The government of Western Australia has sealed one of the nation's largest renewable energy agreements, committing to the acquisition of two colossal battery storage systems valued at over $1 billion.
These state-of-the-art battery storage facilities are slated for installation in Kwinana, an industrial hub located approximately 40 kilometers south of Perth, and Collie, a town known for its coal production in Western Australia's southwest. The primary objective of these systems is to enhance the storage capacity of renewable wind and solar energy, ensuring a stable power supply during periods of peak demand.
Under this substantial agreement, a total of 950 EnerC Plus containerized liquid-cooling battery systems and 232 inverters will be supplied.
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Premier Roger Cook emphasized that these contracts signify a strategic investment in cleaner energy production and represent a significant stride towards Western Australia's ambitious target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Cook stated, “Battery energy storage systems will play a key role in our decarbonization plans, storing excess renewable energy generated during the day and discharging it during periods of high demand.”
He further highlighted the broader implications of this move, saying, “We're putting WA on the path to becoming a global green energy superpower, which is good for jobs, good for the environment, and will keep our economy strong into the future.”
The Kwinana Battery Stage Two project is poised to deliver a substantial 200 megawatts of power, accompanied by an impressive 800 megawatt hours of energy storage. Construction on this project commenced in June and is anticipated to reach completion by the end of 2024, generating employment opportunities for approximately 160 individuals.
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Meanwhile, the Collie battery installation is set to be Western Australia's largest, boasting an impressive 500-megawatt power capacity and a formidable 2000 megawatt hours of energy storage. This project is anticipated to provide employment for around 500 workers during the peak construction phase.
The aggregate energy storage capacity of 2800 megawatt hours is estimated to be sufficient to supply on-demand energy to approximately 175,000 households. This landmark endeavor underscores Western Australia's commitment to advancing renewable energy infrastructure, contributing significantly to a sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
