BREAKING NEWS: Iberdrola Australia has just launched its state-of-the-art 130MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) in Smithfield, New South Wales, ahead of schedule. This critical energy infrastructure, boasting a capacity of 65MW, will play a pivotal role in enhancing energy reliability for western Sydney.
The Smithfield BESS, located approximately 30km from Sydney’s central business district, will integrate with the existing 123MW Smithfield Open Cycle Gas Turbine Peaker plant. This co-location marks a significant step towards a more resilient energy grid in the region, as the BESS is designed for a two-hour energy discharge duration.
This project, approved as a State Significant Development (SSD) by the New South Wales Department of Planning and Environment, involved an extensive review process ensuring environmental compliance and community consultation. SSD approvals are reserved for large-scale developments that meet state criteria, indicating the project’s importance.
The Smithfield BESS features advanced battery and inverter units, upgraded medium voltage transformers, and enhancements to the existing 33kV electrical switchboard. Additionally, it includes substantial improvements to the powerline connection with Endeavour Energy, bolstering the overall infrastructure.
Iberdrola has partnered with Victoria-headquartered ACLE Services for the balance-of-plant installation and construction management, underscoring a commitment to local industry involvement. This launch caps off a remarkable year for Iberdrola, which has secured multiple projects under the latest long-duration energy storage (LDES) tender, amounting to 1.17GW and 11.98GWh in total capacity.
The immediate impact of this project cannot be overstated. As Australia pushes towards renewable energy targets, the Smithfield BESS will provide crucial support for grid stability, especially during peak demand times. Residents and businesses in the region can expect enhanced energy security, a significant development in light of ongoing discussions about energy reliability amidst climate challenges.
What’s next? As Iberdrola continues to expand its energy storage capabilities, stakeholders will closely monitor the performance of the Smithfield BESS. The results could pave the way for similar projects across the country, shaping a sustainable energy future for Australia.
Stay tuned for more live updates as this story develops. Share this news to keep your networks informed about Australia’s dynamic energy landscape!
