Work has started on the Merredin Big Battery, a new energy storage system designed to strengthen and stabilise the main power grid in Western Australia. This 100-megawatt/four-hour battery will support the ongoing shift to clean energy across the state.
The project is a joint effort between Atmos Renewables and Nomad Energy. The construction is being carried out by GenusPlus. During peak building times, the project will create up to 70 jobs. After it opens, it will provide about five permanent jobs.
The battery is located near the Muja to Kalgoorlie 220-kilovolt transmission line, known as the Goldfields Line. It will help improve energy security for the Wheatbelt and Eastern Goldfields regions. The battery will also make the power line more stable and able to carry more energy as clean energy use grows.
This project adds to other renewable energy efforts nearby, such as the Collgar Wind Farm and the Merredin Solar Farm. The battery is expected to be ready and working by October 2026.
Since 2023, nearly 500 megawatts of battery storage has started operating in the South West Interconnected System. Another 728 megawatts of battery storage is planned to come online in 2025 and 2026. These batteries help reduce energy shortages in the area.
The developers have set up a community benefit fund to support local projects and events. Once the battery is running, $20,000 will be available each year for about 25 years to help the community.
The project also includes plans to hire locally and support education. It will offer opportunities for First Nations employees, contractors, businesses, and services.