Banpu to acquire Kerang BESS from ACE Power

Transmission towers and associated infrastructure at site with blue sky overhead
Kerang BESS site (Image: ACE Power)

ACE Power has sold its ‘ready to build’ 103MW/206MWh grid-forming Kerang Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to Banpu Energy Australia.

To be located in Victoria’s Loddon Valley, 5km south of Kerang, the battery will support to the Victorian electricity network by boosting system strength and resilience.

Related article: EnergyAustralia sells Wooreen ESS equity share to Banpu

The system is intended to operate by charging when energy is abundant—typically during midday hours—and discharging during peak demand periods in the morning and evening. This will enhance overall grid balance, increase competition in the energy market, and help to reduce electricity costs for Victorian consumers.

In parallel, ACE Power is also developing the adjacent Kerang Solar & BESS Hybrid project which received 5.3.4A connection approval in July this year and is expected to reach financial close shortly after Kerang BESS.

ACE Power founder and managing director Andy Scullion said, “We are delighted to have reached agreement with Banpu Energy Australia on the sale of Kerang BESS. This is a fantastic outcome for the network in northern Victoria after three years of work from our team.

Related article: ACE Power seeks federal approval for four-hour battery

“Using grid-forming inverter technology, Kerang BESS will provide stronger support to the Victorian electricity network by boosting system strength and resilience. This will also unlock additional capacity for other renewable technologies such as solar and wind to come online.”

ACE Power will continue to support Banpu with achieving financial close which is scheduled to occur later this year.

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