The Yanco Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project is an approved 250 MW (1,100 MWh) battery energy storage project, located around 1km south-west of Yanco. The project will connect into the adjacent Yanco Substation and help strengthen the local electricity network, and contribute to more stable power prices for homes and businesses across the Riverina.
Following a comprehensive assessment through the Independent Planning Commission (IPC), the Yanco BESS was approved on 2 October 2025.
Project Update – SSD Modification
ACEnergy submitted a State Significant Development (SSD) Modification application for the approved Yanco BESS in February 2026. This modification was approved in May 2026.
Why was a modification proposed?
Following the project’s approval in October 2025, detailed design and engineering progressed. This work identified the need for a small number of minor refinements to ensure the project is delivered safely, efficiently, and in accordance with current technical and design standards.
The SSD Modification involves minor refinements to road intersection upgrade designs, site access arrangements, internal site layout, and the alignment of underground electricity cabling connecting the project to the Yanco substation.
Importantly, the modification does not change the approved energy storage capacity, operating hours, project lifespan, or overall purpose of the project.
What is changing?
As part of the proposed modification:
-
the project footprint would increase slightly (less than 1 hectare); and
-
there is no change to:
-
the approved battery capacity (250 MW / 1,100 MWh),
-
the operational characteristics of the facility,
-
construction or operational workforce numbers, or
-
the project’s connection to the existing Transgrid substation.
-
Updated technical assessments were submitted with the application to confirm that all impacts remain within acceptable limits.
Community and environmental impacts
The proposed changes are minor in nature and are not expected to result in any new or increased impacts on nearby residents or the environment.
To ensure transparency, we’re providing this update on the SSD Modification application on this project page. Consultation with relevant government agencies continues as part of the assessment process.
