An Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) agreement has been signed by Ark Energy with Elecnor Australia, for the delivery of early works on the Richmond Valley Solar and Battery Energy Storage System project, in New South Wales.
The Richmond Valley Solar and Battery Energy Storage System involves a solar farm with a generation capacity of up to 500 megawatts (MW) and a long-duration Battery Energy Storage System with a power capacity of 275 MW and energy storage capacity of up to 2200 MW over eight hours. The BESS will use LFP (Lithium-iron phosphate) technology.
It is expected to play a key role in supporting New South Wales’ transition to renewable energy.
The scope of the agreement, signed in late September, includes site studies, detailed engineering design for the solar farm, balance of plant design for the battery energy storage system, structural certification, management plans and permitting support.
The signing of the agreement will enable commencement on detailed engineering, interface planning and overall project delivery timelines.
The work is expected to be completed by Q2 2026, ahead of execution of the full EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contract.
The Richmond Valley Solar and Battery Energy Storage System is listed in the Australian Government’s inaugural National Renewable Energy Priority List and was awarded a Long-Term Energy Service Agreement (LTESA) in 2023.