The ACT Government’s Development Application to create a grid-scale battery in Williamsdale, Tuggeranong, has been approved.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr announced last year that Eku Energy, a global specialist energy storage business, would develop, build, and operate the large-scale battery storage facility.

The 250-megawatt (MW), 500 megawatt-hour (MWh) battery energy storage system (BESS) will store enough renewable energy to power one-third of Canberra for two hours during peak demand periods, and cost several hundred million dollars.

Construction will begin later this year.

Batteries have been installed at nine government sites: Belconnen Parks Depot; Gungahlin Family and Child Centre; Allara Depot; Kambah Depot; Ron Reynolds Centre; Chifley Community Hub; Ngunnawal Bush Healing Farm; Cotter Depot; and Greenway Ambulance Station.

“The batteries capture energy generated from rooftop solar panels which will help power the sites and will reduce government spend on electricity, benefitting the broader network during peak electricity consumption times,” Mr Barr said.

Two batteries will be installed at Mt Stromlo High School at and 255 Canberra Avenue, Fyshwick in early 2025.

Three medium sized neighbourhood-scale batteries will be installed in Casey, Dickson, and Fadden through the Community Batteries for Household Solar Program, a partnership with the Commonwealth Government and Evoenergy. The battery operator will be selected later this year process.

“The Big Canberra Battery project will provide renewable energy security across the electricity grid, help the ACT grow its renewable energy sector, provide more local employment opportunities, and deliver a positive financial return for the Territory,” Mr Barr said.

“Battery storage technology is a critical component of our net-zero emissions future as we continue to lead the nation on climate action.

“The ACT has delivered 100 per cent renewable electricity since 2020, and initiatives like this build on that achievement and demonstrate the viability of renewable energy in supporting a robust, affordable, and sustainable energy grid.”