Containerised Off-Grid Solar Deployment
When you’re operating in remote WA, time and access are often your biggest constraints. That’s why containerised off-grid solar solutions have become so valuable—they shift most of the work offsite, into a controlled environment, and minimise the complexity of field deployment.
GWA has engineered and delivered containerised systems for Pilbara clients who need reliable power, fast.
What Is a Containerised Solar Solution?
A containerised system is essentially a pre-built microgrid in a box:
- Inverters, switchboards and controls pre-installed
- Batteries (where required) pre-racked and wired
- Protection and communication systems pre-tested
- Container built to withstand remote conditions
Onsite, you primarily:
- Set the container
- Connect to the PV field and/or gensets
- Commission and energise
Where Containerised Solar Makes Sense
Containerised systems are ideal when you need:
- Rapid deployment (e.g., new operations ramp-up)
- Temporary or semi-permanent power
- Minimal onsite construction
- Standardised design replicated across multiple locations
Examples include:
- Remote camps
- Satellite facilities
- Early-works power for new developments
- Non-process infrastructure and ancillary loads
Deployment Timeline: From Yard to Energised
A typical deployment might look like:
- Concept and sizing – Understand load profile, runtime expectations, redundancy requirements.
- Engineering and detailed design – Mechanical, electrical, controls, protection.
- Factory build and FAT – Assemble container, integrate equipment, run Factory Acceptance Testing.
- Transport to site – Road or multi-modal freight.
- Set and connect – Place container, connect DC and AC cables, integrate with existing systems.
- Commissioning – Verify protection, controls, islanding behaviour and load transitions.
By shifting engineering and integration into the workshop, you reduce weather risk, rework, and travel overheads.
Design and Engineering Considerations
Containerised doesn’t mean “cookie-cutter”. You still need to get the design right:
- Structural and cyclone rating of container and mounting
- Ventilation and temperature control
- Access for maintenance
- Future expandability (additional containers or PV strings)
- Integration with diesel gensets and site SCADA
GWA approaches containerised projects the same way we approach any critical infrastructure: engineered for the environment first.
A Project Snapshot
One recent project saw our team deliver a containerised solar system to a remote WA site with compressed timelines.
Key outcomes:
- System built and tested in our facility
- Delivered and set on site with minimal disruption
- Integrated with existing generation and controls
- Provided a scalable platform for further renewables
GWA designs and delivers containerised solar and hybrid solutions built for the Pilbara and regional WA.