Community Engagement Session for the Glenrowan Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)

On Saturday, 15th March 2025, over 30 local residents gathered at the Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall to engage in a community session about the proposed Glenrowan Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). This event marked an important milestone in the project's development and provided an opportunity for residents to learn more about the project and its potential impact on the community.

The session, which took place from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, was designed to inform the public about the BESS and give them a platform to ask questions, share concerns, and provide feedback on the proposal. Attendees had the chance to meet the project team, explore detailed information about the project, and engage in meaningful discussions about the benefits and challenges of the project.

What is a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)?

The Glenrowan BESS is a state-of-the-art, rechargeable battery system designed to support the power grid by storing energy when there is excess production from renewable sources, such as solar and wind. This excess energy is then stored for later use and can be quickly discharged back into the grid during periods of high demand or when renewable energy generation is low. In doing so, the BESS helps to balance supply and demand, ensuring a reliable and consistent flow of electricity.

Location and Capacity

The proposed BESS will be located at 84 Glenwest Lane, Glenrowan West, adjacent to the existing substation and electrical infrastructure. The site, which spans approximately 10 hectares (ha) of undeveloped land, is strategically chosen to complement the existing power network and minimize disruption to the surrounding area.

Designed with advanced battery technology, the Glenrowan BESS will have an impressive capacity of 400 MW / 1600 MWh. This will provide up to 4 hours of energy storage, making it a vital component in ensuring grid stability and reliability. The system will harness cutting-edge technology to efficiently store and release energy, helping to support the transition to renewable energy sources.

Proposed Timeline

The project is currently in its early planning stages, with detailed planning studies already underway. The next major step involves submitting the designs and plans to the Department of Transport and Planning for approval. After securing the necessary permits, construction is expected to commence in late 2026, with the goal of having the BESS fully operational in the near future.

A Collaborative Approach

The community session at the Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall was a key part of the project’s ongoing efforts to keep the public informed and involved in the decision-making process. With over 30 community members in attendance, the session fostered valuable conversations about the potential impacts and benefits of the BESS.

Attendees were encouraged to ask questions and share their thoughts on how the project might affect the local community. The project team provided detailed information about the environmental considerations, safety measures, and the long-term benefits that the BESS will bring to the region. These included the potential to create new job opportunities, enhance grid resilience, and contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions through the increased use of renewable energy.

Looking Ahead

As the Glenrowan BESS project moves forward, ongoing community engagement will remain a priority. The team is committed to maintaining transparent communication with local residents and stakeholders throughout the planning, approval, and construction phases.

We look forward to continuing this dialogue and ensuring that the Glenrowan BESS project delivers positive outcomes for both the local community and the broader energy network.

For more information or to get involved in future sessions, please feel free to reach out to our team at community@akayshaenergy.com