ACT Government and Eku Energy Celebrate Ground-Breaking Ceremony for the 250 MW/500 MWh Williamsdale Battery Energy Storage System and announce Community Grants Program

The ACT Government and Eku Energy announced that construction has commenced for the Williamsdale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at a sod turning ceremony today. The 250 MW / 500 MWh Williamsdale BESS will support the uptake of renewable energy in the ACT and deliver energy security and reliability. It is expected to be operational in 2026 and will be able to store enough renewable energy to power one-third of Canberra for two hours during peak demand periods.

The Williamsdale BESS is part of the ACT Government’s Big Canberra Battery project and will play a critical role in supporting the ACT’s transition to renewable energy and net-zero emissions by 2045. Construction of the project will create approximately 200 jobs.

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.”

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 including AEMO, Evoenergy and Tesla Energy. We are 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.”

The Williamsdale BESS will create a range of economic, social, and environmental benefits for local communities, especially for Tuggeranong residents, businesses and community organisations.

In collaboration with local stakeholders, Eku Energy has established the Williamsdale BESS Community Grants Program. The A$500,000 community fund will be available to eligible local non-profit organisations by application. The program will focus on fostering employment and education, social connectedness and environment initiatives for the community, with eligibility details available at ekuenergy.com/williamsdale.

Eku Energy has committed an additional A$500,000 to the Australian National University’s Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program. This funding will support research and development activities that enhance the future uptake and integration of battery storage technologies, helping to accelerate the ACT’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

Quote attributable to Heather Logie, Co-Director ANU Centre for Energy Systems and Head, Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program at Australian National University:

"The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program at ANU is a critical contributor to Australia’s energy security. Research funding in this area helps ensure we remain at the forefront of advancing technology for a clean energy future. These initiatives reflect Eku Energy’s commitment to delivering shared benefits that go beyond the project itself, fostering long-term value for Canberrans and Australia."

The Williamsdale BESS is a significant step forward in achieving the ACT’s net-zero emissions target, ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for generations to come.

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View more information on the Williamsdale Community Grants Program