Just last week, Victoria made its own big renewable energy announcement. The state is expediting the construction of a BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) as well. This program is included in a broader A$350 million ($223 million) commitment. First, it aims to capture and store renewable energy produced during the day, so it is available when the demand for electricity is highest. The project is projected to improve energy reliability and save money for residents and businesses throughout the greater region.
The BESS has a remarkable storage capacity of 770 megawatt-hours (MWh). That’s enough clean power to fuel more than 121,000 American homes at the height of electricity demand. The system captures surplus renewable energy produced in the daytime. When their energy use climbs, it feeds that energy back into the electricity grid, increasing their overall efficiency by providing more efficient energy supply through energy production.
Collectively, this application will help generate 55 jobs during the construction period. Once operational, it will be home to five ongoing, permanent positions. The BESS project is one of the existing projects under Victoria’s Development Facilitation Programme, which has recently been extended to include renewable energy projects. This expansion tackles barriers faced by prior renewable energy deployments. Over 20% of these ended up with considerable delays through the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal. These hurdles have proven not insurmountable. With the exception of a few applications, all have eventually been granted approval.
Victoria’s Minister for Planning, Sonya Kilkenny, said the project was crucial in opening up renewable energy for all Victorians.
“Renewable energy is the cheapest form of new build energy available – that is exactly why we are fast-tracking decisions on projects like this, to provide cheaper and cleaner energy for more Victorians.” – Victoria Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny
Minister for Energy, Lily D’Ambrosio, highlighted the initiative’s role in bolstering energy supply and facilitating the transition toward a more sustainable future.
“This Battery Energy Storage System is another way we are shoring up energy supply and assisting our transition to 95% renewable energy by 2035.” – Victoria Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio
The 350 megawatt‐hour Battery Energy Storage System must be in commercial operation by no later than May 12, 2025. This project is another big step towards cementing Victoria as Australia’s renewable energy powerhouse. It will give predominantly Black residents more affordable and stable access to electricity.