An artist’s impression of the Williamsdale Battery Energy Storage System
22 November 2024
In brief:
- The ACT Government is building a big battery in Williamsdale.
- Construction has begun, in partnership with Eku Energy.
- This project is part of larger efforts to make Canberra a cleaner, greener city.
Construction has begun the Williamsdale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).
The Williamsdale BESS is part of the ACT Government’s Big Canberra Battery project.
The beginning of construction is an important milestone in the ACT's journey toward a net-zero future.
The Williamsdale BESS sits within the Evoenergy distribution network.
It is expected to be operational in early 2026.
A unique partnership
The ACT Government has partnered with global energy storage leader Eku Energy to deliver the project.
In a revenue-sharing model, the ACT Government will receive a portion of the revenue generated from the BESS’s participation in the National Electricity Market. This ensures financial benefits will flow back into the community.
In return, Eku Energy will receive quarterly payments from the Territory over the next 15 years.
“Our partnership with the ACT Government on the Williamsdale Battery Energy Storage System reflects Eku Energy’s commitment to advancing clean energy solutions in the region,” Eku Energy CEO Daniel Burrows said.
“By bringing together the right expertise and partners, we have successfully moved from concept to construction, further strengthening Canberra’s pathway to a more sustainable energy future.”
Powerful renewable energy
The Williamsdale BESS is a large-scale 250megawatts (MW) battery.
It will store enough renewable energy to power one-third of Canberra for two hours during peak demand.
This provides the region with:
- long-term energy security
- improved grid stability
- more resilient infrastructure
- new local jobs
- new investment in clean technology.
The Big Canberra Battery project will extend further, with smaller batteries being delivered across the ACT.
Find more details on the Big Canberra Battery project on the Everyday Climate Choices website.
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