Two new big batteries energised on grid, underlining speed and scale of storage rollout

Two new big battery projects have been energised on Australia’s main grid in the past few days, underlining the speed and scale of the storage rollout in Australia.

In South Australia, Pacific Blue announced that its Clements Gap battery, located next to the wind farm of the same name, had been energised, meaning it can now start preparations for the commissioning process and the roadmap to full output.

The Clements Hill battery features Trina Storage batteries totalling 60 megawatts (MW) and 120 megawatt hours (MWh) and is due to be complete in early 2026. It was a winner in the first auction held under the federal government’s Capacity Investment Scheme.

In Victoria, AusNet on Monday announced it has energised the Pine Lodge Terminal Station enabling the connection of Valent Energy’s 250MW, two-hour battery to the Victorian Transmission Network. 

“Delivered with a strong focus on safety, efficiency and collaboration, the project was completed ahead of schedule and within budget – a testament to the dedication of everyone involved,” AusNet said on LinkedIn. 

The project is owned by Valent Energy combines the resources of Hong Kong-based Gaw Capital and European based energy storage developer BW Group.

It is chaired by former Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) boss and one time political candidate Oliver Yates, and plans to spend at least $2 billion rolling out at least seven big battery projects and one solar PV project in coming years.

The Pine Lodge BESS is located near Shepparton in Victoria.

See Renew Economy’s Big Battery Storage Map of Australia for more information.

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