The Stanwell Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Project in Queensland, Australia, has reached a major construction milestone as all Tesla Megapack units have now been delivered and installed onsite. This development marks the halfway point in the creation of one of the largest battery projects in the state.
Tesla Megapacks Complete Delivery
A total of 324 Tesla Megapacks, each weighing 38 tonnes and measuring eight meters long, have been transported from the Port of Brisbane to the Stanwell Power Station near Rockhampton. The transportation covered approximately 660 km, highlighting the scale and logistical effort of the project.
These Megapacks collectively form a 300 MW / 1,200 MWh battery system capable of storing energy for up to four hours, making it a critical component of Stanwell’s 2.8 GWh battery firming portfolio.
Supporting Queensland’s Energy Transition
Stanwell CEO Michael O’Rourke emphasized the importance of large-scale battery storage for Queensland’s energy future.
“Batteries provide reliable, dispatchable energy and are essential as our energy system diversifies. They allow us to continue delivering affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for Queensland, our customers, and the National Electricity Market,” O’Rourke said.
The Stanwell Battery is designed to store excess energy during periods of high generation and release it when demand peaks or generation dips. Its rapid response capability will help stabilize the grid in real time, complementing existing generation assets.
Construction Progress
With all Megapacks now onsite, work has shifted to:
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Connecting units to medium-voltage transformers
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Installing high-voltage underground conduits and feeder cables
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Preparing for the arrival of the second switch room
Construction began in 2024, with commercial operation scheduled for May 2027. The project represents a $747 million investment in energy storage infrastructure in Central Queensland.
Safety and Reliability
Stanwell has incorporated robust fire safety measures, advanced monitoring systems, and substantial buffer zones to ensure the battery system operates safely. These measures make the Stanwell Battery one of the safest large-scale energy storage systems in the country.
Factsheet: Stanwell Battery BESS Project
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Location: Stanwell Power Station, near Rockhampton, Queensland
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Total Capacity: 300 MW / 1,200 MWh
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Number of Megapacks: 324 Tesla Megapack 2XL units
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Unit Weight: 38 tonnes
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Unit Length: 8 meters
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Project Start: 2024
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Expected Operation: May 2027
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Investment: $747 million
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Primary Purpose: Firming capacity for renewable energy and grid stabilization
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Key Feature: Can charge during high generation periods and discharge during high demand or low generation
The Stanwell Battery represents a significant step forward in Queensland’s energy transition, ensuring reliable, dispatchable, and sustainable energy for the state while supporting the integration of renewable energy projects.
Australia’s has been making major strides in the development of battery energy storage facilities across the country. Recently Acen Australia, a subsidiary of the Philippines-based Ayala Corporation begun the construction of a 200 MW/400 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) at its New England Solar Farm near Uralla, New South Wales.
