Skip to main content

First phase of Australia’s biggest BESS now operational with 350 MW/700 MWh

The Waratah Super Battery, now operational in New South Wales, is the largest battery on Australia’s energy grid, providing 350 MW/700 MWh of capacity with a full potential of 850 MW/1,680 MWh by the end of 2025 (guaranteed continuous active power capacity of at least 700 MW/1,400 MWh). Located at the former Munmorah coal-fired power station, it serves as a shock absorber to prevent blackouts and stabilize the grid during disruptions like bushfires or power surges. The battery monitors 36 transmission lines in real time, responding within seconds to overloads and supporting energy transmission across NSW. It will also reduce the need for additional transmission infrastructure, potentially lowering electricity prices. The system includes a control mechanism that signals paired renewable energy sources to balance supply. With 700 MW reserved for grid protection during summer, the battery supports the transition from coal to renewables, ensuring energy security as coal plants retire. The project is part of a broader trend of increased investment in large-scale batteries in Australia.