The NSW Government has approved a major large-scale battery project valued at over $1 billion for a site near Lithgow.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully says the new battery will play a key role in keeping the lights on during peak demand periods.
The project is expected to create 177 jobs during construction, with developer EnergyAustralia to invest up to $2 million into the Lithgow City LGA through a Voluntary Planning Agreement.
“With a $1 billion price tag, this battery is among the biggest in Australia,” said Mr Scully.
“It stands ready to inject major capital investment, create jobs and provide Lithgow Council with $2 million to invest in local community projects.
“Large-scale batteries are crucial for our state’s energy future. They help store renewable energy, making sure that we have a reliable power supply even when the sun isn’t shining, or the wind isn’t blowing.
“This project not only supports our transition to cleaner energy but it also strengthens our energy security and resilience. Investing in these batteries means a more sustainable and dependable energy system for everyone.”
The Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is among the biggest in Australia and will store excess energy from the electricity grid during non-peak periods. The battery will then ramp up quickly when households need power, during the busy morning and evening times.
The $1 billion Mt Piper BESS will utilise EnergyAustralia’s existing electricity infrastructure near Lithgow and will store up to 500MW / 2,000 MWh to power over 200,000 homes when needed.
The Mt Piper battery adds to the State’s growing network of large-scale batteries to support the energy transition as coal-fired power retires.
Under the Minns Government, there have been 30 renewable projects approved, including 14 large scale batteries.
Find out more information about Mount Piper BESS.
