Construction has officially begun on a major battery energy storage system at the Stanwell Power Station in central Queensland, marking a critical step in the state's transition to renewable energy. The $747 million project, led by the Queensland government-owned Stanwell Corporation, aims to significantly enhance the state's energy storage capacity and support the shift from coal-fired power to sustainable energy sources.
The new battery system is being developed as part of the Stanwell Power Station's transformation into a Clean Energy Hub, reflecting the Queensland Government's commitment to renewable energy. With a capacity of 300 MW and a four-hour duration, the Stanwell battery will be the largest committed battery project in Queensland. The project is supported by $448.2 million in funding from the Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund.
The Stanwell battery will comprise 324 Tesla Megapack 2XL units, with installation being overseen by the state-owned company Yurika. Once completed, the system is expected to be operational by mid-2027, providing a substantial boost to the region's energy storage infrastructure and helping to stabilize energy supply as the state increases its reliance on renewable sources.
This project is part of a broader initiative by Stanwell to develop 5 GW of energy storage capacity by 2035, positioning the company as a key player in Queensland's renewable energy transition. In addition to the Stanwell battery, Stanwell is also advancing the development of the Tarong battery energy storage system near Nanango in southeast Queensland. This 300 MW / 600 MWh project, which is being constructed adjacent to the Tarong Power Station, has reached the halfway point, with all Tesla Megapack units installed and connection to transformers underway. The Tarong battery is expected to commence operations by mid-2025.
Stanwell CEO Michael O’Rourke emphasized the importance of these projects for Queensland's energy future. "Dispatchable energy assets like the Stanwell BESS are essential to a successful transformation of our energy system. This large-scale battery can be charged by wind and solar during periods of peak renewable energy generation and discharged back into the grid during periods of high demand or to maintain grid stability," O'Rourke said. "Our strategic goal is to have 5 GW of energy storage operational by 2035, and this project is a critical component of that vision."
The Queensland Government has positioned this investment as not only an environmental and energy security initiative but also as an economic booster for Central Queensland. The construction phase of the Stanwell battery project is expected to create up to 80 full-time jobs, with six ongoing roles once the battery is operational. The project is also seen as a commitment to the Rockhampton and Central Queensland communities, ensuring continued investment and job creation in the region.
Queensland's Energy and Clean Economy Jobs Minister Mick de Brenni highlighted the government's commitment to public ownership of energy assets, stating, "By doubling the size of this battery, we’ll ensure that Central Queensland will have reliable, long-lasting renewable energy for decades to come. This is the clean economy transition in action."
As Queensland continues to invest in renewable energy and storage solutions, projects like the Stanwell and Tarong batteries are expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply. These initiatives not only support the state's environmental goals but also promise to enhance energy security and economic growth in the region.
Image: Stanwell