Wedoany.com Report-Feb 25, ACEN Australia has started building the first large-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) in the New England region of New South Wales. The project is part of the company’s 720 megawatt (MW) New England Solar development. The BESS has a capacity of 400 megawatt-hours (MWh) and includes advanced grid-forming inverters to ensure system strength, stability, and network security services, according to ACEN.

Tim Greenaway, ACEN Australia’s Head of Construction and Engineering, stated that geotechnical and design tasks are nearing completion. Work on the electrical infrastructure to link the battery to the grid is progressing steadily. “We expect the civil and base electrical work for the BESS to begin over the next month or two, ready for the delivery of the battery modules in second half of the year,” Greenaway said.

The site will feature an upgraded switching yard to connect both the battery system and the second phase of the solar project to Transgrid’s transmission network. A 250 MVA electrical transformer will also be installed to support the battery setup. The 400 MWh battery will operate alongside the Stage 1 solar project and is designed to deliver 200 MWh of energy over a two-hour duration.

The broader project has received approval for a total storage capacity of 1,400 MW over two hours. This development marks a significant step in enhancing energy infrastructure in the region, combining solar power with advanced storage technology to meet grid demands efficiently.

The construction timeline aligns with preparations for integrating the battery modules later in 2025, ensuring the facility can contribute to energy stability in New South Wales. The project reflects a coordinated effort to expand renewable energy capabilities while maintaining a reliable network connection through Transgrid’s system.