Technology
60 MW BESS AC-coupled standalone
Battery Energy Storage System
Camperdown BESS
60MW Battery storage located on the outskirts of Camperdown in Victoria
Storage Capacity
240MWh
Network Service Provider
Powercor
Project Status
Mid-stage development
Location
Wire Lane, Camperdown, Victoria, Australia Click to view on Maps
Project Overview
Technology Overview
The Camperdown Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project is located approximately 200 km south-west of Melbourne in Victoria’s Corangamite region, within the Corangamite Shire Council. Utilising a strategically selected land parcel of 5.6 acres (2.3 hectares), this advanced energy storage facility is set to significantly strengthen local power infrastructure and enhance regional energy stability. The project will store up to 240 megawatt-hours (MWh) of energy, capable of powering approximately 12,631 average homes annually.
Construction of the Camperdown BESS is anticipated to begin in 2026, incorporating a dedicated 66 kV grid connection to the nearby Camperdown substation, situated approximately 1.1 km away. Network provider Powercor will facilitate effective integration into the existing power grid, ensuring robust operational support services. The project utilises lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery technology, recognised for its safety, efficiency, and longevity, and is planned for an operational lifespan of 40 years. At the end of its operational life, the facility will be decommissioned responsibly, returning the land to its existing use and condition.
Project Development Status
This project is in mid-stage development.
Development
The Camperdown BESS project is advancing through its development phases. Current activities are centred around securing necessary regulatory approvals and conducting critical environmental and technical assessments. Detailed grid studies are being undertaken, maximising the design for optimal system strength, ensuring reliability and effectiveness of the facility within the regional power network.
Connection Agreement
The current agreement is from 2024 to 2026.
Approval by network operator (Powercor) to connect to the power grid.
Project Updates
Recent developments for the Camperdown BESS include ongoing comprehensive environmental and technical studies conducted according to industry best practices. This includes evaluating potential impacts on local biodiversity and implementing strategies to mitigate any identified risks.
Community engagement efforts have commenced, involving one-to-one meetings with local residents, with broader community information sessions planned for later this year. Additionally, ARES has engaged with EMAC, the local Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP), to conduct a site assessment, including walking the land. Collaboration with EMAC will continue throughout the project's development.
Next steps include finalising studies and preparing the site for construction. Construction is scheduled to start in 2026, with an expected duration of approximately 9-12 months until the facility reaches operational status.
The Camperdown BESS project is dedicated to enhancing regional grid stability and facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources. ARES remains committed to transparency and will continue providing regular updates as the project progresses.
Investment in the Corangamite Shire Region
Community Benefit Fund
ARES is establishing a Community Benefit Fund for the Camperdown community and is engaging on what the fund could deliver. Feedback so far has suggested:
- Improved fire services in collaboration with the Victorian Country Fire Association
- Local infrastructure improvements
- Educational and environmental programs
- Community health and wellbeing initiatives
To provide feedback on the Community Benefit Fund contact us via feedback@areservices.com.au
Opportunities for local businesses and workers
ARES encourages local businesses, trades, and service providers to register their interest in the Project. To provide your details for our Local Service Provider Register email us at feedback@areservices.com.au
