Elaine BESS

Elaine BESS Artists Impression

Project Timeline

Timeline item 1 - complete

Development - Site Selection

During this phase, potential sites for the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) are identified and evaluated based on criteria such as proximity to existing electrical infrastructure, environmental impact, land use, and community acceptance. Once the optimal site is chosen, this milestone is marked as complete.
Timeline item 2 - complete

Development - Feasibility

In this phase, a detailed assessment is conducted to determine the technical, economic, and environmental viability of the project. This includes analysing energy needs, grid connection possibilities, financial modeling, and risk analysis. Upon confirming that the project is feasible, the milestone is considered complete.
Timeline item 3 - active

Development - Planning & Approvals

This phase involves preparing and submitting planning applications to relevant authorities. It includes community consultation, environmental impact assessments, and seeking approval from local councils and other regulatory bodies.
Timeline item 4 - incomplete

Development - Post Planning Application

After the Planning Application is lodged, this phase focuses on responding to any feedback or conditions set by the authorities. The project team ensures all requirements are met and finalises preparations for the delivery phase. Completion occurs when the planning application is successfully processed.
Timeline item 5 - incomplete

Delivery - Pre-Construction

In this current phase, the project team prepares for the start of construction. This includes finalizing designs, securing contractors, and arranging logistics. The transition to actual construction is carefully planned, and the project is now on track for physical implementation.
Timeline item 6 - incomplete

Delivery - Construction

This phase will involve the physical building of the BESS, including site preparation, installation of equipment, and connection to the grid. Safety, quality control, and timelines are crucial. This milestone will be reached once the BESS is fully built.
Timeline item 7 - incomplete

Operational

After construction, the BESS will become operational, providing energy storage and discharge as required by the grid or local energy needs. Monitoring and maintenance are ongoing to ensure efficiency and safety. This milestone will be reached once the BESS is fully operational.
Timeline item 8 - incomplete

Decomissioning

At the end of the BESS's operational life, this phase involves safely dismantling and removing the equipment, restoring the site, and responsibly disposing of materials. This ensures minimal environmental impact and compliance with regulatory standards.

The proposed Elaine Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) will have a capacity of 300MW/1200MWh and provide up to 4 hours of energy storage.

Designed to store electricity as part of the national electricity grid the BESS will help support Australia’s energy transition as a cost effective way of integrating renewable energy and ensuring that energy remains reliable and affordable.

It is proposed to be located 5km north west of Elaine, and directly adjacent to the Elaine Terminal Station.

As a responsible company that champions low-carbon growth, Akaysha strongly considers the environment where we work and live. It is a critical part of our project development to carefully choose appropriate sites within our host communities.

The Elaine BESS has a number of characteristics that make it an ideal site.

Proximity to Elaine Terminal Station reduces the need for additional high voltage power lines and visual impacts
Nearest residential properties located >1km away
Relatively flat topographical conditions
Minimal native vegetation removal required
Minimal environmental impacts and ground disturbance
Adjacent to the electricity grid
Located in the South West Victorian Renewable Energy Zone (REZ)