1. Who is PLUS Grid Storage?
PLUS Grid Storage is a specialist energy storage business delivering grid scale battery assets that support Australia’s transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy system.
We plan, build and operate Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) across New South Wales, strengthening the electricity distribution network and enabling more renewable energy to power homes and businesses.
2. Who owns PLUS Grid Storage?
PLUS Grid Storage is a partnership between the NSW Government, IFM Investors, APG Group and AustralianSuper. It is a separate unregulated entity within the Ausgrid Group. It operates independently from Ausgrid’s regulated network business. PLUS Grid Storage is focused on delivering stable and reliable electricity for communities, by storing energy close to where it’s needed, making better use of existing infrastructure and reducing impacts on communities and the environment.
3. What is a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)?
A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a group of large rechargeable batteries, connected to form one very large battery. BESS collects energy and stores it when it is plentiful and then releases it when there is high demand for electricity.
BESS support system stability, improve reliability and enable a cleaner, more flexible electricity grid.
4. Why do we need BESS?
As coal fired power stations retire and renewable generation increases, Australia needs storage capacity to keep the system stable. Locating storage on the distribution network provides fast, flexible support that improves reliability and strengthens performance during periods of high demand.
By storing energy when it is abundant and releasing it when needed, BESS reduce pressure on the network, limit reliance on coal and gas as a back-up source of power, and enable renewable sources to be used more effectively.
5. What are the benefits of BESS?
Grid scale batteries deliver a range of benefits, including:
- Enabling more renewable energy by storing excess solar and wind for use when it’s needed most
- Improving grid stability and resilience during peak demand and extreme weather
- Reducing the need for new transmission lines by supporting the network locally
- Helping keep electricity more affordable over time by easing pressure on the grid
- Creating local construction and engineering jobs in the clean energy sector.
These benefits support state and national renewable energy and emissions reduction targets.
6. What is PLUS Grid Storage aiming to achieve?
Our goal is to deliver more than 1.0 GW of distribution connected battery storage by 2031, strategically located where the network needs support the most.
By leveraging existing infrastructure and prioritising efficient, local and low-impact solutions, we aim to strengthen the electricity system while enabling a sustainable energy future.
7. How does PLUS Grid Storage choose locations for its batteries?
Our storage assets are connected to the distribution network, allowing us to respond quickly to local system needs. We currently manage a growing portfolio of assets across NSW, strategically located to enhance the network in the areas that need it most.
Where possible, we select sites with existing electricity infrastructure, enabling efficient connection to substations and minimising impacts on local communities and the environment.
8. How does PLUS Grid Storage engage with its communities?
We engage early and openly with communities to understand local priorities and ensure our projects respond to social, cultural, environmental and economic contexts.
A key part of this approach is building respectful, long term relationships with First Nations peoples. Our engagement with First Nations communities is grounded in cultural safety, self determination and community leadership. We recognise the diversity of First Nations cultures and connections to Country, and each project seeks to contribute to community defined outcomes developed through meaningful dialogue.
Alongside this, we engage with the broader local community to share information, listen to feedback, and ensure transparency throughout planning, construction and operation.
9. What planning process do PLUS Grid Storage projects go through?
Our projects are assessed through the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) pathway, which applies to major energy infrastructure in NSW.
The SSDA process includes rigorous technical studies, transparent public consultation, and oversight from the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI). This ensures projects are assessed independently and responsibly, with local voices heard and considered.
10. How does PLUS Grid Storage ensure safety and sustainability?
Safety, integrity and sustainability guide everything we do – from early planning and design through to construction and operation. We prioritise responsible delivery, environmental management, and open engagement with communities, councils, governments and industry partners.