Power Generation

Newman Power Station 2

Client

Clarke Energy

Duration

Sep 2021 - Nov 2022

Location

Newman, Western Australia, Australia

Value

$6 million

A complex, high-capacity generation upgrade in WA’s remote Pilbara region

Located in Western Australia’s Pilbara region, the Newman Power Station 2 was expanded to meet rising demand and increase energy resilience for the mining and resources sector. Delivered by Clarke Energy in collaboration with Alinta Energy, the project added 60 megawatts of gas-fired capacity via 14 high-efficiency Jenbacher engines.

PHE Group was engaged to deliver all electrical and instrumentation (E&I) works, integrating major infrastructure across HV, LV, and control systems. The works were delivered in staged conditions, with sequencing aligned to strict safety and performance targets. The site’s isolation – compounded by COVID-related border closures – presented significant challenges across freight, labour, and procurement. Through advanced planning, live tracking systems, and flexible team management, PHE maintained momentum and delivered safely in a constrained and high-pressure environment.

Project Scope

Delivered full E&I installation for 14 new gas generators under staged conditions.
Installed instrumentation and control systems for fans, pumps, gas train valves, and balance-of-plant infrastructure.
Procured and installed cable containment systems, with interconnection cabling across HV, LV, and control.
Performed all terminations to Protection and Control Rooms, with 240V UPS and 48VDC system integration.
Installed, terminated, and tested all LV and control cabling in accordance with site sequencing.
Bonded all equipment to the earth grid in compliance with Australian standards.
Installed 11kV cabling, performed HV terminations, and carried out insulation resistance, VLF, and ductor testing.
Replaced transformers and upgraded protection relays within the existing 66kV switchyard.
Installed hazardous area-rated equipment for gas trains, with EEHA inspections to AS/NZS 60079 standards.

Innovations and Solutions

Implemented detailed logistics planning to overcome remote access constraints and limited regional infrastructure.
Engaged freight providers early and used staggered delivery schedules to manage bulk materials across long distances.
Introduced a live procurement tracking system to monitor long-lead items during COVID-related supply chain disruptions.
Adapted delivery sequencing on site to maintain progress despite border closures and restricted access to labour.
Deployed extended accommodation and adjusted rosters to reduce travel fatigue and retain skilled interstate personnel.

Outcomes and Benefits

Completed works on time despite pandemic-related freight, labour, and material disruptions.
Achieved zero recordable safety incidents across 30,000 hours on site.
Demonstrated PHE's ability to deliver high-performance infrastructure in remote conditions – reinforcing trust in our responsiveness and reliability.
In response to COVID-era pressures, workforce wellbeing was prioritised through structured rest breaks and mental health initiatives – helping maintain morale and resilience during extended site restrictions.

Project Images