A big battery project in Victoria’s north-east has received state government approval, bringing 1GWh of storage capacity one step closer to the grid.
The 500MW/1000MWh Kiewa Valley BESS, to be developed by Trina Solar, will be located near the Dederang Terminal Station, approximately 3km from Dederang township. The $453 million project has been fast-tracked under Victoria’s Development Facilitation Program.
When complete, the BESS will be capable of storing excess renewable generation during low-demand periods and dispatching it during evening peaks, supplying power for up to 172,000 homes annually.
Premier Jacinta Allan met with Trina Solar representatives in Beijing to confirm the project, describing China as the world’s “clean energy superpower installing 100 solar panels every second”.
The battery system will be connected to the 330kV network via an on-site substation. The 15-hectare development includes transformers, inverters, internal access roads, O&M facilities, a switchyard, and parking.
According to Trina Solar’s project fact sheet, early-stage environmental assessments aligned the development with local landscape and cultural values. Approval conditions will address bushfire risk, noise, and visual impact.
Construction is expected to generate 50 direct full-time equivalent jobs, along with 10 contractor roles during operations. Ancillary benefits include increased revenue for local businesses through accommodation and services demand.
Trina Solar has over 8GW of renewable projects delivered globally and operates local offices in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, and Brisbane. While best known for solar PV modules, it also manufactures trackers, electrolysers, and BESS units.
The Kiewa Valley BESS joins 18 other projects accelerated under Victoria’s planning scheme, which together represent more than $5 billion in investment and potential peak demand storage for 1.3 million households.