The Central BESS

The Central BESS is a proposed 500MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Bouldercombe, Central Queensland. The project will support the state's clean energy transition and secure reliable, affordable power for Queenslanders.  

Once operational, the Central BESS will be one of Queensland's largest Battery Energy Storage Systems.  

Key Technical Specifications:

• Location: Bouldercombe, Central Queensland
• Capacity: 500MW / 1000MWh standalone BESS  
• Connection: Connecting directly to the existing Bouldercombe Terminal Station at 275kV via a new underground cable route.  

Key Benefits of the BESS

Supporting Queensland's Clean Energy Transition

The Central BESS is a pivotal component of Queensland’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. 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.

Storing energy from the grid during times of low demand, and distributing energy back into the grid during times of peak demand, BESS help to stabilise the grid and minimise the risk of power outages, improving the overall reliability of the transmission network.

Enhancing Grid Reliability and Affordability

In addition to its environmental benefits, The Central BESS will play a crucial role in securing reliable and affordable power for Queensland. By connecting directly to the existing 275kV network infrastructure, it can provide critical grid services, such as frequency regulation and peak load management, contributing to a stable and efficient electricity supply.  

This infrastructure will help mitigate the impacts of power fluctuations and outages, aiming to deliver a more dependable energy system for households and businesses. Additionally, by utilising existing transmission lines, we can minimise construction impacts and reduce the need for new infrastructure development

Development Timeline

1. Land Signed: The land for The Central BESS was secured in 2023  
2. Development Application: The development application was submitted in 2024 and is currently being assessed  
3. Connection Agreement: The connection agreement with network operator Powerlink is expected in Q3 2025
4. Construction Start: Construction of The Central BESS is expected to commence in Q3 2025 and will take approximately 24 months.  
5. Energisation: The BESS is expected to be energised by Q4 2027 at which point it will begin providing critical energy storage services to Queensland.

Find Out More

For more information about The Central BESS, please visit www.thecentralbess.com.au/ or reach out to our project team at info@thecentralbess.com.au.

We are committed to keeping stakeholders informed and involved throughout the development and operation of this vital energy infrastructure project.