Neoen has completed a 50MW expansion at the Hornsdale power reserve in Australia, increasing capacity at the battery storage project by 50% to 150MW.
The work was carried out in partnership with Tesla, the South Australian government and the Australian government through the CEFC and ARENA.
Neoen said the increased storage capacity will further enhance its ability to stabilise the grid, avoid price volatility in the market and reduce the risks of blackouts.
Testing will now start of the battery’s capacity to deliver grid-scale inertia services, the company said.
Neoen Australia managing director Louis de Sambucy said: “We are thrilled to announce the completion of the expanded 150MW Hornsdale Power Reserve less than one year after its launch.
“This achievement was made possible through the dedication of the project team including our ElectraNet and AEMO counterparts, and with the ongoing support of our partners Tesla, the South Australian government, the Australian government through the CEFC and ARENA.
“With this expansion and the commencement of grid-scale inertia testing, Neoen continues to lead the way in battery storage innovation and reinforces its contribution and commitment to South Australia’s 100% renewable energy target.”
South Australian Minister for Energy and Mining Dan van Holst Pellekaan said: “Our A$50m Grid Scale Storage Fund is making power more affordable and secure for households, including through this project, the first large demonstration in the world of how batteries can provide system strength similar to traditional power generation.
“This is a cutting edge service which will help address our historic system security challenges and allow us to adopt more renewable energy.”
Neoen chief executive Xavier Barbaro said: “Neoen’s Hornsdale power reserve remains a beacon of global innovation and collaboration, and we will continue to build on this experience to deliver new world-leading projects that integrate renewable energy and storage for the benefit of industry and consumers.
“We look forward to continuing to deliver clean, efficient and cheaper renewable energy for all Australians.”