Waratah BESS Image Slider

Artist Impression Post Construction

Construction Progress Images


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 modelling, and risk analysis. Upon confirming that the project is feasible, the milestone is considered complete.

  • Timeline item 3 - complete

    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 - complete

    Development - Post DA Lodgement

    After the Development Application (DA) 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 DA is successfully processed.

  • Timeline item 5 - complete

    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 - active

    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 Waratah Super Battery, developed by Akaysha Energy for the Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo NSW), is set to become the largest battery project in the Southern Hemisphere and the most powerful in the world.

Located approximately 100 km north of Sydney and 25 km south of the retiring Eraring coal-fired power station, this Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) will span an area of 138,000 square metres, equivalent to more than 8 AFL fields.

The BESS is contracted to provide at least 700 MW of continuous active power and 1400 MWh of usable energy storage capacity. This storage system will play a critical role in stabilising the electricity grid by operating within a System Integrity Protection Scheme (SIPS), enabling more energy to flow from existing power generators to meet the growing demands of NSW’s families and businesses.

With a physical capacity of 850 MW / 1680 MWh, the BESS will not only support grid stability but also offer additional capacity for trading in the electricity market, providing opportunities for further revenue generation. By releasing stored energy during off-peak times, the project will help reduce electricity costs for NSW consumers.

The Waratah Super Battery represents a key milestone in NSW’s transition to a more sustainable, reliable, and affordable energy future.


On 21st February 2023 the Waratah Super Battery Project was granted Infrastructure Approval (SSI-48492458) by the NSW Minister for Planning. Following this approval, Akaysha Energy then began an extensive consultation process with key project stakeholders to develop Management Plans appropriate to the unique Waratah project. Key Management Plans that have been approved by the NSW Planning Secretary to-date include:

Pre-Construction Reports

Dilapidation Survey Report

Independent Environmental Audit Reports – Construction Phase

First Independent Environment Audit (June to Dec 2023)

Second Independent Environment Audit (Jan to June 2024)

Map of Waratah Super Battery

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