Burdekin Battery Project: Grid Stability Focus
A significant 2,000 megawatt hour battery project in Queensland, known as the Burdekin battery project, has decided to pause its solar component to concentrate on enhancing grid security and reliability. Situated close to the Clare solar farm, the project could potentially reach a capacity of 500 MW and 2,000 MWh. Initially designed to incorporate a solar farm supported by a battery, the project has now pivoted towards prioritising a large-scale battery system, with the possibility of integrating solar energy at a later stage.
Developers Ace Power and Japan’s Osaka Gas commenced work on this project back in 2015, securing approval from the Burdekin Shire Council for a solar farm with designated space for potential future battery storage. Recently, a modification request was submitted to the council to reflect the project’s new focus on a standalone Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), with the solar component being considered as a separate and optional addition in the future.
Grid Reliability and Energy Storage
The Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) application specifically addresses the battery installation, a new substation, and a 1.4 km connection to the nearby transmission line, excluding any solar elements. The primary objective of the project is to store surplus renewable energy generated during the day and release it during evening peak periods. Additionally, the project aims to enhance grid reliability while contributing to the stabilisation of network frequency and voltage levels.
Development and Partnerships
The proposed project will be situated on predominantly grazing farmland near sugarcane plantations. Ace Power acquired the project in 2021 and is collaborating with Osaka Gas to advance its development. Ace Power is actively involved in various renewable energy projects across Australia, including the Nebo, Townsville, Raglan, and Yabulu battery projects in Queensland.
Overall, the Burdekin battery project’s strategic shift towards prioritising grid security and reliability underscores the growing importance of energy storage solutions in supporting the integration of renewable energy sources into the electricity grid.
