Queensland’s state-owned Stanwell Corporation has inked a deal with Australian-based iron flow battery maker Energy Storage Industries Asia Pacific (ESI) for a 150MW long-duration battery energy storage system (BESS) using fully recyclable flow battery technology made locally in Queensland.
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ESI recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Stanwell to establish a 1MW/10MWh iron flow battery pilot project adjacent to Stanwell Power Station. The pilot will confirm the viability of iron flow batteries for medium duration energy storage (8-12 hours) and confirm the viability of deploying the technology at scale.
The duration makes the batteries ideal for supporting and firming the electricity network during periods of high demand and low renewable energy generation. Iron flow batteries use an environmentally friendly electrolyte solution to store and discharge electrical energy.
ESI managing director Stuart Parry said the pilot project with Stanwell was a first in Australia for iron flow batteries—a grid-scale and environmentally friendly energy storage solution.
“Queensland is at the forefront of battery technology development and this transaction reinforces the state’s reputation as a leader in the renewable energy economy, while also training the workforce of the future,” Parry said.
“ESI is already establishing a $70 million facility in Maryborough to manufacture iron flow batteries and will manufacture the electrolyte solution in Townsville, supporting jobs and investment in the regions.
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“We look forward to working with Stanwell to deliver this pilot project as an important step in deploying sustainable energy storage to help underpin Queensland’s energy transformation.”
