A new 300 MW battery will soon charge Victoria’s power grid.

Origin Energy has issued a Notice to Proceed for a groundbreaking 300 MW / 650 MWh battery at Mortlake, in the state's west. 

This project, developed in conjunction with Fluence as the EPC contractor, should help enhance grid stability and support the influx of renewable energy sources in the region.

Funded in part by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) through a $24 million contribution from a total project cost of around $400 million, this initiative is part of a broader $176 million Large Scale Battery Storage Funding Round aimed at bolstering the nation's grid infrastructure. 

The Mortlake battery project, located near the existing Mortlake Power Station, is designed to provide essential grid forming and stability services, addressing the needs of the South West Renewable Energy Zone's expanding wind and solar farms.

Using cutting-edge grid forming inverters supplied by SMA, the project underscores the industry's shift towards innovative energy solutions. 

Darren Miller, CEO of ARENA, emphasised the critical role of large-scale batteries in the transition to clean energy technologies. 

“As traditional forms of energy generation are phased out, new clean technologies are required to take their place,” he said. 

“Large scale batteries can play a significant role in providing system stability services, particularly when fitted with advanced grid forming inverters.”

This initiative marks the fifth project to be financially committed under ARENA's Funding Round, with three more anticipated across Australia. 

The funding round has previously supported eight grid scale battery projects, including the notable Riverina Battery at Darlington Point and the Hornsdale Power Reserve in South Australia, showcasing the potential of grid-forming inverter technology to enhance system reliability.

Energy experts are keenly observing the developments, as the successful implementation of these projects could set new standards for grid stability and renewable energy integration nationwide.