UNESCO resource kit - science and technology educa...
UNESCO resource kit - science and technology educa...
UNESCO resource kit - science and technology educa...
You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
UlYESCOModule 2 J: Photovoltaic systems ---------- _<br />
Power for offshore oil <strong>and</strong> gas fields in Australia<br />
Page 12<br />
Where in the world?<br />
Australia, on the North West Shelf oilfield.<br />
Why is it important?<br />
Every platform needs its own independent<br />
power supply to operate.<br />
Once an offshore oilfield has been<br />
developed, some of the oil production can be<br />
controlled automatically. These are called<br />
un-manned offshore platforms.<br />
Solar electricity is generated by photovoltaic<br />
(PV) cells <strong>and</strong> this is an ideal power source<br />
in Australian waters where sunlight is freely<br />
available.<br />
To produce oil <strong>and</strong> gas safely it is essential<br />
that electricity is always available. Electricity<br />
is needed to operate the control systems <strong>and</strong><br />
to monitor how the oilfield is working.<br />
Production platforms on their own in the sea need good warning lights for<br />
passing ships.<br />
What is the system like?<br />
The offshore platform has four solar power systems. These produce the power<br />
needed to operate all the safety <strong>and</strong> monitoring devices onboard. The solar<br />
powered navigation lights are strong enough to be seen up to 10 nautical miles<br />
away. Solar electricity is stored in batteries for use at night when there is no<br />
sunlight.<br />
Technical <strong>and</strong> financial summary<br />
Each system uses 20 special BP Solar panels, designed for use at sea. Energy is<br />
stored in a 24V battery bank.<br />
Finance for this project came from Western Australian Petroleum. The total cost<br />
was £200 000.
Change language