Vena Energy has celebrated the successful commissioning of its Tailem Bend 2 Hybrid Project located 90km south-east of Adelaide in South Australia.
This landmark greenfield solar and battery energy project represents the largest utility-scale hybrid renewable facility with a single connection to the National Electricity Market (NEM).
The final milestone of the Tailem Bend 2 Hybrid Project is a newly commissioned 41.5 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), which complements an existing 87MW solar farm, achieving a total capacity of 128.5MW.
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The project’s cutting-edge design allows the solar and battery components to operate independently while sharing a single grid connection—a groundbreaking feature for utility-scale renewable energy projects in Australia.
Vena Energy head of Australia Owen Sela said, “This hybrid configuration redefines operational flexibility. Our system enables simultaneous export of solar power to the grid and independent operation of the battery for energy export or storage. By optimising existing grid infrastructure, we are enabling renewable energy to be dispatched when needed, delivering cost-effective power to South Australia.
“This ability to store surplus energy and meet high-demand periods advances our mission to accelerate the energy transition, while ensuring communities benefit from a smarter, more resilient energy system that supports the state’s 2030 emissions targets and Australia’s net zero future.”
Tailem Bend 2 features advanced technologies, such as bi-facial solar panels mounted on tracking systems which capture both direct and reflected sunlight, enhance the solar farm’s efficiency.
The project demonstrated strong local engagement across both facilities. The solar farm construction saw approximately 50% of its workforce sourced from the local region, including Tailem Bend, Murray Bridge and surrounding areas, with an additional 35% from within South Australia during peak construction periods.
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The solar workforce also achieved notable diversity outcomes, with 10% of workers identifying as First Nations and 14% being female. The BESS construction, while involving a smaller specialised team, maintained a commitment to local content with 25% of its workforce, including key management roles and civil contractors, sourced from South Australia.
Vena Energy has also secured approval for another Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Tailem Bend. This will enable up to 204MW/408MWh of renewable energy storage, sourced directly from the grid.
