The Joel Joel BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) project is set to be located approximately 23 kilometres east of Stawell in Victoria’s Joel Joel. By providing a reliable and flexible storage solution, it will help balance supply and demand, integrating more renewable energy into the grid and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The project will also provide critical grid services such as frequency regulation and peak load management.
Located next to the existing Bulgana Terminal Station, the project will connect directly into the transmission network, removing the need for new transmission infrastructure. This significantly reduces potential impacts on the surrounding environment and local communities.
The Joel Joel BESS reached a major development milestone with the approval of its planning permit on August 8, 2024.
In September 2025, the Joel Joel BESS was awarded under the Australian Government’s Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS), recognising the role it will play in the renewable energy transition. Under the CIS, the project will prioritise local content and procurement opportunities, working with regional suppliers to ensure the investment delivers lasting economic benefits.
The project will also provide enduring community benefits, establishing a Community Benefit Fund to support initiatives such as scholarships, training programs, and STEM education pathways. ACEnergy is working with the Northern Grampians Shire Council and the Barengi Gadjin Land Council to develop employment pathways, subcontracting opportunities, and long-term benefit sharing options.
