BESS

The scope of works included structural design and assessment of multiple components within the BESS facility, including:

• Foundations for high-voltage equipment such as transformers, circuit breakers, and surge arrestors
• Structural supports and footings for battery banks, inverter units, and associated infrastructure
• Design of auxiliary structures including light masts, lightning protection systems, and fencing
• Coordination with civil and electrical disciplines for integrated infrastructure delivery

The project required consideration of complex loading conditions including wind, seismic, equipment, and short-circuit forces, as outlined in the structural calculations .

The project presented several engineering and coordination challenges:

• Complex loading conditions including wind region A5, seismic actions, and equipment-induced forces requiring robust and compliant design
• Variable ground conditions, including calcrete layers and alluvial soils, impacting foundation design and constructability
• High equipment loads, with transformers up to 150 tonnes requiring efficient load transfer solutions
• Integration with electrical infrastructure, including cable routing constraints that impacted structural configurations
• Late-stage design changes, such as removal of cross bracing in critical structures due to cable installation constraints

We delivered a coordinated and efficient engineering solution through:

• Development of optimised foundation systems tailored to site-specific geotechnical conditions, ensuring stability while minimising excavation and material use
• Detailed structural analysis incorporating wind, seismic, and short-circuit loading scenarios to ensure compliance with Australian Standards
• Engineering redesign of structural systems to accommodate removal of cross bracing, maintaining structural integrity while enabling critical cable installation requirements
• Close multidisciplinary coordination to resolve clashes between structural elements and electrical systems, improving constructability and reducing site delays
• Implementation of standardised and repeatable footing solutions across multiple equipment types to improve construction efficiency and cost-effectiveness

The final design provided a robust, buildable, and efficient structural solution, enabling successful delivery of a critical energy infrastructure project while addressing site, loading, and coordination constraints.