SEC and Equis spark student interest in renewable energy careers

01 October 2025

Students from Harvester Technical College have explored one of the world’s biggest batteries, discovering first-hand the opportunities a career in renewable energy can offer.

More than 15 students studying a Certificate II in Electrotechnology toured the Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub in Plumpton – a project co-owned by SEC and renewable energy investor Equis Australia.

On site, students saw the project’s 444 battery units and enormous 335-tonne transformers. Together, these form a 600-megawatt battery energy storage system capable of strengthening Victoria’s electricity grid by storing energy and releasing it during peak demand.

Due to be completed in late 2025, the Hub will have the capacity to power around 200,000 homes during high-use periods.

The students also heard from onsite electricians and engineers about their career journeys and what it’s like working on one of the world’s largest battery projects.

“Renewable energy isn’t just about technology, it’s about people,” said SEC Executive General Manager, Assets Lane Crockett.

“By opening up projects like the Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub to students, we’re demonstrating the scale of change underway and the career pathways available to be part of it.”

Harvester Technical College Electrotechnology teacher, Jason Aquilina said taking his class to the Hub was a valuable experience.

“It not only brought the theory to life but also inspired my students to embrace sustainable technologies through applied learning,” Mr Aquilina said.

“Exploring the latest innovations opened their eyes to the exciting career opportunities in the renewable energy sector, preparing them to be the future leaders and innovators in this rapidly growing industry.”

Equis Project Construction Manager Stephen Donaldson spoke to students about career paths in renewable energy.

“Sharing our experience building one of the world’s most advanced batteries was a great way to engage students and showcase how exciting a career in electrical trades and engineering can be,” Mr Donaldson said.

The school visit is part of a series of educational tours hosted by SEC and Equis, designed to engage  students of all ages in the career opportunities offered by the clean energy transition.

Since construction began in late 2023, more than 1,106 people have worked on the Hub, including 71 apprentices, trainees and cadets – highlighting the strong pipeline of skills needed for Victoria’s renewable energy workforce.

More information about the Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub can be found on our Melbourne  Renewable Energy Hub page.