EnergyAustratia recognises that the proposed site for the Mt Piper battery energy storage system is on the traditional Country of the Wiradjuri peoples and respects and acknowledges their continued connection to Country and culture.

About the Mt Piper Battery Energy Storage System

The Mt Piper BESS proposed to utilise nearby, existing electricity infrastructure to develop a grid-scale battery with a capacity to dispatch up to 500 MW of power to the electricity network over a duration of up to four hours.

BESS is an energy storage system that can capture energy from multiple different sources, accumulate that energy, and store it for later use. Energy is discharged from the battery to meet demand when needed. Lithium is one of the leading materials used in grid scale battery projects due to its light weight, durability, and low maintenance needs; however, the final battery composition for this project is yet to be determined.

Building a BESS adjacent to the Mt Piper power station (within existing EnergyAustralia landholdings) is anticipated to have low environmental and social impacts. The project will also avoid the need to construct lengthy new overhead power lines across private land due to its proximity to existing network infrastructure.

 

Ground view - Artist impression of the proposed Mt Piper BESS

Overview
We are progressing the development of a new Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) adjacent to our existing Mt Piper Power Station near Lithgow, NSW — a key step in supporting Australia’s clean energy transition.

Following a detailed environmental assessment and public exhibition, the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) granted planning approval in mid-2024. Mt Piper BESS has secured a Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS) agreement – a significant milestone in strengthening energy reliability and flexibility across the National Electricity Market. The CIS recognises the project’s vital role in providing reliable, dispatchable energy to support the continued growth of renewable generation in Australia.

Supporting the Energy Transition
Located in Lithgow adjacent to the Mt Piper Power Station, the Mt Piper BESS will:

  •  Enhance grid stability by storing and dispatching electricity as needed
  •  Complement renewable generation by providing firm capacity
  • Contribute to national energy reliability and security

Delivering Local Benefits
Pending a Final Investment Decision anticipated in mid-2026, the project is expected to deliver significant benefits for the Lithgow community, including:

  • Around 200 construction jobs, with a strong focus on local participation — targeting 30% local employment, including apprenticeships and traineeships to help grow future skills in the energy sector
  • $6.4 million in Community Benefit Sharing, with the majority directed to First Nations initiatives, ensuring inclusive and lasting outcomes
  • $1 million Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) with Lithgow City Council, supporting local infrastructure and economic development

The awarding of the CIS agreement reflects strong confidence in the Mt Piper BESS and its contribution to both regional development and the future of Australia’s energy system. We look forward to continued collaboration with government, industry, and the local community as the project moves toward delivery.

STEM Schools Program
We are proudly supporting the Mt Piper Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Schools Program—an initiative that has brought interactive science and energy education to over 1,000 students across nine schools in the Lithgow region during May and June 2025.

This program introduces students to the principles of electricity generation, storage, and use—while also connecting them with the real-world development of the Mt Piper BESS, located just a short distance from their schools.

Through hands-on activities like building simple circuits, designing energy-efficient homes, and exploring renewable energy technologies, students are engaging directly with the energy transition in a way that is both educational and inspiring.

This initiative is not only fostering interest in STEM—it’s strengthening local ties to the clean energy future and empowering young people to see their place in it.

Thank you to the dedicated educators, schools, and community partners who helped bring this program to life. 

Next steps

EnergyAustralia will continue with planning for the construction of the project with a final investment decision expected in mid-2026.

For more information on the Mt. Piper BESS, please contact us on:
 

Email : community@EnergyAustralia.com.au
Phone: 1800 574 947
Postal Address: EnergyAustralia NSW Pty Ltd, 350 Boulder Road, Portland NSW 2847.