This flagship SIPS project will unlock latent transfer capacity in the existing transmission system, help integrate renewable energy, and maintain grid reliability by acting as a ‘shock absorber’ if disruptions such as lightning strikes or bushfires interrupt the flow of electricity. The proposed WSB Project will ensure Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong have access to more energy from existing generators while reducing the risk of power disruptions.

“Powin’s proven ability to deploy energy storage systems at scale coupled with EKS Energy’s unrivalled power conversion system, plant controller and systems engineering capabilities have made this an easy decision to select Powin as our technology partner,” said Nick Carter, Akaysha Energy’s Managing Director. “Together, Powin and EKS are one of few companies best positioned to meet the Australian grid operators’ high standards of performance as their vertically integrated platform combining the hardware and software controls allows for unparalleled response time and grid compliance.”

“We are honoured to have been selected by Akaysha to deliver the most powerful battery in the world,” added Geoff Brown, CEO of Powin. “This is a pivotal moment for the industry as we begin to replace carbon emitting power plants, with cleaner, more efficient, and fast responding energy storage systems.”

Deemed as critical state significant infrastructure (CSSI) by the NSW Government, the WSB is proposed to be located 100 km north of Sydney at the former 1400 MW Munmorah coal-fired power station. Pending approval, construction will begin in 2023 and is expected to be completed by mid-2025.

The WSB is independent of the 1.7 GWh supply agreement between Akaysha and Powin that was announced back in August 2022, reinforcing the importance energy storage has for the Australian energy market.