Conpower

As the energy industry moves toward sustainable sources, and with the entire country set to achieve a net-zero emissions target by 2050, achieving scale and reliability remains a core challenge.

Australia’s renewable energy shift has led to a rising demand for battery energy storage solutions (BESS), and Consolidated Power Projects (CPP) Australia plays a pivotal role as a key installation service provider.

One of CPP’s most ambitious projects to date is the Waratah Super Battery project, for which it has undertaken the installation of the BESS and design and construction of associated balance of plant works, including grid connections, thereby offering a comprehensive solution. The Waratah Super Battery project is a transformative energy solution designed to bolster grid stability and energy reliability for New South Wales.

At the heart of the project is the System Integrity Protection Scheme (SIPS) Communications System, operated by TransGrid, which uses advanced detection technology to monitor network contingencies and faults.

Upon detecting issues, this system coordinates a dual response — signalling paired generators to modulate output and instructing the Waratah Super Battery to discharge, supplying immediate power to meet grid demands.

According to Wallie van Hoving, President of CPP, the Waratah Super Battery is now one of the world’s most powerful BESS’.

“With an active power capacity of over 850 megawatts (MW) and a usable energy storage capacity of 1680 megawatt-hours (MWh), this project represents a significant step forward in renewable energy innovation,” he said.

“It’s an inspiring initiative to be a part of and cements CPP’s status as a leader in the renewable energy sector.”

Beyond its essential function in the SIPS, the battery also participates in the National Electricity Market, contributing its excess capacity to meet broader energy demands.

CPP’s role has been instrumental in realising the technical backbone of the project, overseeing the design and construction of vital infrastructure.

This includes not only the 850MW BESS but also a new 330kV substation and an overhead line connecting to the Munmorah Substation.

Additional milestones include the construction of 12 ring main unit (RMU) buildings, three switchgear buildings, and a dedicated control building — each a testament to the project’s scale and complexity.

Delivering a project of this magnitude is no small feat, particularly given the complexities in both its design and construction.

Since breaking ground on the Waratah Super Battery in June 2023, CPP has leveraged its extensive experience in high-voltage electrical infrastructure to overcome significant engineering challenges.

This expertise stems from their pioneering work in 2017, when CPP, in collaboration with Tesla, constructed the Hornsdale BESS in South Australia — one of the world’s first “big batteries.”

This ground-breaking installation continues to play a crucial role in stabilising South Australia’s electrical grid during peak demand periods.

CPP’s partnership with Akaysha Energy has further strengthened its position in the BESS sector.

Their collaboration extends across multiple projects, including Brendale, Ulinda, and Orana, establishing a synergy that elevates project execution standards and fosters innovation in Australia’s renewable energy landscape.

Nick Carter, CEO and Managing Director of Akaysha Energy, highlighted the partnership’s value.

“Our collaboration with CPP encompasses all aspects of technical design, engineering, construction, and delivery. The Waratah Super Battery project particularly highlighted the importance of this relationship, given its role as both a nation-building initiative and critical transmission infrastructure,” he said.

“CPP’s expertise was instrumental in delivering complex components, from the battery system to the high voltage substation and medium voltage balance of plant. Their attention to crucial elements like design redundancy, cybersecurity, and operational efficiency has been exemplary.”

CPP has established itself as a trusted partner for some of Australia’s largest renewable energy and power transmission companies, offering comprehensive turnkey services across the power utility, renewable energy, industrial, and resource sectors.

The company’s success with the Waratah Super Battery project not only demonstrates its capability to deliver complex energy infrastructure but help meet current demands while anticipating future needs.

The company’s track record in delivering innovative energy storage solutions, from the pioneering Hornsdale project to the record-breaking Waratah Super Battery, helps position it at the forefront of Australia’s energy transition.

As the nation continues its journey toward a sustainable energy future, CPP’s expertise in implementing large-scale BESS proves increasingly valuable, enabling the integration of renewable energy sources while ensuring grid stability and reliability.

This article featured in the December edition of ecogeneration.

View original article here.

Written by Zhian (Fred) Zhang