Vena Energy has launched construction of its 204MW/408MWh Tailem Bend BESS 3, a standalone battery energy storage system in South Australia. The project, adjacent to the company’s existing renewable facilities, is scheduled for commissioning in 2027 and represents Vena Energy’s third BESS deployment in Australia.

The Tailem Bend site has been a hub of renewable energy development since 2019. It currently hosts a 127MWdc (95MWac) solar PV plant, with an integrated 41.5MWh battery added earlier this year, and a second 118MWdc (87MWac) solar system commissioned in 2023. Tailem Bend 3 will further enhance the site’s energy storage capacity, enabling greater flexibility and grid stability as South Australia aims to achieve 100% net renewable electricity by the end of 2027.

Vena Energy’s first Australian BESS was the 100MW/150MWh Wandoan South project in Queensland, which began commercial operation in 2022 and was the largest battery in the state at the time. The company is also developing additional large-scale BESS projects in New South Wales, including the 400MW Belhaven and 408MW Bellambi installations, as part of its broader Asia-Pacific clean energy portfolio.

The Tailem Bend projects have delivered significant local economic benefits. Half of the workforce on the second phase of solar installation came from the surrounding region, including 10% First Nation community members and 14% female workers. Vena Energy has also conducted outreach and training programmes for local schools and adults to support skills development linked to the new BESS project.

Read the full article for details on Vena Energy’s expanding renewable and storage projects in Australia.