Essential Energy is putting a call out for battery operators, owner-operators and investors looking for an opportunity to build, own and operate BESS (battery energy storage systems) that can be connected directly to its zone substations.

The utility said energy storage is key to managing the power system as more localised generation comes into the grid, with more of it needed at all levels – from network-scale systems to pole-mounted neighbourhood systems.

Those with a proven track record of BESS deployment and an understanding of the communities in regional, rural, and remote New South Wales are invited to submit an expression of interest for a development licence for the installation and operation of batteries.

With rooftop solar generation increasing across the electricity grid, Essential Energy said it needs to capture and store the excess energy so it can be used when it is needed.

Energy storage systems not only play a unique role in empowering communities to share and use energy for a better tomorrow, but they are also an innovative way to make new energy solutions available, harness rooftop solar and support regional New South Wales through the energy transition.

The project is just one of several energy storage solutions Essential Energy is market testing to expedite the infrastructure needed to support the balance of energy generation and usage within communities.