A new wave of grid-scale battery storage projects will help strengthen the stability and reliability of electricity for New South Wales households and businesses, with the launch of PLUS Grid Storage.
PLUS Grid Storage is a separately funded, unregulated entity within the Ausgrid Group, established to build, own and operate a portfolio of grid-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) across Sydney, Newcastle and the Hunter Central Coast.
The first projects will be located at the Steel River Industrial Estate in Newcastle and Homebush in Sydney and will play a critical role in supporting the state’s energy transition by enabling more energy to be stored and delivered when it is needed most.
The first two projects will each deliver 400 megawatt-hours (MWh) of storage capacity, with works expected to begin in Newcastle in July 2026.
An additional six projects are progressing through the NSW planning system.
Ausgrid Executive in Charge of PLUS Grid Storage, Kelly Wood said the program marks a significant step forward for NSW’s energy system.
“Grid-scale batteries are essential to delivering a more reliable and flexible electricity system.
“By storing energy closer to where it is needed, we can make better use of existing infrastructure and reduce the impact on communities and the environment.”
The initial tranche of the PLUS Grid Storage program is expected to provide up to 1 gigawatt (GW) of storage capacity by 2031 - enough to power around 230,000 homes and businesses.
These batteries will:
- Store excess solar and wind energy for later use
- Improve electricity reliability during peak demand and extreme weather
- Deliver faster, localised energy supply
- Reduce pressure on existing infrastructure
- Support long-term affordability for customers.
The program will also support local economies by creating jobs in construction, engineering and the broader energy sector.
“Beyond reliability and affordability, these projects will create skilled jobs and support the growth of the clean energy sector in NSW,”
About PLUS Grid Storage
PLUS Grid Storage was created to deliver grid-scale battery energy storage systems that strengthen the network, improve resilience and enable more renewable energy to power homes and businesses. Our work is guided by safety, integrity and sustainability, supported by transparent engagement with communities, government and industry to ensure projects are delivered responsibly and provide long-term benefits.
PLUS Grid Storage operates independently of Ausgrid’s regulated network business and is funded by its shareholders - the NSW Government, IFM Investors, APG Group and AustralianSuper. This structure ensures compliance with strict energy market regulations, including ring-fencing rules, and maintains a level playing field for all market participants.