AEMO provides connection approval for another two grid-forming big batteries

Renewable and battery storage developer Ace Power says it has received connection agreements with the Australian Energy Market Operator for two new grid forming big battery projects, one in Victoria and another in north Queensland.

The approvals have been given to the 103 MW, two hour Kerang battery in Victoria, and to the 200 MW, two hour Yabulu battery north of Townsville. Both will connect to the network near existing sub-stations and close to neighbouring solar projects, the planned Kerang solar farm and the planned Yabulu solar project.

Senior Development Manager & BESS Lead, Shane Humphreys, said ACE Power was delighted with the outcome.

“We are very proud as ACE Power to have achieved our first two 5.3.4A&B approvals from AEMO in close succession,” said Shane Humphreys, the senior development manager and battery storage lead at Ace Power.

“These are among the earliest approvals nationwide for BESS to operate in grid forming mode from the date of commissioning. This outcome is the culmination of over 12 months work, and considerable engineering input from our respective consultants as we navigated an evolving landscape in respect of how grid forming inverter technology is assessed by AEMO and the NSPs.”

Humphreys says that both projects will operate in grid forming mode which will contribute positively to network stability on a 24/7 basis by providing some of the critical grid services – such as inertia and system strength – traditionally provided by coal and gas generators.

This, in turn, is expected to unlock further capacity for renewable connections in their surrounding areas.

Humphreys says the company hopes to start construction on both projects within the next six months.

See also: RenewEconomy’s Big Battery Storage Map of Australia