The first battery units at Western Australia’s Collie battery energy storage system have been installed, marking a significant step forward for the state’s renewable energy sector.
The $1.6 billion project, spearheaded by Synergy and backed by the Cook Labor Government, is set to become one of Australia’s largest battery systems.
Upon completion in 2025, it will boast a capacity of 500 megawatts (MW) with 2000 megawatt hours of storage, capable of powering 785,000 average homes for four hours.
WA’s Premier Roger Cook said the energy transition in the State is setting up WA’s economy for the future.
“The Collie battery will be one of the biggest in Australia, and means we can deliver clean, affordable and reliable energy for WA for decades to come,” he said.
“Importantly, this big battery keeps Collie at the heart of our energy system, supporting local jobs and ensuring a strong future for the town.”
According to the State Government, the installation of the first 80 units out of a planned 640 brings notable economic benefits to the region.
The construction phase is creating approximately 500 jobs in Collie, providing a substantial boost to the local economy.
Once operational, the Collie battery will work in tandem with Synergy’s existing systems in Kwinana, capturing excess solar and wind energy during the day.
This stored energy will then be used to stabilise the grid and support the continued adoption of renewable energy sources in the South West Interconnected System.
The WA Labor Government said it has invested $5.4 billion in the energy transition to date, as part of its renewable energy plan.
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