The Yanco Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project is an approved development to be located near the Yanco township. Once operational, the Yanco BESS will enable more efficient use of renewable resources and support the transition to cleaner energy: it will store electricity during period of low demand, and feed it back into the grid at times of high demand. This process enhances grid stability and helps secure affordable and reliable energy for NSW residents and businesses.
The project is strategically located adjacent to existing energy infrastructure in the Leeton LGA. Its proximity to the local substation reduces the need for additional energy infrastructure, helping to bring down prices for consumers and minimise environmental impacts.
Following a comprehensive assessment through the Independent Planning Commission (IPC), the Yanco BESS was approved on 2 October 2025.
Project Update – SSD Modification
ACEnergy has submitted a State Significant Development (SSD) Modification application for the approved Yanco BESS in February 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:
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the project footprint would increase slightly (less than 1 hectare); and
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there is no change to:
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the approved battery capacity (250 MW / 1,100 MWh),
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the operational characteristics of the facility,
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construction or operational workforce numbers, or
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the project’s connection to the existing Transgrid substation.
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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.
Next steps
The SSD Modification application is currently under assessment by DPHI in accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
ACEnergy continues to work with government agencies throughout the assessment process and will provide updates on this webpage as the assessment progresses.
If you have any questions about the project or the SSD Modification, please get in touch via info@yancobess.com.au.
