BESS project provides long-duration battery for NSW

The NSW Government has officially opened the Limondale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), which powers a long-duration, eight-hour battery.

Located near Balranald in south-west NSW, RWE Renewables Australia’s Limondale BESS will play a role in strengthening grid reliability by storing excess solar energy during the day and dispatching it during evening and peak demand periods.

The BESS was the first project awarded a Long-Term Energy Service Agreement for long-duration storage under the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap.

“It’s exciting to cut the ribbon on this Australian-first battery, which will get more renewable energy into the grid, placing downward pressure on bills,” said Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe.

“Batteries like this one mean we don’t waste an electron of solar and can power the state with renewables.”

The Limondale BESS has a total storage capacity of at least 400 MWh, with the ability to provide energy for over eight hours. The battery has a charging capacity of 100 MW and a 50 MW discharge capacity, which allows the system to sustain electricity supply over extended periods.

Developed by RWE Renewables Australia with support from Tesla, Beon Energy Solutions, Lumea and Transgrid, the BESS comprises 144 Tesla Megapacks and is adjacent to the 314 MW Limondale Solar Farm, meaning the battery connects to existing infrastructure.

“We are incredibly proud to deliver the Limondale BESS,” said RWE Renewables Australia CEO Daniel Belton. “As one of Australia’s most significant battery storage projects, it represents a major step forward for long-duration energy storage and contributes to a more reliable, resilient and sustainable energy system.

“[The project] strengthens grid stability, supports energy security and enables greater integration and efficient use of renewable energy across the network.

“I would like to sincerely thank our dedicated RWE team, our project partners, the New South Wales Government, and ASL for their outstanding collaboration and commitment in safely bringing this groundbreaking project to completion.”

Image caption: Limondale BESS official opening. Image: Supplied.