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EnergyAustralia today announced it is investigating the feasibility of a grid-scale battery of up to 500MW at its Mount Piper power station near Lithgow, which could power more than 200,000 homes for up to four hours during times of high demand.
Daniel Nugent, Head of Portfolio Development at EnergyAustralia, said the battery energy storage system (BESS), which is in its initial feasibility stage, could provide some significant benefits in New South Wales’ clean energy transition.
Mr Nugent said: “Developing a grid-scale battery on EnergyAustralia’s land, adjacent to the existing power generation site, would allow us to utilise existing infrastructure and avoid the need to construct new overhead power lines across private land.
“The project would support future energy security in New South Wales as coal generation retires and more renewables enter the system.
“The BESS would be a welcome addition to the state’s growing list of big clean energy storage projects. If approved, it will also provide an economic boost to the Central West region and help to transform it into a renewable energy hub.
“The Mt Piper battery project is just one of many ways EnergyAustralia is leading the clean energy transition.”
The project will undergo further assessments and community consultation as well as seeking approval through the New South Wales planning process. If approved, the battery could be operational by the end of 2026.