Neoen Launches Australia’s Largest Battery Energy Storage System

• Neoen SA unveils Australia’s largest battery storage facility, the Collie Battery, boosting energy resilience and supporting a clean energy future with innovative Tesla technology.

Neoen SA has launched the 219-MW/877-MWh first phase of its Collie Battery in Western Australia, which will become the country’s largest battery energy storage facility. The project commenced operations earlier in October, ahead of schedule, featuring 224 Tesla Megapack 2XL units. This battery is integral to the planned 1-GW/4-GWh Collie complex, initially conceived in 2021 and approved in 2022, with a contract secured with the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) last summer.

The subsequent phase, Collie Battery Stage 2, will comprise 341 MW/1,363 MWh using 348 additional Megapack units and operate under a four-hour service contract with AEMO. The Collie battery is strategically designed to discharge power during evening peaks, addressing challenges posed by the retirement of coal power sources, increased rooftop solar adoption, and rising energy demands in the region. Neoen’s CEO highlighted that the company is nearing a total storage capacity of 5 GWh in Australia, with plans for further expansion.

How will the Collie Battery address energy demands and support renewable integration in Australia?

• Energy Demand Management: The Collie Battery is crafted to meet growing energy demands, particularly during peak usage times. By discharging stored energy during evening hours when electricity consumption surges, it helps stabilize and meet the grid's needs.
• Support for Renewable Energy: As Australia transitions towards renewable energy sources, the Collie Battery plays a crucial role in integrating solar and wind energy into the grid. It captures excess energy generated during the day, particularly from solar panels, and makes it available for use during times of low generation, thereby enhancing grid reliability.
• Grid Stability and Resilience: The capacity of the Collie Battery to store and quickly release energy contributes to overall grid stability. It acts as a buffer against fluctuations in energy supply and demand, ensuring a reliable power supply even as traditional fossil fuel sources phase out.
• Reduction of Carbon Footprint: By facilitating the use of renewable energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the Collie Battery aligns with Australia’s climate goals and contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the energy sector.
• Economic Benefits: The construction and operation of the Collie Battery create job opportunities and stimulate local economies. During its development, it provides employment in various sectors, including construction and energy management.
• Partnerships and Innovation: In collaboration with Tesla for the provision of battery storage technology, the project underscores the role of public-private partnerships in advancing energy solutions. This fosters innovation and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies in energy storage systems.
• Scalable Capacity: The design of the Collie Battery allows for future expansions, positioning it as a flexible solution that can adapt to changing energy needs and renewable integration demands in Australia’s evolving energy landscape.
• Regulatory Support: The establishment of contracts with the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) underscores a commitment from regulators to integrate energy storage solutions into the national grid effectively, facilitating a smoother transition to a more sustainable energy system.
• Long-term Vision: The advancement of the Collie Battery is part of a broader vision for energy resilience in Australia, which anticipates a future where renewable energy sources predominately power the grid. This strategic approach ensures that energy needs are met sustainably and efficiently.