The Cook Government has allocated over $1 billion in contracts for the construction of substantial new battery energy storage facilities in Kwinana and Collie, aligning with its pledge to provide cleaner, dependable, and cost-effective energy solutions in Western Australia.
Under these agreements, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) will supply approximately 300 EnerC Plus containerised liquid-cooling battery systems for Kwinana Battery Stage Two, and approximately 650 EnerC Plus systems for Collie. Power Electronics is tasked with delivering 72 inverters for the Kwinana battery and 160 inverters for the Collie battery.
Kwinana Battery Stage Two is set to generate 200 megawatts of power and store 800 megawatt hours of energy, while the Collie battery, the largest in Western Australia, will provide 500 megawatts and offer 2,000 megawatt hours of storage capacity. These batteries will enhance renewable energy integration by storing excess wind and solar power generated during the day and releasing it during periods of high demand.
These contracts represent a crucial component of the Cook Government’s $2.8 billion budget allocation for advancing renewable energy projects in the region.
Premier Roger Cook said: “These contracts, worth more than $1 billion, represent a major and important investment by our Government into WA’s cleaner, reliable and affordable energy future.
“Battery energy storage systems will play a key role in our decarbonisation plans, storing excess renewable energy generated in the day and discharging during times of high demand.
“We’re putting WA on the path to becoming a global green energy superpower, which is good for jobs, good for the environment, and will keep our economy strong into the future.”
Energy Minister Bill Johnston commented: “Contemporary Amperex Technology is a global leader of new energy innovative technologies, providing more than 600 battery units for Kwinana Battery Stage One, which is now storing energy and discharging into the grid.
“Power Electronics is a leading manufacturer of inverters for photovoltaic plants and battery applications and a world leader in energy storage.
“I would like to congratulate Synergy for securing these important partnerships, setting WA apart as a leader in the global energy transition.”
Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns said: “This is an exciting announcement for Collie and the local community, as the town transitions to a cleaner, greener energy future.
“The creation of 500 jobs is a huge boon, as it will have a flow-on effect for residents and local businesses.”