The 125 MW / 1,000 MWh Stoney Creek Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), owned by Energy Vault and developed by Enervest, has secured NSW Government planning approval, advancing a major electricity storage project with long-term commitments to the local community.
Designed to provide eight-hours of dispatchable storage, this large-scale battery will play a crucial role in integrating both traditional and renewable energy sources into the grid, storing energy when it’s plentiful and releasing it at times of peak demand to strengthen the reliability of the NSW electricity system.
Approval to the development application marks a significant milestone in the partnership between Enervest and Energy Vault, combining Enervest’s project development expertise and established local relationships with Energy Vault’s experience in delivering and operating energy storage infrastructure.
Located on Stoney Creek Road near Narrabri, NSW, the BESS will connect to Transgrid’s existing Narrabri substation, adjacent to the development. The site was carefully selected following a thorough assessment and evaluation of a range of factors to ensure the site meets technical, environmental, and community needs effectively.
Stoney Creek is supported by a 14-year Long-Term Energy Service Agreement (LTESA) awarded through AEMO Services Limited under the New South Wales Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap.
For Narrabri and the surrounding region, the project is designed to create opportunities for local businesses and workers, alongside sustained investment in community priorities. Commitments include a $420,000 Community Development Fund and $1.05 million in Indigenous Services Support over 14 years, with funding priorities to be shaped with local councils, Traditional Owners and community groups.
The project also has commitments to apprenticeships, training and First Nations employment and business participation, which are intended to help people in the region share in the project’s economic benefits.
Site works and mobilisation are expected to commence in Q4 2026, with commercial operations beginning in the first half of 2028.
Ross Warby, Chief Executive Officer, Enervest:
Stoney Creek started as an idea on a piece of farmland outside Narrabri. We’ve taken this from concept, through early development works and, ultimately, to an approved development working with federal, state and local stakeholders, and the Narrabri community.
Achieving planning approval is a significant milestone for Enervest and Energy Vault. Energy Vault is a valued partner, bringing global expertise and a shared vision for delivering high-quality energy infrastructure that strengthens Australia’s electricity system and creates lasting value for the Narrabri community.
We thank the NSW Government for its timely decision and its work to improve planning controls for battery storage. Clear planning pathways help bring forward investment in the infrastructure NSW needs for a reliable electricity supply. We also acknowledge AEMO Services for its leadership in supporting long-duration storage.
Narrabri Shire Council’s constructive approach and support for the project have been greatly appreciated. We also thank the Gomeroi people, the Narrabri Local Aboriginal Land Council, and local community. Their willingness to share local knowledge and priorities is invaluable as we continue to develop the project.
We want the Narrabri community to see lasting value from Stoney Creek, through opportunities for local businesses, skills development and investment in initiatives that matter to them. We remain committed to listening, respecting cultural values and keeping the community informed as the project progresses.
Media enquiries
Anna Warby
Brand & Communications Lead
anna.warby@enervest.com.au
+61476168556
