SEC Victoria, Aware Super, and Birdwood have made investments to help deliver the 1.86GWh Baranduda Electrical Energy Reserve in Wodonga, Victoria.
The 400MW capacity, 4.65-hour standalone battery is located in an industrial precinct next to the Wodonga Terminal Station (WOTS) and directly on the critical Victoria–NSW high-voltage interconnector.
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Once operational in late 2028, Baranduda will be capable of storing enough energy to power more than 200,000 Victorian homes through the evening peak, charging when renewable generation is abundant and discharging when supply is required.
State-owned SEC is investing up to $43 million in capital for a minority stake in the project, alongside a 15-year offtake agreement for 50% of its output to support Victorian Government and commercial energy retail contracts. The remaining 50% will be available on a merchant basis to support the broader Victorian energy market.
The project forms part of the Birdwood Energy Storage and Transition (BEST) platform, a joint venture between Aware Super and Birdwood.
SEC CEO Chris Miller said, “Through our 15-year offtake, SEC is excited to play a critical role in bringing this important project forward for Victorians and securing the delivery of the state’s longest duration, utility scale battery.
“The battery’s strategic location will also bolster Victoria’s energy security by enabling increased electricity flows during periods of high demand, network congestion, or unexpected outages, delivering more affordable, reliable renewable energy for Victorians.”
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Construction on the Baranduda Electrical Energy Reserve is expected to begin in November 2026.
