SEC inspires uni students to pursue a career in renewables

Student ambassadors from Engineers Australia have been given a behind-the-scenes tour of one of the world’s biggest batteries to see what a career in the renewables sector can offer.

The students from universities across Melbourne visited SEC’s Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub, located in Plumpton and co-owned with renewable energy investor Equis Australia.

The students were able to see the project’s 444 battery units and massive 335-tonne transformers up close. The units form a 600-megawatt battery energy storage system which will enhance Victoria’s electricity network by storing excess rooftop solar energy releasing it during times of high demand.

When the Hub comes online in late 2025, it will have the capacity to power around 200,000 homes during peak times.

The students had the opportunity to hear from some of the Hub’s onsite engineers on how they got into the industry and ask questions about what it’s like working on one of the world’s biggest batteries.

“People are at the heart of the energy transition which is why SEC is focused on creating exciting opportunities for students to experience renewable energy up close and learn about the vibrant career paths this sector has to offer,” the SEC’s Chief Executive Officer, Chris Miller, said.

“Through visits like this, the SEC can give students a greater understanding of the wide variety of roles required in the growing renewables sector and inspire them to make a real impact on Victoria’s renewable energy transition.

University of Melbourne engineering student Selini Samaranayake said: “The visit was eye-opening and helped me to decide that energy is the way to go.

“A lot of young students, particularly female, are not exposed to experiences like this when they start out. It opens doors and opportunities.”

Another student told the SEC that thanks to the visit, they had decided to change career paths and pursue a future in renewable energy.