Ebor BESS 

A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a modular facility that stores energy—typically from wind and solar—and discharges when needed. It includes battery units, inverters, and a connection to the local electricity network. BESS helps improve the reliability of the electricity grid by charging when there is excess supply and discharging when there is a shortage and prices are high.

As coal-fired power stations retire, batteries provide on-demand energy to stabilise the grid when wind or solar power is unavailable. They help integrate renewable energy, lower emissions, and provide backup supply. The Ebor BESS will also create jobs and reduce wholesale electricity costs during peak demand periods.

Bridge Energy is an Australian developer focused on developing flexible generation projects that support the reliability of the electricity grid as coal generators retire. We work closely with local communities to ensure long-term shared benefits. Our team has extensive experience in delivering large-scale energy projects across Australia.

BESS provides firm, on-demand energy that complements wind and solar generation, enabling more renewables to be used reliably on Australia’s electricity grid. BESS charge during excess supply of wind and solar and discharge when there is a shortage of supply.

Yes – the BESS will stabilise the grid and respond instantly to prevent outages. In future, it may provide emergency backup to the local area, depending on network agreements and technical configurations.

Yes – we will prioritise local contractors and consultants. As part of the procurement process, we will keep potential suppliers updated of upcoming tenders. If you’re interested in being involved, please contact us.

The BESS improves local grid reliability, supports clean energy, and reduces emissions. It will create local jobs, offer business opportunities, and fund community initiatives through a community benefit fund.

Traffic will increase during construction due to equipment deliveries. A Traffic Management Plan will be implemented, and any road wear will be repaired. Once operational, traffic will be minimal - around two additional light vehicle movements per week.

The system incorporates advanced fire safety technology, including sealed units, suppression systems, and remote monitoring. We also collaborate with local fire services to develop emergency response plans and maintain firebreaks and other bushfire mitigation features. ​ A key mitigation for this project is a setback of at least 10m from the nearest trees on the site.

Some noise may be generated by fans and cooling systems; however, all operations will comply with applicable noise regulations. Ebor BESS has been carefully sited away from sensitive areas, and a Noise Impact Assessment is undertaken to identify and apply mitigation measures where required. This assessment will be carried out in late 2025 and we will consult with the community on the outcomes.

The battery system is monitored 24/7, and any issues are managed by our technical team. The BESS can be shut down remotely if required. We will have emergency response plans in place for unlikely scenarios.

Yes – we conduct pre-construction soil and groundwater assessments and post-project testing. Monitoring continues throughout the project to ensure any risks are managed.

Concerns include fire risk, leaks, noise, and waste. We address these with safety systems, containment, quiet operation, end-of-life recycling plans, and regular communication with the community.

Ebor BESS has been specifically sited on cleared land with little biodiversity value. If any minor clearing is required, it will be offset through biodiversity enhancement initiatives.

The site includes bunding, sealed surfaces, and drainage to contain spills or runoff. Firewater is contained on-site, and emergency plans are approved by relevant NSW authorities.

All equipment will be removed and the site will be returned to its original (or better) condition. This includes reinstating topsoil, replanting vegetation, and meeting NSW planning rehabilitation standards.

The BESS will operate for at least 25 years with minimal daily impact and no permanent staff on-site. All infrastructure will be removed, and the land fully rehabilitated at the end of the project. The current operational footprint is estimated at less than 8 hectares, with detailed design to be finalised during the development planning process.

Construction will take approximately 12 months once approvals and equipment are in place. Work will occur during standard daytime hours to minimise impact on the local community.

The BESS will occupy less than 8 hectares of already cleared land. The design is compact and optimised to minimise land use.