Technology group Wärtsilä will supply engines for a 59 MW power plant extension in Moomba, South Australia. The expanded facility forms part of an energy infrastructure upgrade being carried out by one of Australia’s major oil and gas producers. The project will modernise ageing gas field infrastructure by replacing the compression at seven gas-driven compressor stations with a single centralised electric-driven station. The order with Wärtsilä was booked in Q3 2026.

The power plant will operate with five Wärtsilä 31SG engine generator units running with gas from the local Moomba fields. The Wärtsilä 31SG was selected for its proven efficiency, supporting cost-efficient energy production and contributing to the overall economics of the gas processing operation.

In addition to the engines, which are scheduled for delivery in mid-2027, Wärtsilä will provide advisory services to support the project.

“Used in numerous installations worldwide, the Wärtsilä 31SG has high efficiency and is particularly suited to applications where optimising the cost of gas production is a priority,” explains Kari Punnonen, Energy Business Director, Australasia at Wärtsilä Energy. “Our broad portfolio and proven track record of Wärtsilä 31SG installations certainly adds to its attractiveness. As our client progresses their strategy, the flexibility of the Wärtsilä 31SG engine may provide future opportunities to operate on sustainable fuels and support the integration of renewable energy sources into the site’s energy mix.”