The Gas Pressure Reduction Station (PRS) was not related to the function of East Perth Power Station and was installed in the late 1980s, more than five years after its closure. The site behind the power station was chosen as it was vacant and had been for a long time. It was located in close proximity to high-pressure gas pipelines, the existing utility infrastructure and growing urban developments. It's quite possible the sandy soil area had something to do with it, making it easier to install the underground services.
The purpose of the PRS is to reduce the high-pressure gas to a lower and safer pressure in the transmission pipes, making it suitable to distribute locally to homes, businesses and industrial facilities.
Components of a PRS usually include:
1. Inlet Filters - This removes dust, liquids and particles from incoming gas
2. Pressure Regulators - Reduces the gas pressure to the required downstream level
3. Overpressure Protection - Ensures the gas doesn't exceed the safe downstream level
4. Heaters - (Not installed at all stations) Prevents gas from freezing when the pressure drops
5. Meters - Measures the gas flow for monitoring and billing purposes
6. Control Systems - Automates the regulation of pressure and required safety responses
September 2024 – Contractors DMC Civil win the 2024 WA Earth Awards for Excellence in Civil Construction for the $10-30m project value category, which resulted from their work on the East Perth Power Station’s Pipeline Project. Commissioned by ATCO Gas Australia, the project involved constructing a 7.5km high-pressure steel gas pipeline and had presented a unique set of challenges. This led to DMCivil implementing a range of innovative construction techniques, setting a new standard by potentially improving productivity on all future pipeline projects.
April 2023 - DevelopmentWA demolish the former ATCO gas pressure reduction station.
October 2022– ATCO complete the relocation their gas network infrastructure to a temporary gas pressure reduction station (PRS) relocated on Western Power land, adjacent to the Banks Reserve car park. It will remain there for approximately three years.
