Synertec has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Santos to develop a sustainable power system which can meeting the energy requirements of Santos’ Myalla coal seam gas (CSG) well cluster in Roma, Queensland.
The MOU relates to the Powerhouse Project which is renewable energy and battery power system for CSG well de-watering.
Beyond Myalla, the potential value in developing independent solar power stations powering remote coal seam gas wells could achieve reduction of carbon emissions, minimise impact on landowners and reduce infrastructure and maintenance costs.
Under the agreement, Synertec will progress the design, construction and field testing of the prototype solar energy power system.
Santos will support these activities by providing pilot field site access, inputs into the project design, technical information pertaining to the pilot field sites, and technical and other engineering resources
It is envisaged that the Powerhouse Project may be the first of its kind to be deployed in Australia. The parties will work together to develop an agreed business plan and commercial arrangement for the supply, maintenance and operation of the Powerhouse Project by Synertec to Santos, as well as identifying all relevant stakeholder approvals and endorsements.
The key objective of the project is to bring about the development of innovative features which improve the sustainability, reliability and viability of Australia’s gas production processes. The expected costs of the project for Synertec are estimated to be $3 million.
Synertec managing director Micheal Carroll said the company was excited to work with Santos, a long-time customer.
“We see a close alignment between Santos’ focus on reducing global greenhouse gas emissions and Synertec’s drive to support its partners’ Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance,” he said.
“We are well placed to deliver this solution with our long-standing experience providing safe critical solutions to key Australian Energy and Critical Infrastructure sites. We also believe there is strong alignment in the values and an innovative culture between our respective organisations, and for this reason, we work well together.”
Santos and Synertec will determine success of the project based on the achievement of a range of key technical objectives and field practicalities within 12 months of commencement, including safety, system availability, battery performance, remote control, support for high power loads, footprint size, transportability and recyclability.
The MOU commenced on 31 July 2021 and will be effective for 12 months unless terminated earlier by mutual agreement or replaced by a commercial agreement between the parties.