EVO Power wins contract for “solar soaking” utility batteries across network

Ergon Energy, a subsidiary of Energy Queensland, has awarded contracts to Melbourne-based energy storage specialists Evo Power for the installation of battery storage systems across six different sites in 2023.

Each site – the locations of which were undisclosed – will get one of EVO’s AMP Series utility scale battery energy storage systems (BESS), and construction of the first 4.5MW/10 MWh facility will commence in the third quarter of 2023.

According to EVO Power all six batteries will provide direct network support to the grid.

The move is part of the Queensland Government’s push to rapidly bolster renewable energy across the state and turn it into a renewable superpower. Energy Queensland is a wholly state government-owned group of electricity distribution, retail and energy services.

“The planned battery systems are another step closer to supporting Queensland’s target of 70% renewables by 2032 in a safe and reliable way,” said Peter Price, Energy Queensland head of engineering.

“The flexibility of batteries to soak up solar when the sun is shining and shift that energy into the evening to support night time loads is a key enabler to the renewable energy transition.

“And by placing the batteries in the distribution network, close to the roof top solar, ensures that energy generated locally stays locally, maximising benefits for customers, retailers, transmission and distribution networks.”

EVO Power will be responsible for the design, engineering, integration and supply of the batteries, as well as grid modelling support, commissioning and training to ensure the smooth delivery of the project.

EVO Power Group CEO Jamie Allen described the Energy Queensland partnership as a ‘coming of age’ for the company.

“Having previously focused on large commercial and industrial projects, we’ve now got our sights set firmly on utility-scale projects as well,” he said. “With the recent opening of our offices in the USA, EVO Power has established a solid platform both locally in Australia and globally.

“The energy industry is evolving at a lightning pace, so there’s never been a better time to lead the pack with superior quality, reliable and sophisticated battery technology backed by local support.”