Alinta Energy to build 100 MW big battery to help secure South West WA grid

Alinta Energy will build a 100 MW two-hour big battery at its Wagerup Power Station to help stabilise and backup the grid in South West Western Australia.

The company announced its plans today, appointing Shanghai Electric Power Design Institute Co. Ltd (SEPD) and Sunterra Pty Ltd to deliver the battery by early 2025. 

Ken Woolley, Alinta Energy Chief Development Officer, said he was pleased with how quickly the project had come together.

“This project is a great example of how Alinta Energy, Western Power, AEMO and our key supply partners are rapidly mobilising to ensure the electricity system in South West WA has the smoothest transition to renewables possible.

“The battery will connect to existing high voltage infrastructure at the Wagerup Power Station, and is scheduled to be commissioned during the second half of 2024.    

“We’re excited about the contribution the Wagerup battery will make to stabilising the South West WA grid, and providing backup capacity when needed,” he said.  

A spokesperson for SEPD and Sunterra said, “we’re excited to have been awarded the great opportunity to construct the state-of-the-art battery energy storage system for Alinta Energy and the WA community.

“We are committed to employing local companies and serving the community. We will ensure the project is delivered with the highest standards of quality, safety and innovation,” the spokesperson said.

Works at the site, located around 120km south of Perth, will commence immediately.