French renewable energy provider Neoen has selected Australia-based engineering services firm, UGL, to install high voltage infrastructure at its 1500ha Western Downs Green Power Hub in Queensland, 250km west of Brisbane.
UGL will connect a Tesla-supplied battery energy storage system alongside Western Downs’ 460MW solar farm, currently nearing completion. This will allow stored energy to be transmitted into the national grid by the end of 2024.
The Western Downs battery will modernise and stabilise the Queensland grid, supporting its frequency regulation and its transmission network.
The project is partially funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency’s Large Scale Battery Storage Funding Round.
The hub will be Neoen’s fourth battery storage facility in Australian, and brings its portfolio to 776MW in operation or under construction.
Juan Santamaria, Executive Chairman at CIMIC Group, of which UGL is a part, said: “CIMIC is actively pursuing the emerging opportunities driven by the energy transition and we’re proud to again work with Neoen.
“Battery Energy Storage Systems provide critical grid support services, improving the reliability of energy supply for many Australians, as well as helping contribute to meet Australia’s net-zero aspirations.”
UGL Managing Director, Doug Moss, added: “UGL is pleased to work with Neoen, utilising our combined capabilities to ensure the successful delivery of this important energy storage infrastructure.
“We enjoy a strong relationship, having recently completed the construction of the Victorian Big Battery near Geelong in Victoria, at the time the biggest of its kind in the southern hemisphere.
“With our unique capabilities and national footprint, UGL is perfectly positioned to assist our clients and governments in their energy transition journey.”
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