An interesting opportunity has emerged to power the world’s largest radio telescope.
The Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) has opened a market survey for the design, build and operation of a hybrid Central Power Station to supply the SKA-Low Telescope in Western Australia’s Murchison region.
The Square Kilometre Array (SKA) is an international radio astronomy project designed to be the world’s largest and most sensitive telescope. Spread across remote sites in Western Australia and South Africa, it will eventually comprise thousands of antennas and dishes with a combined collecting area of over one square kilometre.
Once operational, the SKA will generate unprecedented volumes of data, enabling scientists to probe the early universe, study galaxy formation, and test fundamental physics with unmatched precision.
The long-term power purchase agreement, spanning 20 to 30 years, is expected to attract Independent Power Producers (IPPs) with expertise in hybrid renewable systems.
The project will mark the second phase of the SKA-Low Central Power Station (CPS), with companies required to register their interest via the SKAO Procurement Portal by 6 September 2025.
An industry briefing will follow later that month, ahead of a formal Invitation to Tender in 2026.
CPS Phase 1, a diesel-powered installation operated by the SKAO, is due online in early 2026.
Under CPS Phase 2, the successful IPP will assume responsibility for integrating the diesel assets with new solar photovoltaic and battery storage systems.
The PV array is envisaged at 8–16 MWp capacity, with all generation to be distributed through the site’s existing 11 kV high-voltage network.
Power from the CPS connects via the Receiving Substation to the Central Processing Facility before reticulating across the telescope’s core and spiral arms.
The SKAO expects Phase 2 to deliver a high renewable fraction while ensuring reliability for the telescope’s demanding operations.
It will require the appointed supplier to design, build, operate and maintain the full hybrid system under a bespoke long-term PPA commencing in February 2027.
In line with its Indigenous engagement commitments, the SKAO is encouraging proposals that include meaningful participation of local and Wajarri Yamaji-owned businesses.
Preference may be given to consortia that demonstrate Indigenous ownership, subcontracting, or programs that deliver sustained employment, training and community benefits.
The procurement is classified under a restricted ITT procedure. The formal tender process will run through to November 2026, with contract commencement scheduled for early 2027.