The Minns Labor Government has officially opened the Limondale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), powering up Australia’s first eight-hour battery, marking a major step in the transformation of the state’s energy system.

Located near Balranald in south-west NSW, RWE Renewables Australia’s Limondale BESS will play a critical role in strengthening grid reliability by storing excess solar energy during the day and dispatching it during evening and peak demand periods.

Limondale BESS was the first project awarded a Long-Term Energy Service Agreement for long-duration storage under the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap.

The Minns Labor Government is delivering a reliable, affordable energy system that benefits households and communities, strengthens the economy and cuts climate pollution. The Roadmap will keep the lights on and put downward pressure on prices.

The Limondale BESS has a total storage capacity of at least 400 MWh, with the ability to provide energy for over eight hours, making it the longest-duration battery operating in Australia.

The battery works because it has a charging capacity of 100 MW and a 50 MW discharge capacity, which allows the system to sustain electricity supply over extended periods.

Developed by RWE Renewables Australia with support from Tesla, Beon Energy Solutions, Lumea and Transgrid, the BESS comprises 144 Tesla Megapacks and is adjacent to the 314 MW Limondale Solar Farm, meaning the battery connects to existing infrastructure.

Minister for Energy and Climate Change, Penny Sharpe said:

“It’s exciting to cut the ribbon on this Australian-first battery, which will get more renewable energy into the grid, placing downward pressure on bills.

“Batteries like this one mean we don’t waste an electron of solar and can power the state with renewables.”

RWE Renewables Australia CEO, Daniel Belton said:

“We are incredibly proud to deliver the Limondale BESS. As one of Australia’s most significant battery storage projects, it represents a major step forward for long-duration energy storage and contributes to a more reliable, resilient, and sustainable energy system.

“Limondale BESS strengthens grid stability, supports energy security and enables greater integration and efficient use of renewable energy across the network.

“I would like to sincerely thank our dedicated RWE team, our project partners, the New South Wales Government, and ASL for their outstanding collaboration and commitment in safely bringing this ground-breaking project to completion.”