Hazeldean BESS
Hazeldean is one of several Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects being developed by Enervest in Queensland.
These projects use innovative technology to store excess electricity for later release into the grid. Large-scale batteries play a crucial role in the integration of renewable energy sources to the grid, which results in enhanced network stability, economic generation and increased environmental sustainability.
Projects such as Hazeldean support the Queensland State Government’s Renewable Energy Target (QRET) of 70% by 2032.
Project Overview
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The proposed Hazeldean BESS will be located in the Somerset Regional Council area, approximately 100 kilometres northwest of Brisbane.
The BESS will include an 800-megawatt (MW) battery, with a total storage capacity of up to 1600 megawatt hours (MWh). It will connect to an existing 275 kV Powerlink transmission line via a new substation to be developed onsite.
The proposed Hazeldean BESS is currently in the development and approvals phase. A Development Application has been submitted and Enervest are continuing to work with Somerset Council to progress the application. We have also met with the Jinibara People, the Traditional Owners of the land on which the project will be constructed, and will work with them throughout development of the project.
We will continue to keep the community and stakeholders up to date with the project as it progresses, including opportunities to discuss the proposal in person.
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Analysis and Planning
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Development Approval
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Grid Connection Approval
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Construction
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Operate & Maintain
- Development commencement
- 01/01/2024
- Expected completion
- 01/01/2024
- Stage description
- Development commencement
- April 27, 2023
- Expected completion
- June 1, 2025
- Stage description
Development Approval Pending, Community Engagement Underway, Network Connection inquiry.
We have been taking the time to thoroughly review and respond to the valuable submissions that were received during the public display period.
This feedback has informed further studies and an updated design, and we are committed to ensuring that we address the concerns raised through the DA process.
We are working towards submitting the full package of additional information to council in early March 2025, and will make further summary information available to the community then too.
- Development commencement
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- Expected completion
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- Stage description
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- Development commencement
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- Expected completion
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- Stage description
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- Development commencement
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- Expected completion
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- Stage description
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Community Engagement
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Enervest values engaging, supporting and investing in its local communities.
Stay informed by registering for project updates to receive the latest project information and updates on engagement activities, by completing the Get In Touch form below.
Frequently Asked Questions – Hazeldean BESS
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How can I find out more about the project?
Please contact the hazeldean@enervest.com.au email address for specific queries or to subscribe to project updates. You can also visit our website at https://enervest.com.au/project/hazeldean/
What is a BESS?A battery energy storage system (BESS) stores electrical energy in batteries for later use, providing backup power, grid stabilization, and integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Large batteries work by storing excess electricity supply during low demand periods and delivering power back to the grid during peak times. This helps to shore- up the intermittent supply of renewable energy (wind and solar), reducing blackouts and stabilising power prices.
Who owns the BESS? / Who is Enervest?Enervest is an Australian-owned and operated company founded in 2008 and specialising in the design, construction and operation of energy generation and storage assets. They are currently developing 21 battery projects across eastern Australia, including the Hazeldean BESS.
What will the BESS look like?A BESS is typically comprised of arrays (or groups) of battery modules that are housed in containers or enclosures, connected to power conversion systems and control equipment. BESS facilities are typically containerised, modular systems that can be configured based on specific site and capacity requirements. The project planning phase will consider whether the BESS facilities can be screened (by either vegetative or artificial means) to minimise any potential visual impacts, if required.
How tall will the on-site structures be?Typically, the BESS units are housed in shipping containers that are approximately 6m long, 2.5m wide and 3-3.5m high. The switchgear buildings and the main transformers are around 6m and 7m high respectively.
How long will the BESS operate?It is expected that the BESS facility will operate for at least 40 years and, depending on the selected technology components, may be replaced and/or upgraded to extend this timeframe.
What is the battery recycling and decommissioning plan?Following the end of their economic life, above ground components would be removed and re-purposed where possible, and the land rehabilitated and recontoured, if and as required. Battery recycling and decommissioning involves safely extracting reusable materials from spent batteries, minimizing environmental impact, and disposing of hazardous components responsibly, often through specialized recycling facilities or programs.
How much noise will the BESS create?Construction noise levels will be kept in line with relevant legislation, with noise generating activities scheduled to occur during the day. Operational BESS facilities have the potential to generate some sound associated with the cooling fans required to regulate the operating temperature of individual battery cells. Once operating, the BESS will be required to meet strict noise requirements and comply with the relevant noise standards and/or guidelines.
How long will construction last?Construction of the BESS is expected to take between twelve and eighteen months. There are long lead items that might affect the project’s construction schedule, and we will provide updates in the lead up to and during construction.
What environmental studies will you undertake?An Environment and Ecology Assessment, taking into consideration the occurrence of matters of national environmental significance (MNES) has been undertaken with relevant findings provided to Somerset Regional Council as part of the Development Application. An Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) self-assessment study has also been undertaken with a not controlled action being a likely outcome.
The Development Application is accompanied by several environmental impact studies such as:
- Biodiversity
- Cultural heritage
- Noise and vibration
- Traffic impact assessment
- Ground/surface water and flood risk
- Waste management
How will you manage environmental impacts during construction?A Construction Management Plan will be prepared prior to construction starting. During construction, some of the key construction impacts may include:
- Traffic: Construction traffic will be managed through a Traffic Management Plan (TMP)
- Noise: Construction and operational noise will meet Queensland EPA requirements. Increased noise will be managed by putting in place measures to limit the impact on local residents as much as possible. This may include scheduling works so that noisier activities occur at times when they will have the least impact.
- Social and economic: During construction, you may find more people and vehicles around town and on the roads. This additional temporary workforce will assist in providing local towns an economic boost through spending on accommodation, food and local goods and services.
How will you manage bushfire risks during operation of the BESS?The safety of all workers and the local community will always be our priority. We will work with the Rural Fire Service to ensure site design and preparedness meet community and RFS expectations.
The design and installation of the battery system will be undertaken in accordance with relevant Australian Standards, fire safety and emergency services guidelines and will be operated in accordance with the manufacturers requirements. A site operational management plan will be prepared by the service provider detailing information regarding procedures to be implemented in the event of a fire. Key mitigation measures include maintaining a fire break around the facility and having onsite fire water tanks.
How much traffic will the BESS generate during Construction and Operation?During construction it is expected that there will be a peak of up to 80 people on site at any one time with associated traffic, excluding deliveries. During operation it is expected that there will be up to 7 people on site at any one time with the facility sometimes operating remotely with no personnel on site.
How can I have a say on the project?Please contact Enervest via hazeldean@enervest.com.au to have your say or get in touch via the contact form at the bottom of this web page.
How will you work with First Nations groups?Enervest has started early engagement with the Jinibara People Aboriginal Corporation with the intension of working together to deliver this project with a mutually beneficial approach.
How can local businesses or individuals get involved?Please contact Enervest via hazeldean@enervest.com.au or go to the Local Supplier Register on our website to register your interest.
How will the project benefit the local community?A BESS benefits the local community by enhancing grid stability, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and supporting renewable energy integration, which can lead to lower electricity costs, improved energy reliability, and reduced environmental impact, fostering a cleaner and more resilient energy infrastructure.
Similar-sized projects have generated significant investment for local communities throughout construction and operation. and can create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the area. The Hazeldean BESS is expected to create approximately 80 jobs at the peak of construction, plus ongoing roles in monitoring and maintenance.
We are developing a Community Benefits Program in consultation with Council and the community over coming months. We want to hear your ideas about how the Project can contribute to benefits for your community. Please contact Enervest via hazeldean@enervest.com.au to share your ideas, or get in touch via the contact form at the bottom of this web page.
Enervest has been an Australian owned and operated leader in the Australian renewable energy industry since 2008. Enervest specialises in the design, construction and operation of energy generation and storage assets, and is capitalising on its engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) proficiency, extensive industry experience, and market acumen to develop a comprehensive portfolio of BESS assets across all regions within the National Electricity Market (NEM).
Enervest’s approach to governance, due diligence and professionalism coupled with a combined 30 years of history in design, installation and maintenance of renewable energy projects, position Enervest uniquely to continue to lead the industry during the biggest energy transition since the early last century.
Reach out today with any questions about this, or any other, Enervest project.
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