Rooftop solar, battery, dozens of EV chargers: Network launches depot “of future”

Western Power has launched a massive, modern energy depot south of Perth that will incorporate rooftop solar power, onsite battery energy storage and more than 30 electric vehicle charging stations.

Dubbed Boyli Mia, meaning Power House in local Noongar and Ballardong language, the South Metro Depot in Forrestdale consolidates four depots into one huge modern facility, housing 850 workers and 500 vehicles.

The $123 million hub includes 34 electric vehicle charging stations, a one-megawatt battery energy storage system, 10,000 square metres of solar panels and a drive-through undercover loading bay with 28 bays.

It also features a dedicated grid transformation warehouse for the purposes of research.

“Western Power’s new South Metro Depot has been designed for the future – to support the rapid transformation of the grid, while continuing to deliver safe and reliable power,” said state energy minister Bill Johnston at the facility’s launch.

“The consolidation of Kewdale, Jandakot, Forrestfield and Mt Claremont depots into the one at Forrestdale will improve efficiencies and services as well as help drive down network costs,” Johnston said.

“The facility emphasises the Cook government’s commitment to continue to deliver safe, reliable and affordable energy for all Western Australians.”

In an update on the project late last year, developer ADCO Constructions said the build had entailed a concrete pour totalling 79,000m2  – “nearly 4 MCG fields.