Overview
BayWa r.e. is proposing to develop and build the Hughes Road Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Wurdong Heights near Gladstone.
The project will include:
- Installation of battery units, inverters, cooling systems, and other equipment
- Building on-site office, maintenance and storage facilities
- Establishing an underground line connecting to the existing Wurdong Substation
A 32 m wide Asset Protection Zone (APZ) will be established and maintained around the battery storage infrastructure to ensure protection from bushfire in the surrounding vegetation and to allow access to
firefighting personnel in the event of fire.
Key facts:
- Technology: Lithium-ion battery storage system
- Capacity: Approximately 200 MW / 800 MWh
- Timing: Construction is scheduled to begin in late 2025
- Operations: Expected to commence in 2027
- Status: Under development
Project location
The project site is to be located at Wurdong Heights, around 12km south-west of Gladstone. The facility is planned to be placed centrally within one freehold block with access to be provided from Hughes Road. The placement of the facility on the land utilises natural topography and vegetation to limit visual impact on surroundings. The site was chosen for its close proximity to an existing substation where it will connect to the national grid network.
Benefits for the region
The Hughes Road BESS will provide grid stability in Gladstone and the broader network. It will also support renewable energy projects by storing renewable energy and supplying it when needed.
Other benefits include:
- Local jobs during construction and operation
- Flow-on economic benefits for local businesses
- Economic diversification for the Gladstone region
- Community benefit sharing initiatives
Community engagement
BayWa r.e. have met extensively with landholders, Council, state government and First Nations groups. We will continue to engage with neighbours and other stakeholders as the project matures.
More information about the community benefit sharing program will be shared as the project moves closer to construction.
Next steps
BayWa r.e. is currently developing this project.
We anticipate the project will be considered for approval by the Gladstone Regional Council in 2025.
Contact us
If you have any questions about the project or would like to join our mailing list for updates on this project, email us at info(at)baywa-re.com.au.
