ACEnergy Announces Approval for Joel Joel Battery Energy Storage System, the first project approved under Victoria’s Accelerated Renewable Energy Process

ACEnergy has announced that its 350MW Joel Joel BESS project has become the first project approved under the Victorian Government’s accelerated and streamlined renewable energy planning process.

Located in theShire of Northern Grampians, east of Stawell in the Wimmera region of Victoria, the Joel Joel BESS is larger than any battery currently operating in Australia.

The project not only marks a significant point in Victoria’s clean energy transition and ensures reliable and affordable power for Victorians, but it also represents a major milestone in ACEnergy’s effort to advance renewable energy infrastructure across the country.

With an impressive capacity of 350MW, the battery will play a vital role in balancing supply and demand across the NEM. By storing surplus renewable energy and dispatching it when needed most, the BESS will help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and accelerate the integration of more renewable energy into the grid.

In addition to its environmental benefits, the Joel Joel BESS will provide essential grid services, such as frequency regulation and peak load management, ensuring astable and efficient electricity supply for Victorians. Its connection to the Bulgana Terminal Station and the existing 220kV network will help ensure grid reliability and prevent blackouts.

ACEnergy’sHead of Development, Danny Wilkinson, said:

“This is an exciting announcement and marks a significant step in Australia’s energy transition. The ability to quickly bring together all stakeholders, including community, government and developers to bring clean energy developments to life is necessary to meet our renewable energy targets.

“We are proud to have this project be the first approved through this system and are looking forward to working alongside the Victorian Government to ensure that this process is perfected to ensure a more seamless approvals process in future.”