Fulham Solar and Battery Project Update
Octopus Australia, a renewable energy fund manager and developer, has officially started the construction of the Fulham solar and two-hour battery project. The project, valued at $300 million, consists of an 80MW solar component and a 64MW, 128MWh battery component. Funding for the project has been secured through equity from super fund Rest, the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC), and clients of Westpac Private Bank.
The Fulham project is significant as it is among the first and largest “DC-couple” solar batteries, allowing solar generation to flow directly to the battery through a DC/DC converter, reducing conversion losses and connection costs. The battery management technology will be supplied by Finnish group Wärtsilä, which will also offer a long-term service agreement to ensure the project’s ongoing performance and reliability.
Located on 400 acres of farmland in Fulham, near Sale in Victoria’s Gippsland region, the solar and battery project has already secured a power purchase agreement from the Victorian state government. A ceremonial sod-turning event at the site was attended by Lily D’Ambrosio, the Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources.
“The successful close of Fulham Solar Farm and Battery marks a significant advancement in our mission to accelerate Australia’s energy transition,” stated Sonia Teitel, co-managing director of renewables Australia for Octopus Australia. “This project showcases our ability to bring together institutional capital, government backing, and cutting-edge technology to develop renewable assets that offer long-term benefits to our communities and investors.”
Monique Miller, the Chief Investment Officer, Renewables, for the CEFC, highlighted that the Fulham setup will enable the battery to charge directly from the solar farm during sunny periods and supply electricity to the grid when needed to power homes and businesses.
The project aims to involve local businesses, tradespeople, and apprentices during construction, as well as utilise locally sourced materials. Construction is projected to be finalised, and the project fully operational, by 2027.
Following the Fulham project, Octopus Australia’s future plans include the development of the $850 million Blind Creek solar farm and battery in New South Wales and the $800 million standalone Blackstone battery in Queensland, both set to commence construction this year.
Monique Miller reiterated the importance of the Fulham project in decarbonising the energy sector and emphasised the role of regional Australia in transitioning towards a low-emissions future.
Joshua S. Hill, a Melbourne-based journalist with extensive experience in reporting on climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles, has been covering these topics for over 15 years. His work has been featured in Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012.
