The ACT Government in partnership with global energy storage leader Eku Energy, has today celebrated the start of the construction on the Williamsdale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).

Positioned within the Evoenergy distribution network, the start of construction is a significant milestone for the ACT’s commitment to a net-zero future.

The large-scale 250megawatts (MW) battery will store enough renewable energy to power one-third of Canberra for two hours during peak demand, providing long-term energy security for the region.

In a unique revenue-sharing model, the ACT Government will receive a portion of the revenue generated from the Williamsdale BESS’s participation in the National Electricity Market ensuring that financial benefits flow back into the community.

In return, Eku Energy will receive quarterly payments from the Territory over the next 15 years, facilitating long-term sustainability for this partnership. 

The Williamsdale BESS is a ground-breaking initiative and just one part of the ACT Government’s Big Canberra Battery project which will see the delivery of an ecosystem of batteries across the territory.

Through ongoing innovation, adoption of cutting-edge technology and renewable energy solutions, the ACT Government is enhancing energy security, improving grid stability, and providing further resilience to the territory’s energy infrastructure.

The Williamsdale BESS is expected to be operational in early 2026.

For more information on the Big Canberra Battery project visit Everyday Climate Choices.

Quotes attributable to ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr:

The construction of the Williamsdale Battery Energy Storage System is a significant milestone in the ACT's journey toward a more sustainable future. The project highlights the ACT Government’s commitment to innovative, environmentally friendly energy solutions that will power our city for generations to come while shielding our community from energy price volatility.

The ACT Government remains dedicated to ensuring that the ACT remains one of the world's most liveable cities. By investing in projects like the Big Canberra Battery, we're supporting economic growth, generating an ongoing supply of reliable revenue, creating local jobs, and attracting new investment in clean technology.

Our partnership with Eku Energy is a crucial step in the fight against climate change. This initiative is not only a win for our environment and Canberra community but also forms key part of Australia's clean energy future.

Quotes attributable to Suzanne Orr of Minister for Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water:

The construction on the Williamsdale BESS is a pivotal step toward a cleaner future for the ACT. This project will help us store renewable energy when it's most abundant, making our power supply more resilient and sustainable for all Canberrans.

This project demonstrates the ACT Government’s commitment to leading our nation on climate action and delivering tangible benefits to our community by reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and supporting the ACT’s commitment to a cleaner, greener city.

Quote attributable to Daniel Burrows, Chief Executive Officer at Eku Energy: 

Our partnership with the ACT Government on the Williamsdale Battery Energy Storage System reflects Eku Energy’s commitment to advancing clean energy solutions in the region. By bringing together the right expertise and partners, we have successfully moved from concept to construction, further strengthening Canberra’s pathway to a more sustainable energy future.

Quote attributable to Tom Best, Chief Operating Officer at Eku Energy:

Eku Energy is pleased to be delivering on our pipeline of Australian projects together with trusted partners. Working with AEMO, Evoenergy and Tesla Energy throughout the grid connection process has been great. We’re excited to be delivering this project for the Territory with Consolidated Power Projects who share our business philosophy in safety and innovation. Our combined experience will play an important role in the delivery of a critical energy asset that Canberrans can trust to achieve greater energy security.

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