced emissions linked to fuel use, and improved the reliability of supply across Santos’ Cooper Basin operations.
