Penrith’s large-scale battery to revolutionise renewable energy infrastructure
To support the increase of renewable energy in the electricity network, Ausconnex, part of the Endeavour Energy Group, plan to deliver large grid scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) across Greater Western Sydney. This initiative will support the NSW Government’s objective of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Planned Battery Energy Storage System in Penrith
Ausconnex is proposing a high voltage (HV) BESS and a medium voltage (MV) BESS, both of which will be located adjacent to the existing substation at 2235-2249 Castlereagh Road, Penrith. A BESS is a type of energy storage that captures energy from renewable and non-renewable sources and uses batteries to store and distribute electricity.
Having the BESS located adjacent to the existing transmission substation minimises environmental impacts by colocating energy transmission and energy storage infrastructure and maximises land use efficiency.
The proposed MV BESS will have capacity to supply up to 5 megawatts (MW) of power and store up to 10MWh (megawatts hour) of energy. The proposed HV BESS, in comparison, will have a capacity to supply up to 100 megawatts of power and store 200MWh of energy.
Regulatory and environmental approvals
The proposed HV BESS and MV BESS require separate planning and environmental approval processes due to their development classifications.
As a State Significant Development (SSD), the proposed HV BESS requires an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) lodged to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI), and approval to be determined by the NSW Planning Minister.The EIS for the Penrith HV BESS was lodged to DPHI in October 2025.
The MV BESS, classified as a Regionally Significant Development, will follow a Development Assessment (DA) approval process overseen by Penrith City Council and determined by the Sydney Western City Planning Panel. The DA for the MV BESS was submitted to Council in May 2025.
HV BESS – public exhibition of the EIS
As part of the planning approval process, the EIS is placed on public exhibition for at least 28 days. The public exhibition period provides the community an opportunity to read the EIS document, seek clarification on content and provide feedback directly to the DPHI via formal submission on the Penrith HV BESS Major Projects Portal.
The DPHI determines the time period the EIS must be placed on public exhibition. The Penrith HV BESS public exhibition period commenced on Tuesday 2 December 2025. Submissions must be received by the DPHI before midnight on Wednesday 21 January 2026.
Ausconnex acknowledges the collective sentiment of submissions received are used by DPHI to guide the final determination, as well as any conditions of approval for the project.
The Ausconnex project team will be available to any interested stakeholders and community members in the lead up to and during the EIS public exhibition to provide clarifications on any information included in the EIS.
An EIS Guide has been prepared to provide further information on the Penrith HV BESS, the EIS, and how to lodge a submission to DPHI during the public exhibition period.
The Penrith HV BESS EIS planning pathway
MV BESS – upcoming Panel determination
Since submission of the DA for the MV BESS to Penrith City Council, Ausconnex is awaiting determination from the Sydney Western City Planning Panel.
Next steps (pending approvals)
Pending approvals from the relevant State and Planning authorities, construction of the HV BESS and MV BESS is expected to begin in late 2026 and be completed by 2028.
MV BESS – upcoming Panel determination
Since submission of the DA for the MV BESS to Penrith City Council, Ausconnex is awaiting determination from the Sydney Western City Planning Panel.
Next steps (pending approvals)
Pending approvals from the relevant State and Planning authorities, construction of the HV BESS and MV BESS is expected to begin in late 2026 and be completed by 2028.
Ausconnex acknowledges the collective sentiment of submissions received are used by DPHI to guide the final determination, as well as any conditions of approval for the project.
The Ausconnex project team will be available to any interested stakeholders and community members in the lead up to and during the EIS public exhibition to provide clarifications on any information included in the EIS.
An EIS Guide has been prepared to provide further information on the Penrith HV BESS, the EIS, and how to lodge a submission to DPHI during the public exhibition period.
Join us at a community information session
The project team invite you to join us at an in-person community information session we are hosting in the local area. The community information session will be drop-in style and the project team will be available to speak with you about the EIS and answer any questions you may have.
Location: Thornton Community Centre, 61 Lord Sheffield Drive, Penrith
Date and time: Wednesday 10 December, 5PM – 7PM
If you are unable to join us in-person, you are welcome to call us on 1800 955 224 or email us at batteries@ausconnex.com.au.
Have your say – how to lodge a submission
You must lodge a submission before the close of exhibition on Wednesday 21 January 2026. You can make a submission online through the Major Projects Hub on the NSW Planning Portal.
- Search for the “Penrith HV Battery Energy Storage System” project
[https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects/penrith-hv-batteryenergy-storage-system] - Click “make a submission”
- Select whether you will be making a personal submission or on behalf of an organisation
- Disclose any reportable political donations
- Decide whether to include your personal information in your submission
- Make a brief statement on whether you support or object the proposal
- Fill in the online submission form. Your submission can be either typed or uploaded as a pdf
- Agree to the terms and conditions and click submit.
For additional information on how to make a submission, please visit: https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/have-your-say
BESS stands for Battery Energy Storage System, as it consists of one or more batteries that store electrical energy for use at a later time. This stored energy can then be drawn upon as needed, to meet various demands for power.
The proposed BESS will provide localised energy supply, support the growing demand in energy resources, and;
- Provide reliable power supply to customers now and in the future;
- Improve service reliability and provide grid support by reducing the risk of power disruptions;
- Support the energy network benefiting customers and enabling improved grid resiliency and;
- Enhance the energy sustainability ecosystem by storing excess solar generation.
A BESS, which generally looks like a set of shipping containers that are about three metres high, is comprised of four key components:
- Battery packs – a set of modules that turn chemical energy into electricity, which, in turn, make up the battery pack.
- Battery management system – BMS: Which ensures the safety of the battery system by monitoring and measuring the condition of the modules.
- Inverter or power conversion system – PCS: Which shifts the direct current (DC) generated by the batteries to alternating current (AC) that goes into the electricity grid and vice versa, allowing for charging and discharging.
- Balance of Plant – BoP: Which is the electrical equipment enabling connecting the BESS to the grid including transformers, switchgear and cables.
The BESS proposed at Penrith may be partially visible from the street, however, the surrounding industrial and other existing built structures and vegetation screening would limit visibility of the proposed infrastructure.
Penrith BESS photomontages
Photomontages are computer generated images that provide an example of what the project may look like when complete. The Ausconnex project team creates them by overlaying a 3D model of the proposed BESS development onto photographs from the surrounding areas to the project.
Please note, the photomontages are based on the concept design as at late 2025 and are subject to change. Final project design will be determined during the detailed design phase, commencing early 2026.
View the photomontages below:
Photomontage: View from Museum Drive
Photomontage: View from Thornton Drive
- Grid reliability and stabilisation – the BESS can absorb or release electrical power almost instantly, providing valuable services in balancing power supply and demand.
- Renewable energy integration – a BESS can store excess energy generated from renewable sources like solar during periods of low demand and release it during peak demand times. Ensuring a continuous and reliable supply of renewable energy even when the sun isn’t shining.
- Flexibility to dispatch energy – During natural disasters or heat waves when the grid is under stress, the BESS will be able to provide grid support, enhancing resilience to ensure the power stays on.
- Cost efficiencies – by discharging stored energy during peak demand periods, the BESS can help reduce the need for expensive peaking power plants, leading to potential cost savings for consumers on their power bills.
- Environmental benefits – by integrating renewable energy more effectively and decreasing dependence on fossil fuel-based peaking plants, BESS contributes to lower carbon emissions and a cleaner environment.
What is a BESS?
A Battery Energy Storage System – BESS – is an advanced technology that captures, stores and distributes energy from both renewable energy such as solar and wind, and non-renewable sources, making it available when needed. It supports the electricity grid by providing a reliable, efficient power supply.
What are the benefits of a BESS?
- Delivers a reliable power supply
- Improves service reliability and delivers grid support by reducing the risk of power disruptions
- Enhances grid efficiency and provides support to the grid during peak demand
- Enhances energy sustainability by storing excess solar energy for use when it’s needed
Why are we proposing a BESS in Penrith?
Ausconnex, part of the Endeavour Energy Group, is planning to build a large BESS in Penrith as part of its commitment to renewable energy infrastructure. Ausconnex is proposing a High Voltage (HV) and a Medium Voltage (MV) BESS at the substation on Castlereagh Road, Penrith, leasing the land from Endeavour Energy. Having the BESS located adjacent to the existing transmission substation minimises environmental impacts by co-locating energy transmission and storage infrastructure while maximising land use. Both the HV BESS and MV BESS will store energy for metropolitan Sydney and beyond, supplying the National Electricity Market (NEM) during peak demand times and support the local network around Penrith, when required.
When will it be built?
Both the MV and HV BESS have unique timelines and requirements for construction. They also need different planning approvals: the MV BESS will go through a Development Application (DA) with Penrith Council, while the HV BESS will follow a State Significant Development (SSD) process set by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI). This process requires an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which looks at environmental impacts and how to reduce them. Ausconnex is involving the community and other stakeholders throughout this process. Building both the MV and HV BESS will take about 18 months.
- HV BESS: Planning and design should be completed by mid to late-2025, with construction starting in 2026.
- MV BESS: Planning and design should be completed by mid to late-2025, with construction also starting in late 2026.
Will the BESS generate an electric and magnetic field?
Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) are created whenever there is a difference in voltage (which forms electric fields) or when electricity flows through wires or devices (which forms magnetic fields). Construction of the BESS will follow strict Australian safety standards and guidelines, ensuring it operates safely and effectively. The EMF levels are expected to be very low and within safe limits.
To further ensure safety, we will conduct detailed assessments of the potential impacts on nearby areas and sensitive locations as part of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). This assessment will help us understand and mitigate any possible risks related to EMF exposure.
What are the possible fire risks for grid-scale batteries?
The design and installation of the BESS will follow Australian safety standards and comply with the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2025. An advanced Battery Management System will ensure operation is within safe limits and will be supported by an array of sensors and fire suppression systems to reduce fire risks. Full scale fire testing will be completed to ensure adequate separation between the BESS and other infrastructure. Fire & Rescue NSW will be engaged as part of developing an appropriate emergency response plan to a fire.
How much noise will the BESS generate once operational?
Once the BESS is up and running, it will meet all industry noise standards. The sound you might hear will come from normal day-to-day operation and maintenance. We’ve undertaken a Noise and Vibration Assessment which includes recommendations to reduce noise, and we’ll put measures in place to reduce impacts to the community.
Will there be a lot of noise and dust during construction?
Construction will take place on weekdays from 7am to 6pm and on Saturdays from 8am to 1pm. We’re currently assessing the noise levels from equipment and activities during construction. If the assessment shows that noise reduction measures are needed, we’ll put measures in place to help minimise any impact in the area.
Will construction take place at night?
We’ll be working during regular hours (Monday to Friday from 7am to 6pm and Saturdays from 8am to 1pm) to build the BESS. During construction, we’ll keep noise levels down as much as possible.
Will there be many heavy vehicle movements during construction?
Building the BESS will involve some heavy vehicle movements around the site. Other materials, plants, and equipment might also need heavy vehicles for delivery. Once operational, the BESS will need very little maintenance, so traffic impacts will be minimal. Before construction starts, a traffic assessment report and an application to Council will be needed if there are plans for road closures or pathway closures. During construction, traffic impacts will be managed with a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) or a Traffic Management Plan (TMP).
I have solar on my roof, how will the BESS affect my usage and what I give back to the grid?
If you have solar on your roof, any excess energy created will continue to feed back into the grid, which will include the medium voltage (MV) BESS at the Penrith Zone substation. The energy stored at the MV BESS will be used to discharge energy back into the network when demand is needed.
Fact Sheets
Community meeting for the Penrith HV and MV BESS
Email: batteries@ausconnex.com.au or Phone: 1800 955 224
Acknowledgement of Country
Ausconnex acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country where we work – the people of the Dharug, Wiradjuri, Dharawal, Gundungarra and Yuin nations – and recognises their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respect to them, their cultures, and to the Elders past, present and emerging.Email: batteries@ausconnex.com.au
Phone: 1800 955 224.
ABN: 39 232 846 628
