Grid-Scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
In progress.
A program of large-scale batteries across the Ausgrid network.
Ausgrid is supporting the connection of a program of large-scale batteries called Battery Energy Storage Systems, or BESS, across our network in Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle and the Hunter region.
Why we need battery storage
As NSW moves to more renewable energy sources like solar and wind, we need storage to keep the power flowing when the sun isn't shining and the wind isn't blowing.
NSW needs six times more energy storage before 2030. Connecting grid scale BESS is one of the ways Ausgrid is helping to meet that need: storing energy when there's plenty of it and releasing it back into the network when it's needed most.
Each of the proposed BESS sites will be located next to an existing Ausgrid substation, on land already owned by the Ausgrid Group. This means the batteries can connect to the network more efficiently, without needing to build new transmission lines.
Our proposed sites
The Ausgrid Group will seek planning approval for each BESS project. Once approved, the batteries will be built and operated by PLUS Grid Storage (PLUS GS), a specialist energy storage company, under an agreement with Ausgrid.
BESS projects are currently progressing at the following locations:
- Steel River, Mayfield West
- Homebush
- Rothbury
- Rathmines
- Berkeley Vale
- Kurnell
- Wyong
- Kurri Kurri
Each project is being planned and assessed individually, and sites are at different stages of the approvals process.
What are the benefits?
Connecting large-scale batteries to our existing network helps to:
- Keep power reliable: batteries store energy when there's excess and release it when demand is high, keeping supply steady even when renewable generation varies
- Enable more renewable energy: storage helps smooth out the ups and downs of wind and solar, so more of it can come online
- Reduce the need for new infrastructure by using existing substations and land, reducing the cost and community impact of building new transmission lines
- Make electricity more affordable by using existing infrastructure more efficiently, which keeps costs down for customers over time
- Create local jobs: construction and ongoing operation of each site supports employment in the local community
Planning and approvals
Planning approval must be obtained for each BESS site. Each project is assessed as State Significant Development under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW) — the formal planning pathway for major infrastructure projects valued at $30 million and above.
The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) assesses and approves each project.
The process includes:
- Ausgrid submits a Scoping Report
- DPHI sets assessment requirements
- Ausgrid prepares an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
- The EIS is publicly exhibited — community members can make formal submissions
- DPHI assesses the application and makes a determination
Formal submissions can be lodged at: planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects
Get in touch
We're committed to working with neighbours, local communities and stakeholders as each project is planned.
Early community feedback helps shape the design before detailed planning is finalised.
We want to hear from you, whether you have questions, concerns or ideas about a project in your area.