Overview
The Victorian Big Battery is a 300 MW grid-scale battery storage project in Geelong, Australia which stores enough energy in reserve to power over one million Victorian homes for 1/2 an hour.
The battery has a 250 MW grid service contract with AEMO under direction from the Victorian Government. It supports Victoria’s clean energy transition and secure reliable, affordable power for Victorians.
Battery
The 300 MW / 450 MWh battery consists of 210 Tesla Megapacks covering an area smaller than the football oval at Geelong’s GMHBA Stadium
Location
The Victorian Big Battery is located next to AusNet Services’ existing Moorabool Terminal Station, approximately 13km northwest of Geelong.
The site was chosen to allow the battery to connect into the existing high voltage transmission hub which means the power can be sent quicky to where it is needed.
Benefits
Project Lifecycle
1
Site Selection
We undertake research & early negotiations with landowners for options to lease or purchase sites that show potential for hosting renewable energy assets.
2
Feasibility
We create preliminary designs & initiate feasibility studies to identify site constraints. We commence early engagement with Traditional Owners, neighbours, local council and the community. We hold community information sessions locally.
3
Planning & Approvals
Extensive studies & surveys are undertaken to create detailed project design before submitting a Development Application (DA) to the Victorian Government. Ongoing community and governmental consultations help refine project plans. We initiate grid connection enquiries.
4
Pre-Construction
If the DA is approved, we conduct a procurement process to appoint a construction contractor. Grid connection agreements & energy contracts get finalised, and our focus shifts to securing financing from lenders. A networking session is held for local jobseekers, suppliers & businesses to discuss upcoming opportunities.
5
Construction
The site mobilises, local suppliers & jobseekers are appointed, and civil, mechanical & electrical works commence. The project becomes a reality as the construction team builds and commissions the asset.
6
Operations
We maintain the asset for at least 25 years to ensure strong energy generation & revenue optimisation. Our community benefit-sharing program begins contributing to local initiatives.
- We Are Here
7
Decommissioning or Site Renewal
We decide on whether to continue operations or decommission the site. New construction works or site rehabilitation is undertaken.
Neoen’s battery is a fantastic achievement as Victoria transitions to our legislated targets of 50 per cent renewables by 2030 and net zero by 2050.
Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change
Neoen has been contributing to Australia’s energy transition with 100% renewable energy since 2012.
With a balanced portfolio of wind, solar and big battery projects, we are aiming to achieve 10 GW by 2030. We own and operate all of the projects we build (rather than developing them to be sold) and as long-term neighbours we are committed to sharing the benefits with surrounding communities.
This dedication to community and environment has made us a renewable energy developer of choice in Australia.