URGENT UPDATE: Iberdrola Australia has officially launched its state-of-the-art 65MW/130MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) in Smithfield, western Sydney, New South Wales, ahead of schedule. The groundbreaking facility is designed to bolster energy resilience and efficiency in the region, marking a significant milestone in Australia’s energy transition.
The Smithfield BESS, completed on December 1, 2023, will provide crucial energy storage capabilities with a duration of two hours. Strategically located approximately 30 kilometers west of Sydney’s central business district, this project complements the existing 123MW Smithfield Open Cycle Gas Turbine Peaker plant, also owned by Iberdrola Australia.
This ambitious project involves the installation of advanced battery and inverter units, medium voltage transformers, and a comprehensive upgrade of the electrical switchboard and SCADA control systems. Enhancements to the 33kV powerline connection, in collaboration with Endeavour Energy, ensure a robust energy network for the growing demands of the region.
Iberdrola’s Smithfield BESS has been recognized as a State Significant Development (SSD) by the New South Wales Department of Planning and Environment. This status underscores its importance as a large-scale development, which undergoes rigorous assessments, including environmental impact statements and public consultations.
ACLE Services, headquartered in Victoria, has been entrusted with the balance-of-plant installation contract, driving the project to completion. This launch is part of Iberdrola’s broader strategy, which recently included securing six long-duration energy storage agreements (LTESAs) in the latest tender round, totaling 1.17GW/11.98GWh.
The Smithfield BESS is poised to have a transformative impact on local energy supply and sustainability efforts. As Australia increasingly pivots towards renewable energy sources, this facility represents a critical step in enhancing grid stability and reducing carbon emissions.
WHAT’S NEXT: The successful operation of the Smithfield BESS will set the stage for future energy projects in the region, as Iberdrola continues to expand its footprint in Australia’s renewable energy landscape. Energy experts and local officials will monitor its performance closely, analyzing its potential to contribute to a more resilient power grid.
Stay tuned for updates as Iberdrola Australia makes strides in renewable energy and storage solutions, shaping the future of energy in New South Wales and beyond.
