Both 2-hour duration systems are positioned to deliver peak-demand firming in the period immediately following the closure of coal-fired generation in the Hunter Valley.
The next two projects, at approximately 150MW and 100MW respectively, are at an earlier stage of development.
ESC confirmed that the first 500MW of storage is expected to be operational by early 2029, timed to coincide with the progressive retirement of NSW’s coal-fired generators, with a further 150MW expected online in late 2029. Construction on the Newcastle project is expected to begin in July 2026.
The battery energy storage projects will be built, owned, and operated by PLUS Grid Storage, which operates independently of Ausgrid’s regulated network business, thereby placing the assets outside the regulated asset base. The ESC participated in the investment as part of a senior debt syndicate alongside commercial banks.
ESC CEO Paul Peters said the platform’s location and delivery timeline were decisive factors.
