A large-scale battery project planned next to the existing Mt Piper Power Station near Lithgow is continuing to progress through development and investment stages, with EnergyAustralia proposing one of the biggest battery energy storage systems in regional NSW.
The Mt Piper Battery Energy Storage System would be built on land adjacent to the current power station and use existing transmission infrastructure already connected to the site.
The project has approval for up to 500MW / 2,000MWh of battery storage capacity. EnergyAustralia is currently focusing on an initial 250MW / 1,000MWh stage of the project, with a final investment decision expected in 2026.
In practical terms, the battery would store electricity during periods of lower demand or high renewable generation and discharge it back into the grid during periods of higher demand.
According to EnergyAustralia, the battery would be capable of supplying enough electricity to power around 320,000 homes and businesses for up to four hours.
The NSW Government approved the project in 2024, describing it as an investment of around $1 billion. The project is expected to create construction jobs during the build phase, which is anticipated to take between 18 and 24 months once construction begins.
The battery would be located south of the existing Mt Piper Power Station on previously disturbed industrial land already owned by EnergyAustralia.
Battery storage systems are becoming increasingly common across Australia as more renewable energy projects connect to the electricity grid. Because renewable generation such as solar and wind can fluctuate depending on weather conditions, batteries are used to store excess power and help maintain supply during peak demand periods.
The Mt Piper project is one of several major energy-related developments either proposed or underway across the Central West region, alongside pumped hydro, wind, solar and transmission infrastructure projects.
As with many large infrastructure projects, the proposal has generated community discussion around issues including visual impact, industrial development, fire safety and the changing nature of the region’s energy industry.
EnergyAustralia says the battery would include fire protection systems and would operate under state planning and safety regulations.
The company has also entered into a voluntary planning agreement with Lithgow City Council, which includes funding commitments intended for community projects and infrastructure.
The project remains subject to final investment and construction timing decisions.
More information can be found on the official project page at https://www.energyaustralia.com.au/about-us/what-we-do/new-energy-projects/mt-piper-battery-energy-storage-system
Photo Credit: Ground view – Artist impression of the proposed Mt Piper BESS. EnergyAustralia.com.au
