Hazeldean BESS

Please contact the hazeldean@enervest.com.au email address for specific queries or to subscribe to project updates.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Please contact Enervest via hazeldean@enervest.com.au or go to the Local Supplier Register on our website to register your interest.

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.