ENGIE Australia has selected ABB to modernise the Pelican Point Power Station distribution control system infrastructure to the latest ABB Ability System 800xA controller, AC 800M, to improve operational performance and reliability
The Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) facility, located 20km north-west of central Adelaide, delivers 50% of South Australia’s annual thermal generation needs.
Pelican Point is a natural gas-fired CCGT power station with two gas turbines and one steam turbine, generating a maximum capacity of 532MW. Located on the Lefere Peninsula, it is a vital infrastructure asset supplying electricity to South Australia.
ABB is set to modernise the facility’s Advant controllers to the latest AC 800M controller for one of the gas turbines and the steam turbine to improve the automation technology, reinforce cyber security and enhance real-time monitoring.
Don Ivory, engineer and maintenance manager, ENGIE Australia, said, “Pelican Point Power Station plays a key role in supporting South Australia’s energy supply, and this modernisation reflects our continued commitment to maintaining strong operational performance and preparing for future demands. Our collaboration with ABB is delivering meaningful outcomes by strengthening efficiency, reliability and long-term asset value, as well as positioning the station for sustained performance in a changing energy landscape.”
Supported by an ABB Care Agreement, ABB has remained a trusted partner at Pelican Point, providing ongoing maintenance and technical expertise while identifying opportunities to upgrade and extend the life of this asset.
Since 2019, ABB has supported the evolution of the facility’s systems to ensure reliability, operational stability, and long-term performance in a demanding environment.
To meet the demand for energy in South Australia, where reliability of supply and asset longevity are critical, the collaboration with ENGIE has focused on improving the facility’s ability to provide consistent, efficient power to the grid while preparing for future operational demands.
Aaron Trueman, vice president of ABB’s Energy Industries division in Australia, said, “Modernisation of control systems is essential to maintain stable and reliable power supply that communities and industries depend on. By combining our deep expertise with a strong partnership approach, we are supporting Pelican Point Power Station to enhance performance, improve efficiency and strengthen long-term resilience.”
Electricity consumption in Australia is expected to increase from 180TWh to around 210-230TWh by 2030, according to the Australian Energy Market Operator. In response to demand, modernisation has become a priority for energy producers, particularly operators of existing power plants, to ensure they can continue to deliver a reliable and efficient electricity supply.
