AGL Energy Gets on With 850 MW Multi Site Battery Storage Project

AGL Energy has lodged the scoping report for a new battery storage systems of up to 500 MW capacity to be built alongside its existing coal plant.

Sydney headquartered AGL Energy has formally kicked off on its plans for the transformation of the ageing Liddell coal-fired power station, lodging initial development (scoping report) documents with the NSW Department of Planning, Industry, and Environment (DPIE), for a new battery storage systems of up to 500 MW capacity to be built alongside the existing plant.

The Liddell Battery is part of the 850 MW multi-site integrated battery system AGL targets to develop by FY24 as announced in its FY20 Results and is in support of its Climate Statement commitments to continue to invest in new sources of electricity supply.

AGL Chief Operating Officer, Markus Brokhof said over the past decade battery technology has evolved rapidly and is now at an investment level that allows AGL to lead the transition to decarbonisation in Australia.

“Battery storage is critical to enhance the energy system’s flexibility and support the ongoing integration of renewable sources to the NEM,” he said. “It removes one of the biggest limiting factors of renewables, by providing electricity anytime but particularly during peak demand.”

“For a long time AGL led the way in renewable investment. As more renewables come into the energy system, we need to make sure we are supporting the development of storage and firming capacity, like grid-scale batteries,” he added.

AGL’s support of grid-scale battery projects include Wandoan (100 MW), Maoneng (4 x 50 MW) and Dalrymple (30 MW).

“We believe battery technology is now at a level that allows AGL to lead in Australia’s transition to a smarter and more efficient energy future,” Brokhof said.

Planning applications are also being developed for a battery connected to Torrens Island Power Station site in Adelaide with other sites under consideration. To support the delivery of this target the firm has invited select suppliers to tender for the procurement of the grid-scale batteries included in this system.

“We believe Australia has an opportunity to be a low-emissions, energy superpower in the years to come which is what we have set out to achieve through the delivery of our commitments under our Climate Statement,” he added. “We are committed to helping create an energy future that is smart, efficient and affordable for our customers. This project will not only enable those outcomes but in doing so set the stage for a battery era.”