Battery Energy Storage System

Attributes

When assessing land for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), many of the same principles apply as for solar and wind projects, though without reliance on wind speed or solar irradiance. BESS facilities require open land to accommodate battery containers, inverters, transformers and associated infrastructure, with flat or gently sloping terrain preferred to support efficient construction and long-term operation. Land requirements vary by project capacity and configuration, typically ranging from several hectares depending on scale.

Proximity to existing transmission infrastructure is critical to enable efficient grid integration, minimise connection costs and reduce development risk. Consideration is also given to future transmission upgrades and Renewable Energy Zones to ensure long-term viability. While BESS projects generally have a lower environmental footprint than wind farms, early environmental assessment remains essential to manage exclusion zones, regulatory requirements and ecological impacts. Adequate road access is required to support construction and ongoing maintenance activities. Financial viability is assessed through a detailed understanding of market dynamics, revenue pathways, costs and regulatory frameworks. As with solar and wind, BESS projects are well suited to underutilised or lower-productivity land, allowing agricultural operations to continue alongside the infrastructure.

Jim and Jo are farming landholders progressing a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in development at Widgee Creek. Like many farming families, they are seeking to diversify income and create long-term security while maintaining productive cattle operations. The project has been shaped to coexist with day-to-day farming, with planned upgrades to internal access roads, firebreaks and ongoing site maintenance expected to deliver practical on-farm benefits. Their experience progressing Widgee Creek BESS underpins Ag Energy Australia’s Farmers for Farmers philosophy, demonstrating how renewable energy projects can be developed in partnership with landowners to deliver aligned, long-term outcomes.

What we look for

Location and Land Size: BESS sites require flat, open land to accommodate battery containers and supporting infrastructure. While not dependent on wind or solar resource, location remains critical. BESS projects are well suited to unproductive land and can be attractive for landholders with multiple parcels. Depending on project capacity, a minimum land area of approximately 2 hectares (≈5 acres) is typically required.

Connection Infrastructure: Proximity to existing substation infrastructure is essential to enable efficient grid connection and minimise cost and complexity, consistent with other utility-scale renewable projects.

Environmental Considerations: Given the relatively small footprint of BESS facilities, exclusion zones and environmental constraints are typically managed outside the development footprint wherever possible.

Access and Infrastructure: Robust road access is essential to support the transport and installation of large, heavy battery equipment during construction, as well as ongoing maintenance activities.