Stage 2 of WA big battery project to generate 160 construction jobs

The second stage of Western Australia’s grid-scale battery energy storage system in Kwinana is now under construction. 

The State Government has committed $625 million towards the development of the Kwinana Battery Energy Storage System 2 project, which will deliver around 288 shipping container-sized battery modules along with 72 inverter units. 

The inverters will use new-generation technology to support grid stability through electricity storage when demand is low and deliver it back into the grid when demand rises. 

“This big battery features new technology and will strengthen the reliability of the power supply to WA’s main electricity grid. 

“WA is unique in its energy security because we are not connected to other networks. 

“Our energy management sets us apart from the rest of Australia. 

“By investing in renewable energy and battery storage solutions, this Government is safe-guarding the long-term resilience and flexibility of our electricity network,” Energy Minister Bill Johnston said. 

Approximately 160 jobs are set to be created during the construction phase of Stage 2. 

Once up and running in late 2024, Stage 2 will provide up to 200MW of energy capacity and around 800MWh of energy storage – four times the capacity from Stage 1 which was switched on last month. 

Stage 2 map (source: Synergy)

The Kwinana Battery Energy Storage System 2 project is being built on the three-hectare site of the former Kwinana Power Station, adjacent Stage 1. 

The Western Australian Government is investing $3.8 billion towards the delivery of renewable energy infrastructure, including a 500MW battery energy storage system in Collie that is still subject to the submission of development application later this year. 

“My Government is getting on with delivering our plan for cleaner, reliable and affordable energy for Western Australia. 

“The start of construction on WA’s second grid-scale battery energy storage system is an important milestone in WA’s energy transformation. 

“WA is a leader in the uptake of residential solar energy, and these big batteries help to ensure our energy system remains reliable as we transition away from coal-fired power. 

“It is particularly fitting that we’re building the infrastructure of future at the site of the old Kwinana Power Station – keeping the Kwinana industrial strip front and centre as our energy system transitions to a new future,” Premier Roger Cook said. 

Grid-scale battery energy storage projects are important initiatives to the State Government’s Energy Transformation Strategy as well as its commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. 

The delivery of the Kwinana Battery Stage 2 project is overseen by Synergy. 

Source: Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; Roads & Infrastructure Australia; Renew Economy; Synergy; Energy Magazine