Origin Energy has officially commenced construction on the second stage of its Eraring battery project, set to become one of the largest in Australia. This initiative aims to replace the country’s biggest coal generator located at the same site.
The first stage of the Eraring battery, featuring a capacity of 460 MW and approximately 1,073 MWh of storage, is already underway and is expected to be operational by the end of 2025. This timeline aligns closely with the planned closure of the coal generator.
The second stage will add 240 MW and 1,030 MWh of capacity, with a smaller connection point but extended storage capability. It is anticipated to go online in early 2027, coinciding with the coal generator’s new closure schedule, which may extend further due to state government backing.
“Today marks another significant step in transforming the Eraring site,” said Origin Energy CEO Frank Calabria. “This transformation will enhance the reliability and security of energy supply in the region while supporting the growth of renewable energy.”
The $1 billion project will provide over 2 gigawatt-hours of combined storage upon completion, positioning it among the largest battery facilities in the nation. The evolution of battery storage is evident, with facilities expanding from the initial 150 MWh Tesla big battery at Hornsdale to the upcoming Waratah Super Battery, which will boast 1,650 MWh.
Australia’s largest battery project, the 2,240 MWh Collie battery, is also under construction in Western Australia, with its first stage of 867 MWh recently launched.
Numerous large-scale batteries are either operational, under construction, or planned at former coal power station sites, including Hazelwood, Loy Yang, Liddell, and others. A competing project, a 2,200 MWh eight-hour battery in northern New South Wales, is also expected to be completed around the same time.
Local member for Lake Macquarie, Greg Piper, highlighted the importance of the Eraring site for job creation and economic support in the community. “The power station’s connection to the grid positions it perfectly for the state’s energy future,” he noted. “Today’s announcement is a crucial step towards sustaining the local economy beyond coal generation.”
The battery equipment will be supplied by Finnish technology group Wärtsilä, which is believed to be securing its largest battery contract globally. Enerven, a subsidiary of SA Power Networks, will manage the balance of plant, while Lumea, the commercial arm of Transgrid, will handle the high-voltage substation works.
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