Conpower

In anticipation of the closure of the Eraring Power Station in 2025 and to secure a dependable energy supply for New South Wales, the NSW Government is leading the implementation of the Waratah Super Battery (WSB) project. This initiative serves as a System Integrity Protection Scheme (SIPS), strategically engineered to function as a resilient ‘shock absorber’ against unforeseen power surges, such as those triggered by bushfires or lightning strikes.

Taking charge as the network operator, TransGrid will spearhead the coordination efforts for the project’s execution. Akaysha Energy was appointed as the SIPs service provider and will be responsible for completing construction of the battery storage system. The station boasts a steadfast capacity, ensuring a continuous active power supply of no less than 700 MW and an accessible energy storage capacity exceeding 1400 MWh, dedicated to delivering the SIPS Service.

Consolidated Power Projects Australia Pty Ltd (CPP) was awarded the Balance of Plant contract, which includes engineering, procurement, and construction of the 330/33kV substation, 330kV overhead line, and 850MW BESS Balance of Plant (BoP). Powin, an equipment manufacturer based in the US, will supply both the battery hardware and software.

CPP’s senior project manager for Waratah, Stephen Brannigan explains that the purpose of the project is to ensure NSW has an ongoing reliable energy source. “WSB is being built to ensure NSW continues to have reliable energy supply following the anticipated closure of the Eraring Power Station in 2025. The WSB project is a System Integrity Protection Scheme (SIPS) designed to act as a ‘shock absorber’ in the event of any sudden power surges, including from bush fires or lightning strikes.”

The Super Battery is revolutionizing energy accessibility across New South Wales with its pioneering virtual transmission solution. By tapping into untapped capacity within the existing transmission system, this groundbreaking initiative empowers electricity consumers in key demand centres including Sydney, Newcastle, and Wollongong to harness more energy from existing generators.

The battery is anticipated to have a substantial physical footprint, projected at 850 MW / 1680 MWh, marking it as one of the largest committed battery storage systems globally, both in power output and energy storage capacity. The deliberate oversizing not only accommodates the natural degradation of the battery over time, but also safeguards the security of supply.

Anticipated to catalyse up to $1 billion in private investment towards new energy storage facilities and associated network enhancements, the WSB project heralds a new era of sustainable energy development. Moreover, it promises substantial capital infusion into the vibrant Hunter and Central Coast regions, fostering economic growth and vitality.

Positioned as a Priority Transmission Infrastructure Project (PTIP) under the Electricity Infrastructure Investment Act 2020, the WSB project stands as a trailblazer in energy infrastructure development. It marks the inaugural PTIP to be actualized under the Act, embodying a transformative milestone in NSW’s energy landscape. Construction is due to commence in June 2023.