Eraring battery project powers ahead

The second stage of the large-scale battery on the site of Eraring Power Station is underway.

State Member for Lake Macquarie Greg Piper joined Origin CEO Frank Calabria and key technology and construction partners at a sod turning event to mark the official commencement of construction recently.

In late July, Origin announced it had approved the second stage development of the large-scale battery, committing to invest approximately $450M.

When combined with the stage 1 battery investment, Origin is spending over $1B on battery storage at the site.

The second stage will add a 240 MW / 1030 MWh four-hour duration grid-forming battery to the 460 MW / 1073 MWh two-hour duration first stage battery development already under construction, which is anticipated to come online at the end of the 2025 calendar year.

Origin CEO Frank Calabria said it was another important step in Origin’s transformation of the Eraring site so it could continue contributing to the reliability and security of energy supply in the region and support the ongoing growth of variable renewable energy in the grid.

“Large scale batteries like the one we are developing at Eraring will play an important role in the energy transition, charging when renewables are abundant and discharging when needed, such as during the evening peak,” he said.

“When fully commissioned in early 2027, the combined energy storage of stage one and stage two of the Eraring batteries will be over 2 GWh.

“This is just one way Origin is pursuing its ambition to lead the energy transition.”

Piper said Eraring Power Station had provided more energy than any other power station in the state for many years and had also been a source of many jobs supporting families and the local economy.

“The power station, with its connection to the power grid, is perfectly positioned to be part of the energy future of the state,” he said.

“I’m keen to see that continue along with the ongoing contribution to the local economy long after coal generation ends.

“I’m pleased that Origin has backed in our community with the significant investment they’ve made on both stages of the Eraring large-scale battery and look forward to visiting again when it is operational.”

The Eraring battery project received initial planning approval from the NSW Department of Planning and Environment in May 2022.

Battery equipment will be supplied by Finnish technology group Wärtsilä, Balance of Plant Design and Construction services will be provided by Enerven, a subsidiary of SA Power Networks, while Lumea (the commercial arm of Transgrid) will complete the dedicated HV substation works.

Eraring is Australia’s largest power station, supplying about a quarter of NSW’s energy needs.

It is Origin’s only coal-fired generator.