There are a range of methods and technologies to store energy. This can include batteries, flywheels, compressed air, thermal and pumped hydro.

Coupling energy storage with renewable energy provides stability services and emergency back-up power if a shortfall in energy is predicted. This helps overcome intermittent power generation (i.e. solar power is only generated when the sun shines), and can provide energy when it is needed.

South Australia has the world’s first big battery. In 2017 and following an Expression of Interest process, the South Australian government announced Tesla in conjunction with Neoen to build a 100 MW/129 MWh lithium-ion battery in Jamestown. In 2020 Neoen then completed a 50 MW/64.5 MWh expansion of the battery after being granted $15 million from the South Australian government’s Grid Scale Storage Fund. The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) also committed $8 million in grant funding. The battery delivers power to the National Electricity Market, providing system security services.

The Government of South Australia supports energy storage projects through programs and funding. The $50 million Grid Scale Storage Fund and South Australia’s Virtual Power Plant are key components of the South Australian government’s energy policy.

Existing Energy Storage Projects:

Learn more about energy storage on the Clean Energy Council website.